Best Nature Staycation Near Manila with Sea of Clouds & Overlooking Views

Best Nature Staycation Near Manila with Sea of Clouds & Overlooking Views

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Treasure Mountain Rizal and Rancho Bernardo ResortManila, the capital of the Philippines, is a central hub for travelers looking to explore the country's top attractions. Aside from a diverse culinary scene, vibrant shopping districts, and entertainment options, the city offers a convenient starting point for those eager to experience the natural wonders of nearby highlands, including the mesmerizing "sea of clouds.”

The term "sea of clouds" refers to a stunning phenomenon where thick clouds create an illusion of an expansive ocean, often observed in elevated areas. You can witness a sea of clouds and mountain views in highlands like Baguio and other destinations in North Luzon, including a hike at Mt. Pulag or a trip to Sagada

Apart from joining Manila tours, staying in top Manila hotels, and flying to other Philippine destinations from Manila airport, you can take day trips near Manila, which offers a stunning sea of clouds and breathtaking mountain views. These locations provide a quick escape into nature without going too far from the city. If you’re planning a quick trip from Manila, here are some must-visit staycation spots with stunning sea of clouds and overlooking views that you should consider:

1. Treasure Mountain Rizal 

Treasure Mountain in RizalPhoto from Rizal Treasure Mountain Day Pass

Rizal, a mountainous province near Manila, is a preferred day tour destination for families and groups seeking a weekend nature getaway. Treasure Mountain in Tanay, is one of the Rizal spots that has been gaining popularity as one of the best destinations for nature trips near Manila. This campsite is renowned for its beautiful sea of clouds and captivating views of the Sierra Madre mountain range.

In addition to Treasure Mountain Tanay Rizal overnight package options, the campsite also offers day tours for those who simply want to enjoy the breathtaking view. The best time to visit is during dawn or early morning for a clear weather sunrise and sea of clouds in the Philippines.

Apart from the amazing sea of clouds in Tanay, guests on a Tanay staycation at Treasure Mountain can enjoy facilities like adult and kiddie pools, a Spider Web obstacle course, a giant seesaw, and various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, nature walks, and rock climbing.

Address: Sitio Maysawa, Brgy. Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal, Philippines

2. Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas and Resort in Bataan

Rancho Bernardo Resort in BataanPhoto by Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas and Resort

While Bataan is known for its cultural and historical tourist spots, it’s also the location of one of the best mountain resorts near Manila, the Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas and Resort. Located 180 km from Manila, it is one of the finest spots to witness a stunning sea of clouds. The resort is spread across 8 hectares with beautiful gardens, koi ponds, and top-notch facilities like jogging paths and a scenic chapel overlooking Barangay Ibis mountain ranges in Bagac. 

Their air-conditioned villas, whether with a mountain or garden view, feature amenities like a flat-screen TV, desk, refrigerator, dining area, and en-suite bathroom with hot & cold shower. Guests that stay here or avail of a Rancho Bernardo Bataan package will have access to an outdoor pool, bar & restaurant, fitness center, garden, chapel, hot tub, and 24-hour front desk and room service.

Address: Rancho Bernardo Luxury Villas & Resort Sitio Kakiputan Brgy, Bagac, Bataan

3. Noni’s Resort in Batangas 

Noni's Resort in BatangasPhoto by Noni's Resort

Batangas is renowned not only for its beautiful beaches and diving spots but also as a sought-after destination for staycations, with Noni's Resort standing out as one of the best places to experience a relaxing getaway near Manila. Located in Alitagtag, this Batangas resort is situated 1000 feet above sea level, providing a sea of clouds and stunning views of Tagaytay ridges, Taal Lake, and Mount Maculot. It’s also near some of the top Batangas tourist spots.

The spacious villas and cabins are air-conditioned and come with amenities like a flat-screen TV, coffee & tea maker, and en-suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy facilities such as an outdoor pool, bar, restaurant, shared lounge with gaming activities, karaoke, and a garden. Free parking is available, and room service, daily housekeeping, and a concierge enhance the overall experience. 

Address: Brgy. Ping-as, Alitagtag, National Hwy, Alitagtag, Batangas

4. Timberland Highlands Resort in Rizal

Timberland Highlands Resort in RizalPhoto by Timberland Highlands Resort

Nestled in the scenic Timberland Heights township in San Mateo, Rizal, Timberland Highlands Resort offers a tranquil escape, featuring recently upgraded rooms that provide stunning views of the Metro Manila skyline. Guests can experience the beauty of nature with a clear view of the sea of clouds from this Instagrammable resort near Manila.

If you’re planning a Rizal staycation, booking a Timberland Highlands Resort package is highly recommended. Each room in this Rizal resort is equipped with essential amenities, including a safety deposit box, cable TV, Wi-Fi access, and a practical work desk.

The resort boasts various facilities like The Ridge Café, The Pool Bar, a children's play area, and a mountain bike park. Families can indulge in a mix of relaxation and adventure with activities such as swimming, basketball, volleyball, and indoor climbing. It’s also near some of the top Rizal tourist spots featured in most Rizal tours, such as Avilon Zoo and UCM Adventure Park.

