Vacationing in the country’s various destinations can get exhausting. It’s more of an exodus and less of a break since it often seems that everyone in the city happens to be in the place you chose to get away from it all.
But there are a few places that still manage to retain a semblance of serenity, even during the height of the summer rush.
The Montemar Beach Club Resort is such a place. Nestled on the coast of Bagac in Bataan, its location is perfect for nature lovers. This province is blessed with a picturesque and mostly unspoiled landscape. The municipality of Bagac, for instance, is laid back and it is surrounded by majestic hills that overlook the West Philippine Sea. Most of its coves are undiscovered and primarily explored by campers and backpackers who happen to be in the know.
On the other hand, Montemar is for those who want to savor Bataan’s natural charms without having to give up the comfortable amenities of a luxury resort. It’s located in a secluded area, away from the town proper and crowded resorts.
The service the courteous staff provides is world class and the accommodations are luxurious. Its 89 guestrooms are housed in elegant two to three story building clusters ensconced throughout the sprawling property. Guests can choose a room that can accommodate couples and small families. Whether it be a twin-sharing room, a suite, loft or two-level family guestroom, guests will have a view of either the garden or the ocean. And of course, they come with the amenities the most discerning guests can never do without.
What makes Montemar so appealing is that having been built in the 1970s, the rooms are spacious and most of them have high ceilings. Guests don’t feel cramped. Rest assured these rooms have all been refurbished and updated to cater to today’s travelers who require such sophisticated technology such as Internet connectivity, among others.
Happily, Montemar’s developers chose not to squeeze in as many rooms for the sake of profit. The result—even during peak seasons and when it’s fully booked, the resort is never crowded. It is perhaps the reason why its clientele remains loyal since after all, it’s impossible to relax and recharge in a place teeming with people.
Furthermore, the clusters were situated in a way to make it easy for guests to access Montemar’s sports and food amenities. It takes just a short stroll to the two swimming pools, the restaurant, and the other sports facilities. Golf carts aren’t necessary since the stroll promises to be relaxing, what with the landscaped gardens that have an abundance of tropical flora.
Montemar’s full service restaurant is the La Marea, which serves Continental and Filipino breakfasts and an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. The beach is the main attraction of Montemar and guests can enjoy the water sports amenities including the jet skis and other fun rides
This place isn’t just for vacationers. Conference rooms and functions rooms are designed and equipped to accommodate seminars, private parties, and even wedding receptions. And because of its sports facilities, Montemar has been a popular choice for corporate team building activities.
Having been around for almost 40 years now, Montemar has gained a reputation for its expertise in providing a tranquil getaway for the stylish set. It’s the grand dame of Philippine resorts and it’s constantly modernized to remain competitive. Yet perhaps guests keep coming because of its old world allure and hospitality. Also a big plus is the fact that it takes less than a three-hour, stress free drive through the immaculately maintained highways of Bataan.
Indeed, to our eye, Montemar brings us back to a time when the traffic wasn’t too heavy and the drive to one’s destination was scenic and not too long. Well, one doesn’t need to reminisce since this can still be done today—and in high style—at the Montemar Beach Club.
For more information, please contact (02) 811-5496 or e-mail [email protected]