Far away from it all, 90 kilometers (56 mites) south of Manila, The Farm at San Benito is a favourite hideaway for Filipino celebrities and international stars like Woody Harrelson. This sprawling complex is set in the verdant jungle and is entirely dedicated to the enjoyment, relaxation and wellness of its guests.
In fact, well-being is taken very seriously here, and besides offering a range of pampering treatments like massages, scrubs and facials, it also offers medical vacations that focus on detoxification.
In these detox programmes, guests consume mostly vegetable salads and life-giving juices, and undergo colon hydrotherapy sessions. Programmes are supervised by doctors and medical professionals, ensuring that guests are in very safe hands.
Those seeking more indulgent experiences can opt for The Farm's pampering Packages', which include gentle body scrubs to invigorate and exfoliate, as well as Therapeutic, Thai, Filipino or Balinese massages to soothe tense muscles.
A particular favourite at the Farm is its signature Hilot Haplos with Coco Cacao Body Scrub. Treatment begins with a refreshing scrub made of coconut cream and powdered cocoa. Once the body is slathered and scrubbed in the mix, it is washed off in a luscious bath of warm, fresh coconut milk. A sensational pilot, a traditional Filipino massage, follows, as therapists knead the strain out of the muscles before a mug of hot chocolate, made from the finest Batangas chocolate, is served. Another I treatment is the Moxa Ventoza. Influenced by the Chinese therapy of moxibustion, this traditional Filipino treatment is practiced by healers who use heat resistance cups to encourage blood flow.
Meals at The Farm are wonderfully healthy. The restaurant's menu is strictly vegetarian, with nary a fish, dairy product or egg in sight. lts chef, Felix Daniel Schoener, says that delicious meals can be made entirely out of vegetables, especially raw ones. Delicious rice and pasta meals can still be found at the Farm, but Chef Schoener insists that his 'live food' system-essentially dishes made of organic vegetables, herbs, spices, seeds, and nuts that are raw, slightly marinated or gently heated-can be just as delicious as any gourmet meal.
When not luxuriating under the hands of the skilled therapists or supping on its excellent cuisine, guests can relax and unwind amongst its lush surroundings. Paths into the jungle lead to restful meditation spots, a library and a serene lake. There are several natural spring water swimming pools, one in the jungle under a waterfall. Fountains and exotic flowers abound, and beautiful songbirds fill the air.
Around the large pond set between the reception and restaurant, tucks, peacocks and a black swan wander.
These make up The Farm's ambience and its entertainment-there are no televisions or radios, no smoking or alcohol. If you do find yourself desperate for some urban enjoyment, there are DVDS at the reception which can be enjoyed in the spa's library.
Activities
Breathing and walking exercise, golf, guided meditation, trial walking, Tibetan exercise,weight training, yoga, beauty and nutrition workshops, weight loss workshops.
The Farm at San Benito
119 Barangay Tipakan, Lipa City T +632 751 3498 F +632 696 3175
Far away from it all, 90 kilometers (56 mites) south of Manila, The Farm at San Benito is a favourite hideaway for Filipino celebrities and international stars like Woody Harrelson. This sprawling complex is set in the verdant jungle and is entirely dedicated to the enjoyment, relaxation and wellness of its guests.