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LIST: Relaxing Places in Iloilo Where You Can Disconnect This Holy Week

Disconnect from distractions and find Holy Week solace at these relaxing places in Iloilo.

By: Karen Bermejo | March 10, 2024
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relaxing place in Iloilo

Visit these relaxing places in Iloilo to help you disconnect and unwind!

Images: Yoorekka (L); Igbulawan Farm Facebook page (R)

Holy Week in the Philippines is anticipated by Catholics and those who crave some downtime moments. It's one of the long holidays in the Philippines. Thus, most people, especially those in big cities, often come home to their respective provinces or take their chance to vacation.

Indeed, you have many options for relaxing places in Iloilo to disconnect this Holy Week season. With so many things to see and do, you'll surely forget about them. Here are some of the best places to go in Iloilo:


1. Iloilo Churches

Recommended Places: National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles, St. Anne Church, Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish


relaxing place in Iloilo

The facade of Jaro Cathedral, also known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles.

Image: Writer

Iloilo City and its nearby town are the best places for a Visita Iglesia, a tradition prevalent among Filipino Catholics wherein they visit at least seven churches on Holy Thursday and Good Friday.

One that anyone could not miss for a calm Holy Week in Iloilo is the Jaro Cathedral or the National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles (Nuestra Señora de Candelaria). Public transport passes the church's location, so it's easy to spot.

The image of Our Lady of Candles placed at an altar outside the church, which is believed to be growing in size, is one of its iconic details. However, it's the only female image inside the church since only images of male saints are inside. Its newly renovated bell tower or belfry across the church is also one of the most picturesque structures in the city. Be sure to light a candle and offer a prayer during your visit.

Meanwhile, St. Anne Church in the Molo district is the opposite of Jaro Cathedral. The church houses the images of female saints only. Outside the church, there's a prominent structure of female Greek goddesses.

When it comes to churches, Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish, also known as Miagao Church in Miagao, Iloilo, is undoubtedly a must-visit. The church with Baroque architecture is one of the oldest in the country and is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Miagao town is less than an hour's drive from Iloilo City. Ride a public utility vehicle from Mohon Terminal in Arevalo District or the Iloilo Terminal market to get here.

Beyond their picturesque structures, these Iloilo churches showcase the Ilonggos' intense devotion and commitment to their faith.


2. Garin Farm

Where: Purok 2, San Joaquin, Iloilo


relaxing place in Iloilo

Check what heaven looks like at Garin Farm’s Stairway to Heaven.

Image: Yoorekka

Those going on a pilgrimage might also like to check what heaven looks like at this relaxing place in Iloilo—the Garin Farm's Stairway to Heaven. Painted in all white, the giant stairway adorned with angels with harps leads to the giant cross on top. The cross has carvings of clouds and an image of Jesus on its foot. It can be hot during midday, so it's best to visit before 10:00 AM, when the sky is blue, or at sunset for some dramatic hues. More than 450 steps are going up to the end of the stairway, so it's also advisable to bring an umbrella and water. Along the way, you'll find a meditation tunnel where you can rest and offer a prayer.

The Stairway to Heaven is just one of the attractions at Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort. You can also try other activities in the area, like swimming, fishing, zipline, and kayaking. Garin Farm is located at Purok 2, in San Joaquin, Iloilo, about one hour from the city. Ride a PUV from Mohon Terminal, get off near San Joaquin Cemetery, and take a tricycle to the farm. The entrance fee is P150 per person.


3. Igbulawan Farm

Where: Barangay Cata-an, San Joaquin, Iloilo


relaxing place in Iloilo

Read a book or sleep in these relaxing spots at Igbulawan Farm.

Image: Igbulawan Farm Facebook page

Those who want to have a restful vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city can also extend their stay at the best place to go in Iloilo—the Igbulawan Farm. The place is the right spot for those who want to stay away from their gadgets and want to have some quiet moments.

The farm has huts made of bamboo and wood to accommodate guests who want to spend overnight. They have picture-perfect spots offering relaxing views of the lush environment in the area. There are tents and private huts to enjoy solitude or quality time with friends and loved ones. Since all are made of native materials, there's abundant fresh air in the rooms that doesn't need an aircon. There are also rooms with a mini pool perfect for the summer.

They also open their place for day visitors. They serve breakfast and coffee from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and lunch from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. They serve native chicken adobo and other home-cooked dishes. Those who want to chase the sunset can relax and chill while enjoying the sights.

Igbulawan Farm is located at Brgy Cata an, San Joaquin. Since the area gets booked quickly, a reservation is best, especially for day visitors. From Mohon Termina, you can ride a bus or jeep via Lawigan and drop off at Brgy. Cataan Plaza then ride a habal-habal or motorcycle to Igbulawan Farm.


4. Bucari Pine Forest

Where: Sitio Tabionan, Bucari Leon, Leon, Iloilo


relaxing place in Iloilo

Unwind at the campsite area of Bucari Pine Forest.

Images: Leon Tourism and Information Center Facebook page (L); Ja Ckie (R)

Another quick getaway spot from Iloilo City is the Bucari Pine Forest, known as Iloilo's summer capital. Surrounded by pine trees, you can enjoy cooler weather while in the area, pitch your tent, or just rent a room. There are also rooms if you want to stay indoors.

With its cooler weather, this relaxing place in Iloilo is a good spot for a night of camping and an early morning hike at their view deck, which offers a picturesque view of the lush environment of Leon Town. The town is just about 30 minutes away from the city proper. Those who don't have a private car can ride the bus from Ungka Terminal or Festive Mall Transport Terminal and get off at Leon Terminal. From there, they can ride a habal-habal to Bucari Pine Forest.


Whether you want to embark on a religious journey or have some peaceful moments, you can find a spot in Iloilo City and its nearby towns.


Visit Yoorekka for more tourist places to visit this Holy Week season!


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About Karen Bermejo
Karen is a writer, a traveler, and a volunteer. Her ultimate dream is to travel the world, master a foreign language, and learn how to swim. To keep her sanity while chasing her dreams, she’s scaling mountains on weekends.
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Disclaimer: All articles in the Consumers Magazine of Yoorekka are for general information and entertainment purposes only. Although careful research has been made in writing them, Yoorekka does not make any warranty about the completeness and accuracy of all information presented in our articles. Our content is not intended to be used in place of legal, medical, or any professional advice.
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