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The beautiful reception area of the resort |
Revisiting Nagcarlan and Discovering Laguna’s hidden gem
After a brief lunch (no worry, I’m a small eater!), I joined the media group who came earlier from Quezon City.
Our first itinerary was the Nagcarlan Museum and Underground Cemetery. Constructed in 1845, this circular burial site includes a small Baroque-style chapel above an underground crypt that was originally used by friars and influential families.
In the late 19th century, it served as a clandestine meeting spot for Filipino revolutionaries planning their revolt against Spanish rule. Subsequently, its isolated and discreet location made it an ideal hideout for guerrilla forces during the Philippine-American War and World War II.
The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery was designated a National Historical Landmark in 1981. No new burials were permitted after this declaration and the site underwent restoration to preserve its structure and historical significance. By 2019 the cemetery has evolved into a heritage museum under the management of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Today, its distinctive architecture, rich layered history, and haunting beauty make it a captivating cultural site and an essential destination for heritage enthusiasts.
Right at the back of the historical site are the row of houses dedicated to making Laguna’s famed pasalubong and snack item -- espasol! Our brief interview with the owner and espasol-packers revealed that Amie’s Special Espasol have been in the local market and nearby stores for the last 40 years. We had a good amount of free taste before buying our pasalubong for Manila.
Nagcarlan Church
Another short trip took us to the magnificent Nagcarlan Church also called San Bartolome Apostol Parish Church, a beautiful baroque church built by the Franciscans in 1583, known for its beautiful brick-and-stone façade and iconic four-story bell tower.
Historical records show that the church was first built from light materials such as nipa and wood under the chaplaincy of its first priest, Father Tomas de Miranda, and was dedicated to Saint Bartholomew, thus its name. Fr.Miranda was also credited for pioneering the cultivation of wheat in the country.
A second church made of stone and bricks was built in 1752 with the multicolored stones and bricks but was partially destroyed by fire in 1781.
Further reconstruction using adobe and restoration (including elaborately designed tiles) and addition of the choir loft on three strong arches was done in 1845 at the same time that the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery was also built.
Nagcarlan Church had its share of the spotlight when it was featured in the 1974 movie "Kampanerang Kuba" and its teleserye remake over ABS-CBN in 2005.
Relaxing Lake Life
The following day, we headed to Yambo Lake, one of the Seven Lakes systems of San Pablo. Yambo is located between San Pablo City and Nagcarlan and is said to have 70%-30% sharing of the water area with the latter as the gateway to the lake. The serene, crater-formed lake, renowned for its pristine waters and lush surroundings is popular for swimming, bamboo rafting, picnics, and relaxing. It also features jumping/diving site and a ‘Tarzan’ swing.
Yambo is often paired with the nearby Pandin Lake, separated only by a narrow strip of land where guests hike and take photos.
We had a good time rafting and relaxing at the lake with some enjoying swimming. However, many of the group members decided to stay dry because of the cold water, breezy air, and cloudy weather.
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| The yummy espasol being packed at the time of our visit |
Nagcarlan Church
Another short trip took us to the magnificent Nagcarlan Church also called San Bartolome Apostol Parish Church, a beautiful baroque church built by the Franciscans in 1583, known for its beautiful brick-and-stone façade and iconic four-story bell tower.
Historical records show that the church was first built from light materials such as nipa and wood under the chaplaincy of its first priest, Father Tomas de Miranda, and was dedicated to Saint Bartholomew, thus its name. Fr.Miranda was also credited for pioneering the cultivation of wheat in the country.
A second church made of stone and bricks was built in 1752 with the multicolored stones and bricks but was partially destroyed by fire in 1781.
Further reconstruction using adobe and restoration (including elaborately designed tiles) and addition of the choir loft on three strong arches was done in 1845 at the same time that the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery was also built.
Nagcarlan Church had its share of the spotlight when it was featured in the 1974 movie "Kampanerang Kuba" and its teleserye remake over ABS-CBN in 2005.
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| Media participants of the fam tour |
The following day, we headed to Yambo Lake, one of the Seven Lakes systems of San Pablo. Yambo is located between San Pablo City and Nagcarlan and is said to have 70%-30% sharing of the water area with the latter as the gateway to the lake. The serene, crater-formed lake, renowned for its pristine waters and lush surroundings is popular for swimming, bamboo rafting, picnics, and relaxing. It also features jumping/diving site and a ‘Tarzan’ swing.
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| This author recharged by hugging a tree at the islet separating twins Pandin and Yambo. On the background is Pandin which has a different entry point |
We had a good time rafting and relaxing at the lake with some enjoying swimming. However, many of the group members decided to stay dry because of the cold water, breezy air, and cloudy weather.
