The Sun Villas & Spa shines as a cozy and blissful respite for the urban dweller

What started as a personal rest house for owner and public relations magnate Edd Fuentes had become one of Boracay’s cozy and recognized accommodations. In 2002, a beautiful house was nestled on a highland—hidden from Boracay’s bustling beachfront, yet minutes away from the island’s crystal waters. Now called Sun Villas & Spa Hilltop Resort, the place strikes the perfect balance, having that familiar ease of peace and quiet at home and the feeling of being on a much-awaited vacation.

The homey resort feel obviously comes from Edd’s own approach on how he treats his own guests, whether family or friends, in his private estate—relaxed, pampered and nurtured. The same values are imbibed by the staff, always mindful and at-the-ready. The inviting pool may be the first to greet you upon arrival, but it is the sala that sets the tone well. Created with cozy corners, comfy chairs and vintage furnishings, the ambience is clearly set up for unwinding. Guests can dine al fresco and just lounge and enjoy a good read, or convene with friends. Free and easy—that is always the order of the day.

There is no need for distractions or recreational activities here, save for the pool and your room’s television. But in your own casita, the porch is there for lazing away. And since you are surrounded by greenery and what seems to be mini-sized secret path gardens, the Sun Villa is a real sanctuary. This is why the spa is the best pairing to complete the experience. Known for its wellness services, The Sun Spa has presence in idyllic locations in Boracay. One cannot resist the lure of their Signature Body Massage or Thai and Philippine Hilot to whisk you away to dreamland. You can also delight in the simple joys of a mani-pedi, foot spa, or reflexology which makes tired feet sing. Try a body scrub to prep yourself for a nice tan and get invigorated for the days ahead, or if you’ve had too much sun basking, their popular Sun Facial and Body treatments will nourish skin.

SWEET SPOT
If your Boracay trip is all about immersing yourself in the island’s beach and party scene, The Sun Villas & Spa Beachfront is their counterpart for no-frills, all-access accommodations. Here you are literally a few steps away from enjoying the sun and sea as well taking an activity-filled day island-hopping or doing water sports. Maybe even for just sunbathing with a cool drink in hand. Besides their spa services, Sun Villas’ Mongolian rice bowl has drawn a following. Every night, the charming dining hallway is transformed into a long table for the feast. It has become a staple dinner for most.

It’s always a happy morning at the beachfront where you can enjoy your breakfast leisurely. No rushing with your toast and coffee as you usually would. You can rely on the intimate and charming dining area to get that needed boost. The picturesque view is right there, and you can start and end your day at the beach staring right in front of you. If you want to explore, the location is perfect for nearby shopping, restaurants and bars. Everything is within reach, located close to everything event-filled.

The Sun Villas & Spa caters to the most basic yet most forgotten functions of a resort—comfort and convenience. By virtue of keeping these at the core of their service, the guests are carefree, secure and have a great sense of wellness during their stay. If one is calm, uninhibited and soothed and nurtured, most especially allowed to just be—then that is a well-spent vacation, no contest.

The Sun Villas & Spa Hilltop resort is located at Station 2, Balabag Boracay, Aklan; contact phone (36) 288 5541; The Sun Villas & Spa Beachfront is located at White Beach, Balabag, Boracay, Aklan; contact phone (36) 288 4410; Manila contact (2) 893 7293; email info@boracaysunresorts.com.ph, web .

The Sun Spa at White Beach, Station 1; The Sun Spa Express, Station 2 near D’Mall; The Sun Spa Premier, The Sun Villas, main road; contact phone (36) 288 4410.