If you want to have a staycation near Bacolod City but where you can be close to nature, then Rapha Valley at Don Salvador Benedicto (DSB), Negros Occidental is the perfect destination for you. You can spend the weekend by yourself, with your partner, or with family or friends. Stay the whole time inside Rapha Valley and have some relaxing time to recharge yourself before going back to your daily grind.
Since Rapha Valley is open during weekends (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) and closed during weekdays (Mondays to Thursdays, unless for special arrangements), it is best to call a few days ahead if you’re coming. Rates may also change, so it is advisable to call these numbers for inquiries and reservations: +63 34-4730816; +63 921-6137928; +63917-8292023 or visit www.raphavalley.com where you can book online. More updates can be found at www.fb.com/raphavalley.
It’s my second time to spend a night here, and it is still as refreshing as before. There are new amenities in this wellness destination that even groups can enjoy. While many come here during weekends only for a day visit just to see the place and have lunch, it is more invigorating to sleep in Rapha Valley and take advantage of the various things it can offer. Here are nine things you can enjoy while staying in Rapha Valley.
Eat yummy organic food
The primary thing every visitor looks forward to doing when they’re in Rapha Valley is to feast on organic food at the Rapha Café. Check out their menu here and you’ll find all-day breakfasts, light meals, salads, soups, pasta, main dishes, snacks, barkadahan meals, kid’s menu, side dishes, desserts and juices. If you’re in luck, you can even enjoy your food as well as a conversation about health with Dr Albert Jo when he’s around.
They offer vegetarian food, some made in the gluten-free dough, that makes it a must-visit place for those wanting to fill their body with good food. The good thing about Rapha Café is that their food — from the ingredients to preparation to handling to taste and presentation — are well-researched so that they can serve the healthiest dishes with a delectable taste that is closest to the original.
Sleep in cozy rooms with DSB’s naturally cool air
You are only experiencing half of Rapha Valley if you are not staying there for a night or more. Their accommodations are cozy and colorful, surrounded by greens and with the sound of nature to lull you to sleep. No air-conditioning is required because with the cool air that naturally comes in DSB, who would need an air-con unit?
The catinas and cuartos still look very new because they are well-maintained. There’s an electric fan and TV set in the rooms if you prefer to spend most of your time indoors, especially when it rains in the uplands. The beds, pillows and beddings are neat and comfortable. The toilet and bath are also clean with toiletries and towels.
Tour the vegetable gardens
Rapha Valley offers a farm tour. In fact, there is a farm tour package that includes the entrance fee, welcome food and drinks and a lunch buffet. It is good to know the different kinds of plants that we can grow in our backyard that are good for our body. It’s an educational activity where you can learn a lot of insights from Doc Albert or from his team.
Exchange stories around a bonfire
There’s a bonfire area beyond the catinas and cuartos. It gives you a view of Mt. Kanlaon and the surrounding mountains. It’s a lovely experience to exchange stories and laughter around the fire that can warm the cold nights.
Relax in a jacuzzi with a view
The jacuzzi is a new feature in Rapha Valley. Relax in the warm water while watching the sunset and taking in the beautiful view of the scenery. Since everything has to be done in moderation, the jacuzzi can be used for 30-45 minutes.
Rejuvenate in their spa
Rapha Valley now has a spa where you can have a foot spa or a Pinoy hilot. The masseurs are trained and you can relax as they employ the traditional method while you listen to the sound of water through its water fountain wall.
Lounge on a hammock
There are hammocks at the open-air Santol House that gives a breathtaking view of the landscape — the valley, the surrounding mountains and the sunset. You can bring a book to read while lounging at the hammock or simply take a nap while listening to your favorite playlist.
Take photos of the scenery
Photography enthusiasts will love to spend a weekend in Rapha Valley because of the beautiful scenery and interesting subjects for pictures. You don’t even need to be that knowledgeable in photography to enjoy the place. You can simply snap some selfies, groufies or IG-worthy photos. There are also wall arts where you can do artistic shots or poses.
Watch the fireflies at night
In this era of modern technology, most people feel they cannot live without their gadgets. Yet, there are simple pleasures in life that we can enjoy, such as watching fireflies at night. This is one natural attraction that visitors who stay in Rapha Valley can get to witness and marvel as soon as darkness sets in.
There are plenty of reasons why you should spend a weekend in Rapha Valley. You can come up with your own reasons, too, when you experience it yourself.
I didn’t know much before! Thank you for giving me another place to travel!