Perched up on a hill with a 360-degree view of the town of Tanato is where Heartland Bataan resides.
Just a two hour short drive from Manila, nature rules here: flowers in bloom, bushes, trees, and green vines had overtaken the tree house we called home. Underfoot there’s a paved way of concrete, leading to the garden and to the rest of the homes in the 4 hectare area.
Heartland is a secluded area with a very back-to-nature vibe, but our tree house felt quite luxe and lovely, too. Every now and then, we would feel a little rocking here and there; like we were swaying with nature. From the tree house, you can see Mt. Samat peeking through your bathroom glass walls. Everything’s clear view from up here. It could get scary at first climb but you’ll get used to it for the rest of your stay — hopefully. *wink*
If tree house is not your thing, you should check out the rest of the homes. They have a villa, a few nipa huts, Ifugao houses, a cavehouse, and an aquarium room that is connected to the fish pond. Food is included in your Airbnb payment but you may bring your own and cook in their open area kitchen like we did.
By sundown, you could opt to swim in the pool, discover the Moai statues, exotic animal figures, or ride the swing right over the edge of a cliff wherein you can hear the sound of the gushing river just below.
As the sky gets darker, you could sit at the open space below the tree house, with a a bottle of vodka on your hand, cool wind caressing your face, and the sound of various insects making noises as a backdrop for some much needed catch up session with your friends. It’s the perfect weekend getaway to be in touch with the greeneries and escape the busy city lights of Manila.