Address: Timberland Heights, Lot 2 Clubhouse Dr, San Mateo, Rizal

5. Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa in Antipolo

Luljetta's Hanging Gardens Spa in AntipoloPhoto by Luljetta's Hanging Gardens Spa

Perched on the cliffs of Antipolo City, the heart of Rizal province, Luljetta’s Hanging Garden Spa offers stunning views of the Manila skyline and Laguna de Bay. Recognized as one of the best places to stay in Antipolo, Luljetta’s offers a perfect vantage point for witnessing the sea of clouds and provides a range of accommodations, from studios to premium suites.

As the Philippines' only hanging gardens and spa, it boasts amenities such as a sauna, heated jacuzzi, hydro-massage pool, and infinity pools, making sure their guests will have a relaxing day with various massage treatments and body scrubs. Aside from its zen-like gardens, the resort includes a restaurant serving delicious breakfast, coffee, and refreshing drinks. If you’re in for a quick Antipolo staycation, you can book a Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa day pass and explore other must-visit Antipolo tourist spots during your vacation.

Address: Brgy. San Roque, Sitio Loreland Road, Antipolo, Rizal

6. Twin Lakes Hotel in Tagaytay

Twin Lakes Hotel TagaytayPhoto by Twin Lakes Hotel

Tagaytay is a favorite destination for weekend getaways, thanks to its high altitude, chilly weather, and close proximity to Manila. One of the top hotels in Tagaytay with a view is Twin Lakes Hotel. It is located along the Nasugbu-Tagaytay Highway in the heart of Tagaytay city center and is conveniently close to popular Tagaytay tourist spots featured in most Tagaytay tours. However, the hotel's standout feature is its scenic balcony view overlooking Taal Lake and Volcano shared by all guest accommodations, which is an ideal spot to enjoy the breathtaking sea of clouds. 

The hotel has 126 rooms with must-have amenities, including air-conditioning, HD television, coffee/tea facilities, and a safety deposit box. Guests in premium suites get extra perks like a complimentary fruit basket, a bottle of wine, and separate living and dining areas, making their Tagaytay staycation with a view more relaxing.

There's a heated outdoor infinity pool with a stunning view of Taal Lake. The Twin Lakes Cafe, the hotel's restaurant, serves both local favorites and international dishes, offering another great spot to enjoy the beautiful view. For fun and relaxation, the hotel provides a fitness center and game room. Families with kids can enjoy kid-friendly facilities like a wading pool and a kid's corner. The hotel also has a grand ballroom for celebrations and well-equipped conference rooms for corporate events.

Address: Tagaytay - Nasugbu Hwy, Laurel, Batangas

7. Sol Y Viento Mountain Resort in Laguna

Sol Y Viento Mountain Resort's poolsidePhoto by Sol Y Viento Mountain Resort

Laguna has famous waterfalls and hot spring resorts, but there's a special resort here that makes your experience even better. It's in a perfect spot to see the magical sea of clouds. Nestled on a hill with stunning views of Mount Makiling and Laguna de Bay, the expansive 14-acre Sol Y Viento Mountain Resort in Calamba, Laguna, is an ideal Instragrammable staycation place near Manila. In addition to excellent facilities and close proximity to Laguna tourist spots, the resort stands out for its hot spring pools. 

All air-conditioned rooms at Sol Y Viento feature modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, coffee & tea maker, and an en-suite bathroom with hot & cold shower. Free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and complimentary bottled water add to the comfort. The resort offers more than just pools; it boasts a garden, a hot tub, and a unique hot spring bath, perfect for enjoying during the rainy season in the Philippines. The resort's amenities also include a bar, coffee shop, in-house restaurant, and a poolside bar, making sure there is a variety of food and drinks for guests to enjoy.

Address: Makiling Heights, Pansol, Calamba, Laguna

8. Kalinaw sa Kalawakan Campsite in Bulacan

Kalinaw sa Kalawakan Campsite in BulacanPhoto by Kalinaw sa Kalawakan Campsite

Kalinaw sa Kalawakan Campsite is one of the top campsites in Bulacan, a province famous for nature parks and historical sites. Located in Doña Remedios Trinidad, this open-air campsite is surrounded by scenic views and lush mountains and is also an excellent spot to see the magical sight of a sea of clouds. It’s also near some of the top tourist spots in Bulacan.

The campsite offers comfy nipa hut rooms (Yakap, Pahinga, Maligaya) and cozy tents (Karamay, Kapiling, Kasama). The rooms have mattresses, pillows, lights, fans, outdoor furniture, a cooktop, a dining area, a mosquito net, and a nice view of the Sierra Madre mountains. Tents, on the other hand, have mattresses, pillows, tables, chairs, lights, and a fan.

Shared facilities when you book a Kalinaw sa Kalawakan campsite package include a bathroom, kitchen, free parking, souvenir shop, fireplace, sitting area, and a cool Kawa hot bath, which is a big heated cauldron with bath bombs and flowers for relaxation. They also have extra services like a front desk, welcome pets, and serve a home-cooked breakfast with locally sourced ingredients.

Address: Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan

Have a relaxing staycation near Manila with a sea of clouds and mountain views now!

Photo by Treasure MountainPhoto from Rizal Treasure Mountain Day Pass

Going on a nature staycation near Manila to catch the sea of clouds and enjoy breathtaking mountain views is one of the best things to do in Manila. It provides a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city, allowing you to relax and unwind. For a simple yet unforgettable break, consider heading to these campsites, vacation rentals, bed and breakfast accommodations, hotels, and private resorts near Manila and breathe in the fresh air!

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