Yes, Christmas is for children. But sometimes, it is also the perfect excuse for the children at heart to have some fun. Campuestohan Highland Resort in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, was where our family decided to spend Christmas Day, turning the holiday into a fun-filled highland adventure.
Our group included my grand aunt, uncle, aunt, cousins, nephews, and nieces. Together, we trooped to one of the latest attractions in Negros Occidental, ready to see what awaited us in the mountains.
It was also my first time visiting Campuestohan.
The Road to Campuestohan
From our home, the drive took about 30 minutes as we passed through Brgys. Granada and Alangilan in Bacolod. The city gradually disappeared behind us, replaced by mountain views, sugarcane plantations, farms, and small villages along the road.
As we climbed higher, the air seemed to change. The road wound uphill, but the smooth pavement made the ascent easy. At one point, however, the concrete road gave way to stones and dirt, turning the ride a little rougher.
Still, the changing landscape made the journey interesting. With every turn, the mountains appeared closer, while the plains stretched farther below.
When we finally reached Campuestohan, vehicles already filled the parking areas inside the resort and lined parts of the main road. Clearly, we were not the only family who thought Christmas Day was a good time for a highland adventure.
A Highland Playground for Everyone
Adults in our group paid an entrance fee of P150 each. Fortunately, the fee already allowed us to enjoy the attractions inside the resort.
And there was plenty to see.
Set against the cloud-covered mountains, Campuestohan offered a refreshing escape from the warmth of the lowlands. The cool breeze made walking around pleasant, while the view of the plains below gave us a different perspective of Talisay and Bacolod.
For a moment, it felt as though the cities were miniature landscapes spread beneath the mountains.
Flying Over the Highlands
One of the first attractions that caught our attention was the zip line.
From below, we watched participants hang from the cable before speeding across the resort. Their movement against the mountain backdrop made the activity look both exciting and slightly terrifying.
While some visitors were brave enough to take the plunge, the rest of us were content watching from the ground.
However, something else quickly stole our attention.
Meeting King Kong at Campuestohan
A giant King Kong towered over the resort.
The enormous ape growled as visitors approached, creating quite a spectacle. Adults happily posed beside the towering figure, while some of the children in our group were not quite as enthusiastic about getting close.
Around King Kong, the scenery became even more unusual. A broken missile, a crashed helicopter, and enormous bones added to the larger-than-life theme.
Then there was the giant shoe.
It immediately reminded me of the nursery rhyme about the old woman who lived in a shoe. With its over-sized proportions and colorful surroundings, Campuestohan sometimes felt less like a resort and more like a children’s storybook that had suddenly come to life.
From Kung Fu Panda to Superheroes
The larger-than-life theme continued as we explored more of the resort.
We encountered statues of the characters from Kung Fu Panda, along with some of the world’s most recognizable superheroes. Thor, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Green Lantern, Hulk, and Wonder Woman stood among the attractions, giving visitors plenty of opportunities for photographs.
Even famous personalities had their own larger-than-life appearances.
Basketball legend Michael Jordan and King of Pop Elvis Presley were among the figures scattered around the resort. Everywhere we turned, there seemed to be another character waiting to surprise us.
Christmas in the Highlands
Because we visited on Christmas Day, Campuestohan had an extra dose of holiday cheer.
Santa Claus figures stood in front of the lodge, accompanied by reindeer and a giant Christmas tree. Christmas carols played around the resort, creating a festive soundtrack as families moved from one attraction to another.
The combination of cool mountain air, Christmas decorations, and excited children made the holiday atmosphere even more memorable.
It was Christmas, but instead of staying at home, we were celebrating among the mountains.
More Than Just Giant Statues
Beyond the colorful attractions, Campuestohan also had plenty of spaces where visitors could simply slow down and enjoy nature.
Gardens added patches of greenery around the resort, while a man-made stream rushed through the property. Cabins and lodges were also scattered around the compound, blending into the highland setting.
For children, there were swimming pools and a playground where they could run, play, and burn off their energy. Meanwhile, restaurants, food stalls, and ice cream corners provided plenty of options whenever hunger or a sweet craving struck.
In other words, there was something for almost everyone.
Staying Overnight at Campuestohan
Campuestohan is also more than a day-trip destination.
For visitors who want to stay longer, the resort offers accommodation within the property. Spending the night also means having more time to enjoy the highland atmosphere, watch the sunset, and see the lights of Bacolod and Talisay gradually appear across the plains.
That view alone makes the idea of staying overnight tempting.
As evening approaches, the mountains become silhouettes while the cities below begin to sparkle. It is a different side of Campuestohan that we did not get to experience during our Christmas visit.
A Family Day in the Highlands
Our first visit to Campuestohan turned out to be a fitting way to spend Christmas Day.
The adults had their photographs, the children had plenty of attractions to explore, and everyone had a chance to enjoy the cool mountain air. More importantly, we had time together as a family, away from our usual routines.
For families looking for an attraction near Bacolod and Talisay, Campuestohan offers a combination of nature, adventure, whimsical attractions, and family-friendly activities.
And sometimes, the best Christmas memories are not found under the Christmas tree.
Sometimes, they are made somewhere up in the mountains, surrounded by family, cool air, and a giant King Kong.
Campuestohan at a Glance
Location: Talisay City, Negros Occidental
From Bacolod: Accessible by road through Granada and Alangilan
Best for: Families, children, nature lovers, and visitors looking for outdoor activities
Highlights: Mountain views, zip line, themed statues, gardens, swimming pools, playground, restaurants, and accommodations
For inquiries, contact:
Campuestohan Highland Resort
Sitio Campuestohan, Brgy. Cabatangan,
Talisay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines
Telephone : +63-915 211 1406 | +63-34 702 0964 | +63-917 300 5007 Website: https://www.campuestohanhighlandresort.com.ph
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