In between various activities, the resort management led by Ms. Lou Gorospe made sure that we met our nourishment as well with sumptuous food -- many of them we only tasted in Laguna -- making our experience beyond leisure. We were treated to a spread of delicious dishes from breakfast favorites to delightful merienda and hearty dinners and not to forget, the freshly brewed Kapeng Barako.
Their resident Chef definitely brings his Laguna heritage to every plate. The Menudong Laguna -- all-fresh vegetable medley is a soulful dish that hits all the right notes: savory, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. The Lumpiang Hubad makes a perfect replacement for white rice. The grilled collection of fish (tilapia and bangus), pork, and chicken taste fresh and savory. While the laswa soup and sinigang provides perfect heat for the chilly weather.
He said he is focused on maintaining a thriving guest occupancy while training and aiming for excellence for the resort staff.
“Now, as the resort celebrates its 16th year, the vision is expanding. The goal is to evolve from a hidden gem into a premier destination, with plans to increase room capacity and establish a state-of-the-art hub for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market,” he stressed.
A truly unique Filipino retreat
The morning before our departure to Manila was spent rounding the property, trying out some rides, meeting and conversing with some staff and guests, picture-taking, and walking for a great dose of Vitamin D and fresh air.
Beyond its borders, Nagcarlan itself is a hidden gem of the Calabarzon region—renowned for its cool climate, cascading waterfalls, and the storied heritage of Spanish era architecture. A stay at Green Nature Resort Park and Leisure isn’t just a getaway; it’s an invitation to experience a destination where modern comforts meet pristine nature, making every moment a memorable chapter in the story of a truly unique Filipino retreat.
For a curated tour experience like ours, like and follow the resort’s Facebook page: Green Nature Resort & Leisure Park Nagcarlan Laguna. For more information, call 09190664672 and 09171824672.
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| Menudong Laguna |
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| Yummy all! |
Their resident Chef definitely brings his Laguna heritage to every plate. The Menudong Laguna -- all-fresh vegetable medley is a soulful dish that hits all the right notes: savory, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet. The Lumpiang Hubad makes a perfect replacement for white rice. The grilled collection of fish (tilapia and bangus), pork, and chicken taste fresh and savory. While the laswa soup and sinigang provides perfect heat for the chilly weather.
16 years and beyond
Turning sweet 16 this year, Green Nature Resort is now under the supervision of Approche Hospitality Management, a fast-growing hotel management company which prioritizes the identity of the property while elevating operational excellence. Approche’s strategy focuses on supporting boutique resorts often overlooked by larger management groups, bringing professional systems in operations, marketing, and guest experience.
“At Approche, we believe the property’s brand should stand out—not the management company. Our goal is to help destinations like Green Nature Resort grow and thrive on their own identity,” said Christian Guballa, AHM’s Managing Director, during the media night
Turning sweet 16 this year, Green Nature Resort is now under the supervision of Approche Hospitality Management, a fast-growing hotel management company which prioritizes the identity of the property while elevating operational excellence. Approche’s strategy focuses on supporting boutique resorts often overlooked by larger management groups, bringing professional systems in operations, marketing, and guest experience.
“At Approche, we believe the property’s brand should stand out—not the management company. Our goal is to help destinations like Green Nature Resort grow and thrive on their own identity,” said Christian Guballa, AHM’s Managing Director, during the media night
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| AHM's Chris Guballa |
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| AHM and DOT RD Marites Castro join forces to promote Laguna, Nagcarlan and GNRLP |
He said he is focused on maintaining a thriving guest occupancy while training and aiming for excellence for the resort staff.
“Now, as the resort celebrates its 16th year, the vision is expanding. The goal is to evolve from a hidden gem into a premier destination, with plans to increase room capacity and establish a state-of-the-art hub for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market,” he stressed.
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| The resort's VIP area |
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| Part of the water parks with giant slides |
A truly unique Filipino retreat
The morning before our departure to Manila was spent rounding the property, trying out some rides, meeting and conversing with some staff and guests, picture-taking, and walking for a great dose of Vitamin D and fresh air.
Beyond its borders, Nagcarlan itself is a hidden gem of the Calabarzon region—renowned for its cool climate, cascading waterfalls, and the storied heritage of Spanish era architecture. A stay at Green Nature Resort Park and Leisure isn’t just a getaway; it’s an invitation to experience a destination where modern comforts meet pristine nature, making every moment a memorable chapter in the story of a truly unique Filipino retreat.
For a curated tour experience like ours, like and follow the resort’s Facebook page: Green Nature Resort & Leisure Park Nagcarlan Laguna. For more information, call 09190664672 and 09171824672.
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| Despite the signage, we missed our way out to our hotel room. A day is not enough to tour the 5-ha property |
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| Trees and lots of trees at the resort |
Here are more Instagram-worthy spots at the resort:
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