Swept Away... in Marinduque

CEBU, Philippines – I have always wanted to explore different places in the country. Thus, when my boss asked me if I was interested to go to Marinduque for an event organized by Avon Philippines, I immediately said yes. I didn’t know what to expect though, all I knew about Marinduque is that it is famous for the Moriones Festival.

So there I was at the Soriano Aviation Hangar at the Manila Domestic Airport along with other media from Manila, waiting for our chartered flight to Marinduque. According to the invitation, wrapped in gold paper with an accompanying moleskin notebook and a pen, we were headed to Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa in enchanting Elephant Island, located southwest off the coast of Marinduque. Bellarocca, according to the invitation, has a landscape that is reminiscent of Santorini, Greece. Hmmmm….

The 60-minute plane ride from Manila to Marinduque was easy breezy. It seemed like the whole neighborhood was there to meet us at the airport! After knowing that Avon Philippines was the organizer of the event, the locals thought that Angel Locsin, one of the endorsers of Avon, was with us!

We then boarded a yacht to get to Bellarocca. And there, my excitement rose to uncontrollable levels. “Just a few more minutes and we will be in Santorini, er Bellarocca,” I thought.

And the invitation really did justice to the place. The moment we saw Elephant Island and the resort, it felt like we were going toward Santorini.

Bellarocca, which means “beautiful rock,” is perched on a 20-hectare mountainous land called Elephant Island. The island got its name from its shape. From afar, the island looks like a big elephant wading on the sea waters of Marinduque. The resort, which features 69 exclusive and stunningly appointed deluxe rooms, suites, casas, terrazas and villas, is managed by Genesis Hotels and Resorts Corp. The balconies and verandahs of the different room accommodations offer a breathtaking view of the Sibuyan Sea and the majestic Mt. Malindig. The different villas also come with a private infinity pool and a jacuzzi!

The resort’s amenities include aqua sports facilities, a grand spa and wellness center and a 9-hole golf course. The place is truly perfect for those who want privacy, peace and quiet and lots and lots of pampering.

My villa-mates and I really enjoyed our stay at the island. Too bad we only stayed there for a night.