The Peacock Garden at Baclayon fuses cultures for a unique and relaxing experience

The PEACOCK, with its colorful and iridescent fan tail, has become representative of beauty and luxury. This native bird of India, which is now raised in different parts of the world, is also a symbol of cultural melding. Somewhere in Bohol, a resort owner has considered these qualities and chosen to name the leisure property after the distinctive fowl.

The Peacock Garden in Baclayon is a 15-minute drive from Tagbilaran City Airport. It brings together European design with Filipino hospitality. There is an East-meets-West aesthetic immediately apparent from the winding driveway leading to the main house.

A Touch of Rizal

The Peacock Garden opened in 2009 and has since updated its facilities to accommodate the growing number of guests. It has a total of 40 rooms (six superior, 21 deluxe, 12 premier and one suite) with custom-crafted furniture and a sitting area in each. All rooms face the sea towards the infinity pool. The rooms all have a terrace or a balcony where guests come to view sunsets against an expansive sky. When the sun hides behind Pamilacan island in the far distance, the heavens display hues of orange, pink and purple.

Located at the main hall is the resort’s restaurant Old Heidelberg, named after the German city where Dr. Jose Rizal spent time abroad. The owner’s love for art and travel are evident in the paintings that adorn the walls. Fencing swords, postcards, beer mugs, hats and songbooks from the owner’s personal collection during his time as a student in Europe hang throughout the public spaces. Chairs in the restaurant are antiques acquired from European castles, including a set that Rizal once used.
Noticeable, besides décor, is the service of the staff. Guests are greeted by their names and dining options include personalized meals and requests for particular dishes at any time of the day.

Around the Resort

The Peacock Garden houses the Fontana Aurelia Spa, which is Latin for “golden fountain.” It is named after Weisbaden, a hotel in Germany built in 1906 that belonged to the owner’s grandfather. The spa offers a variety of services, from full body massages, body treatments, masks and facials, all using only Pevonia Botanica products. Clients have an option of upgrading into the spa suite, a room with a private Jacuzzi tub and a view of the forest and the ocean. A signature treatment is a four-handed massage where therapists mirror each other’s movement for blood circulation and calming, soothing effects.

The Wine Cellar and Hemingway Cigar Lounge are options for those who want to relax with a drink in the evening. A selection of wines and cheeses are served in intimate settings at both locations. The latter also features a wide array of cigars selected by the owner during his travels around the world. For others who want to dance and drink the night away, Pim’s is a night spot located at the ground floor of the main hall.

A Tour of Nature

Arrangements can be made for special eco-cultural tours or outdoor activities by the resort’s staff. While tourists normally come to see the Chocolate Hills and Baclayon Church, among many other city sights, guests of the resort can opt to go dolphin, whale shark (butanding) and mantra ray-watching at Pamilacan. Heading out to sea at five in the morning ensures guests numerous sightings of the creatures at close range. Docking at the island is also an option for guests who want to snorkel and dive around the area before heading back to the resort.

The Peacock Resort is unique for its aesthetics and recreational options which make it worth a visit.

Peacock Garden is located at Upper Laya, Baclayon, Bohol, Philippines. For more information, visit
peacockgarden.com .