Fico’s Garden is a refreshing escape nestled in the footwear capital of the Philippines, offering a serene blend of nature and local charm. Whether you’re in town to shop for the famous Liliw tsinelas or to find a quiet retreat at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, this garden-style stay provides a homey base for your Laguna adventure.
Travel Guide and Tips
Liliw is a town that moves at a slower pace, making it perfect for those who want to disconnect.
Best Time to Visit: Aim for the dry season (December to May). If you want to experience the local culture at its peak, visit during the Liliw Tsinelas Festival held every late April to early May.
What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the cobbled streets, and don’t forget a light jacket; the proximity to the mountain makes the evenings surprisingly cool.
Connectivity: Signal can be spotty in certain garden areas, so download your maps and itinerary for offline use before arriving.
Transportation Tips
Getting to Liliw is a scenic journey through the “Laguna Loop.”
From Manila (Public Transport): Take a bus bound for Santa Cruz, Laguna (Terminals in Buendia or Cubao). From the Santa Cruz terminal, ride a jeepney directly to Liliw.
Alternative Route: You can also take a bus to San Pablo City. From there, take a jeepney to the Liliw terminal.
Private Car: Use Waze or Google Maps to navigate via the SLEX and Calamba exit. The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
Local Getting Around: Tricycles are the primary mode of transport within the town. Standard fares are quite affordable, but always agree on the price before boarding if going to farther attractions like the falls.
Who It Is Best For
Fico’s Garden is an ideal choice for:
Couples: Looking for a romantic, secluded atmosphere surrounded by greenery.
Families: Who prefer a private, “staycation” feel over a traditional busy hotel.
Nature Lovers: Those who enjoy waking up to the sound of birds and a view of Mt. Banahaw.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Tranquil Environment: Very quiet and away from the noise of the main highway. | Limited Accessibility: Requires a short tricycle or car ride to get to the main town center. |
| Aesthetic Grounds: Perfect for photography and relaxing outdoors. | Connectivity: Wi-Fi can be inconsistent in some parts of the garden. |
| Proximity to Nature: Close to cold springs and hiking trails. | Dining Options: On-site food might be limited; you’ll likely need to go to the town proper for dinner. |
Pricing Observations
Fico’s Garden is generally considered mid-range. While it is more expensive than basic guesthouses in the town proper, the price reflects the privacy and garden amenities provided.
Standard rooms usually range from ₱2,500 to ₱4,500 per night.
Prices tend to spike during the Tsinelas Festival and long weekends, so booking at least two weeks in advance is recommended.
Nearby Attractions
St. John the Baptist Church: A stunning red-brick Baroque church that is a landmark of the town.
Gat Tayaw Street: The famous “Slipper Street” where you can find high-quality, handmade footwear at factory prices.
Kilangin Falls / Taytay Falls: Nearby Majayjay (about 15–20 mins away) offers ice-cold natural spring waters.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: A unique historical landmark located in the neighboring town.
Local Food and Tourism Tips
Must-Eat: Visit Arabela for Italian-Filipino fusion in a cozy, low-ceilinged setting, or White House Bistro 1938 for traditional local flavors in a heritage house.
Try the Uraro: Don’t leave without buying a tin of Uraro (arrowroot) cookies, a local delicacy that melts in your mouth.
The Tsinelas Hack: When buying footwear, check the side streets off Gat Tayaw for even lower prices and more unique designs compared to the main road shops.
First Person Review
“Waking up at Fico’s Garden felt like being in a different era. The air is so much crisper here than in Manila. I spent my morning just sitting on the porch with a coffee, watching the mist roll off the mountain. It’s not a five-star luxury resort with gold-plated faucets, but it has a ‘soul’ that you don’t find in big hotels. If you’re stressed and just need to hear the wind in the trees, this is the place. Just bring a power bank and some snacks, as the town center is a bit of a trek if you don’t have your own car.”
