As mentioned in my previous post, I’ll be writing about previous travels and experiences. The next 6 to 8 blog posts will be all about our trips and some experiences from as far back as three years ago. Yes, that’s 2023! There’s a lot of catching up to do, so let’s get started! Let’s begin with a very special place to us – Highland Bali Villas in Nueva Ecija.

Highland Bali Villas Resort and Spa is a mountain resort that became extra meaningful to us because this is where we celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary and the first as a family of three. This is also where Iya had her very first dip in a pool.

How to Get to Highland Bali from Manila

If you’re coming from Manila, the drive takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.

The usual route is from Manila via NLEX, then connecting to SCTEX, exit toward Nueva Ecija and drive through Pantabangan, continuing up the roads until you reach Highland Bali Villas.

The roads are mostly smooth and manageable, but I clearly remember one rough stretch as you get closer to the resort. I’m hoping they’ve fixed that part by now!

A Bali-Inspired Mountain Resort in Nueva Ecija

The overall aesthetic of the resort truly lives up to its name, Highland Bali. I’ve never been to Bali, Indonesia (but have always wanted to visit!), but I did recognize the architecture throughout the place as Bali-inspired – layered roofs, intricate wood carvings, earthy tones and landscaped gardens. There were also pops of bright colors for a tropical feel.

Walking around the property is an experience in itself. The resort sits high in the mountains of Pantabangan, so everywhere you look, you’ll see breathtaking views of nature. The lake nearby adds to the beauty and unique charm of the place. Highland Bali even offers lake activities like kayaking and boat rides as part of their recreational activities. Since Iya was just 6 months old at the time, we skipped these and just enjoyed the resort’s other amenities.

Since the resort is elevated, the weather is pleasantly cool, and the temperature drops significantly at night. We stayed in March, and even then, I clearly remember how cold and windy it would get once the sun went down.

If you’re looking for a summer escape from Manila’s heat, this place is perfect.

Our Room

I absolutely loved our hotel room! We stayed at the Premium Farida Pool Villa. The villas surround a huge central pool with lounging areas and a pool bar. Each villa has a veranda that opens up to this charming pool view.

And when you step inside the villa through the large glass doors, you’re welcomed into a relaxing, spacious room. The bathroom was just as impressive – it’s huge and clean, it has a bathtub, and it has another door that leads out to a balcony where you can see not just the mountains, but the lake as well.

I just loved everything about this villa!

The Pools and Iya’s First Swim

Highland Bali Villas has so many Instagrammable spots, but their pools truly take the cake. I especially loved the pool at the Premium Farida Pool Villa where it’s made to look like you’re in a small tropical village. The Bali-inspired aesthetic, with the warm wood accents of the villas and lush greenery of the lounges surrounding the water create such a peaceful and relaxing ambiance.

Their infinity pool is another standout feature of the resort. From the water, you’re treated to a sweeping view of lush greenery and layers of mountains stretching into the distance. It’s definitely a spot where we took lots of photos.

They also have smaller heated pools. This is where we stayed for Iya’s first dip. With her little floater on, we slowly immersed her in the water. It was so fun watching her reaction! She had this serious expression as she absorbed this new sensation. Then little by little, she started smiling and eventually enjoyed the water. It was a core memory for Marco and I, watching her discover something new like that.

While walking around, we noticed a large section of the resort under construction. It looked like a massive swimming pool. The receptionist told us they were building a large water park area scheduled to open in June 2024. I just checked their website and it’s now finished and open! Well, here’s another reason to revisit!

A Relaxing Massage

We also decided to try their massage during our stay. You can choose to have your massage inside your room or at their spa pavilion. I opted for the spa area for the full experience. It was honestly one of the most relaxing massages I’ve had in a long time. Marco even said it was his first massage where he didn’t wake up with body aches the next day.

The Food (And Discovering Their Spanish Bread)

Okay, their restaurant served good food, but honestly, if I’ll compare it to other resorts I’ve been to, there wasn’t any food that stood out.

They do have their popular Spanish bread. The moment I tasted it, I understood why it’s so popular. It doesn’t taste like the usual Spanish bread you buy at local bakeries. It was softer (like ensaymada-soft) and the filling was creamier. After finishing one each, Marco and I knew we had to bring home some to the fam as pasalubong! So we bought more boxes.

Why Highland Bali Is Worth Visiting

Highland Bali isn’t just beautiful – it holds memories for us.

It’s where we celebrated our wedding anniversary. It’s where Iya experienced a milestone. And it’s where we paused and just enjoyed being a little family of three.

If you’re looking for a mountain resort near Manila, a Bali-inspired place in Nueva Ecija, a cool-weather escape during the summer months, or a family-friendly resort with stunning views and lots of recreational activities, this place definitely deserves a spot on your list.

More travel throwbacks soon!