Many travelers flock to the Philippines for its beautiful beaches, amazing dive sites and unique landscapes – now to add to that list is a one-of-a-kind stay at an apiary with unsurpassed ocean views and famed Filipino hospitality. When visiting the Visayas region’s island of Bohol – more aptly known for its peculiar Chocolate Hills (worth looking up if you’ve never heard of them!) – make sure to include a visit to the Bohol Bee Farm on your itinerary.
What started as a small family-run bakery and apiary has now expanded to become a resort with meeting and event space, onsite restaurant and relaxing spa. There are no shortages of things to do while lodging at this unique hotel. An onsite diving school and dive shop comes with equipment rentals for any guests looking to get PADI-certified during their stay or just need a little underwater fun. Hop off the property’s Sun Deck and be right in the warm waters, surrounded by colourful marine life. If you’re not keen on swimming you can also enjoy sports above water with kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Not a fan of getting wet? Have no fear! Explore the property’s vast grounds with an educational farm tour! Sustainable living and local experience are heavily emphasized as guests are taken along route to its herb and vegetable garden where the farm’s restaurant gathers a lot of its daily ingredients. Then head on over to the crafting and production area and learn how the farm helps its employees by teaching them skills to create their own livelihood with handmade crafts which are then sold at their onsite shop. Finally end the tour up close and personal with the star of the show and be let in on a day in the life of a honey bee and the process of cultivating honey for use in so many of the farm’s ongoing operations. The tour also encourages and teaches guests about organic farming and ways to reduce the use of pesticides in your own garden.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite from the day, the farm’s restaurant is something to look forward to with its eclectic menu and experiential flavours. Fresh and organic ingredients from the garden make for super healthy and fresh meals. Alternatively, you can indulge in its farm-inspired dishes such as honey-glazed roasted chicken, pastas made with herb and tomato sauce mixed with fresh buko (also known as young coconut) or spicy honeyed pizza. Fresh seafood is also brought in daily from local fishermen ensuring there is something for everyone. Foodies will love the colourful presentation and fusion of tastes in every bite. Sprinkle that with amazing service topped with a magnificent view of the ocean and you’ve got yourself set-up for a great dining experience!
After your meal, be sure to finish off at the ever-popular ice cream parlour, famous for their signature cone made of cassava – a starchy root similar to taro or potato – making it vegan-friendly with a multitude of ice cream flavours. Choose from local favourites such as pandan (closely related to coconut), ube (purple yam), guyabano (soursop) and salted honey to name a few. The open-air lounge area makes for a great spot to enjoy your dessert.
Not ready to call it a night? Guests can enjoy a social space over a cup of coffee (try the house made corn coffee for something non-traditional), a cold bottle of beer or a tasty cocktail to the tune of your favourite songs at the farm’s Kape Bee and Bar. The night will quickly melt away in the company of great friends and family.
Retire to your cozy quarters and you’ll feel right at home. Filled with comfort, simple décor and wooden accents you’ll feel a release of all pretentions as soon as you enter your room for a truly local feel. There are a variety of room categories that will appeal to families of all sizes, including 2-storey Family Rooms with the option to upgrade to ocean views. Let the sound of the waves lull you to a deep and restful sleep.
Awake the next morning and enjoy a day trip off-site with pick-up right from the hotel. Opt for a tour of the island of Panglao or a country side alternative with lunch on the Loboc River or a fun dolphin watching excursion, all arranged by the front desk staff. Upon your return, end off with a relaxing massage treatment at the farm’s onsite spa – you’ll be left feeling light as a feather after a productive day around town.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out the shop at the Bohol Bee Farm before you leave, where you’ll find all sorts of cool stuff! Most of which are handmade and produced by the farm; choose from delicious baked goods and treats to natural beauty and skin care products. Here you’ll also find seasonings and spreads that are also used in the restaurant’s dishes available for purchase. After a great stay what better way to take a little piece of the experience with you?
For more information on how to book your overnight stay at the Bohol Bee Farm or for help planning your itinerary in the Visayas – contact me, your Lifestyle Travel Planner, here and I’ll be happy to help!
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