1. Bahay Bakasyunan
Bahay Bakasyunan is a tourist attraction in the Municipality of Tanay, Rizal. This resort is perfect for team buildings because it has a wide area with amazing facilities like wall climbing, mudslides, and other fun outdoor activities. Rooms and cottages are built on top of the mountain, with amazing sceneries from afar. Not only that, one of the pride of Bahay Bakasyunan is the swimming pool on top of the mountain with cool and crystal clear water (photo above). The design of the landscape is really stunning.
2. Mt. Pamitinan
Another tourist spot can be found on the summit of Mount Pamitinan in Montalban, Rizal. The trail of Pamitinan is difficult because most of the time, hikers need to hop on and off the sharp boulders. But on the summit, the air is cool and fresh plus there's a 360-degree amazing view of the nearby villages. The surroundings are covered with relaxing greens - such a great view!
3. Mt. Hapunang Banoi
Mt. Hapunang Banoi is a dwarf and a hiking-friendly mountain in Montalban, Rizal which can give you a tantalizing view of nature's beauty. Together with Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Binacayan, this mountain is one of the must hiked mountains in the area because it is also surrounded by luscious green trees which makes the area look relaxing. Plus the exhilarating terrains added an adventure to hikers. In the center of these mountains is Wawa Dam, a water reservoir built by the Americans. This area was chosen because it's a catch basin of the three mountains.
4. Higantes Festival
If you're looking for colorful festivities, the Higantes Festival is perfect for you. It is one of the most awaited festivals in the Philippines linked to the history of Angono. During this festival, residents create colorful giants being used during the procession. After the parade on the streets, it is followed by a fluvial parade, and in the evening the public plaza is flooded with people to witness different talents on stage. Not only that, since it's a fiesta, expect more food and happiness on the streets. By the way, this is a wet event so waterproofing is advised.
5. Balaw-Balaw
I am not into cooking, but I love eating! One thing that I would like to share was an amazing encounter with exotic foods at Balaw-Balaw Restaurant in Angono. So, after enjoying the famous Higantes Festival, while our clothes were wet, we proceeded to this exotic restaurant, which is actually one of the prominent restaurants outside Manila. I consider it one of the must-visit, the best place to dine, and the best restaurant serving exotic foods.
6. Tanay Adventure Camp
If you're looking for extreme outdoor activities near Manila, maybe you can find something interesting at Tanay Adventure Camp. They offer outdoor activities for team buildings such as wall climbing, mudslides, zip-line, and many more. They also have an Olympic-sized swimming pool, with cottages built on the side. Management can also arrange paragliding and other similar activities for you.
7. Mt. Daraitan
Nowadays, Mount Daraitan is one of the most visited mountains in Rizal because of its simple trail, cool ambiance, and beautiful landscape, everywhere is green, and the campsite by the river is just unforgettable (photo above). During summer, the cool and crystal-clear water of the Tinipak River replenishes tourists tired muscles. If you're looking for an extreme or challenge, river crossing and caving are the must-have.
8. 3B Resort and Rest House
Looking for a place for an overnight stay for your team? 3B Resort and Rest house is recommended. Its area has the perfect view of the bright skyline of Metro Manila during the evening. They have a swimming pool, space for your team activities, videoke, and clean rooms with toilet and bath.
9. Cattleya Resort
We got Isabel swimming pool, one of the best spots in Cattleya Resort, Antipolo City because it is facing the vibrant lights of the metro. I love the ambiance here; the breeze is cool, the air is fresh, everything is calm, and has a homey feeling. The area is also surrounded by plants with an artistic landscape and the pool has a unique shape filled with crystal clear waters. The sound of the lashing water on the pool added a relaxing feeling during our stay.
10. Tanay Church
The Tanay Church was established in 1573 by two Franciscan missionaries. The construction started in 1773 and was finished in 1783. It was declared the National Cultural Treasure Church by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. I was really speechless while standing by the facade and looking at the stunning dark bricks. I did my research and found out that it was designed by a native Tanay artist.
How to Get to Rizal:
- You can hop and drop to public utility vehicles like jeepneys or FX Taxis (AUVs) with terminals located in Crossing and SM Mega Mall in Mandaluyong City and in Cubao, Quezon City.
- City Buses like RRCG, G-Liner, and EMBC are also available with routes from Manila (Quiapo and Divisoria particular) going to Rizal Province.
Where to Stay in Rizal:
- You can search on Facebook. Please be mindful of the scammers.
- You can use mobile hotel booking such as Agoda. Click the photo below for rates:
