Bohol has a new charmer with the upcoming opening of South Palms Resort & Spa Panglao – MGallery Collection on Aug. 8.
Set along a white-sand beachfront less than five kilometers from the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, the new resort brings together island heritage, sustainable design, and coastal hospitality.
The resort is surrounded by diverse ecosystems and iconic landscapes that define Bohol, from vibrant coral reefs and a sunken plane wreck to the UNESCO-listed Chocolate Hills and a nearby tarsier conservation sanctuary.
Designed by Patricia Ho of White Jacket, Philip Pond of Atelier Pond, and Patrick Keane of Enter Projects Asia, South Palms Panglao is built using locally sourced materials and indigenous patterns. Visitors enter through an archway of intertwined vines and are welcomed into a banyan tree-shaded lobby. Guestrooms feature handwoven headboards, bamboo and coconut wood details, rattan lighting, and interiors guided by biophilic design.
A spiraled Walk Bridge runs through the open-air resort, where the scent of lemongrass from its garden drifts throughout. Every structure is kept low-rise, in respect of local architecture and the surrounding environment.
Guests can enjoy low-impact activities such as reef snorkeling, diving at the nearby planewreck, and guided visits to a working farm located just one kilometer from the resort. The farm experience includes animal feeding, workshops, and interactions with carabaos. Families can join in culturally rooted programs, while wellness seekers can unwind through spa treatments rooted in Filipino traditions. The resort also features four restaurants and bars, a kids’ club, and outdoor spaces for events and weddings.
A highlight of the property is the MGallery signature experience, “The Timeless Crystal of Bohol,” which introduces guests to asin tibuok, a rare sea salt unique to this part of the Philippines. The curated activity gives insight into its traditional, labor-intensive production process—connecting visitors with a centuries-old practice.
“This is more than a destination, it’s a living narrative,” said General Manager Danish Khan. “We offer signature experiences that bring the story of Bohol to every guest journey. We have created a place where local culture comes alive, where nature and luxury exist in harmony, and where guests can create meaningful connections that transform every stay into a personal story.”
An “Elite Access” pre-opening offer is available for bookings from July 4, covering stays between Aug. 8 and Oct. 31. The package includes P3,000 in resort credits, with extra perks for ALL and Accor Plus members.
Reservations may be made via southpalmsmgallery.reservations@accor.com, by calling +63 038 507 0010, or through Accor’s website.