Inspiring Story
The story of Malagos Garden Resort is rooted in the Puentespina family’s fifty-year love affair with nature. What began in 1963 as a small farm in the foothills of Mt. Talomo transformed into a sanctuary of sustainability. Founders Roberto and Charita Puentespina turned a neglected landscape into a thriving ecosystem. Charita’s passion for revitalizing the local cacao industry led to the creation of the world-renowned Malagos Chocolate, turning the resort into a tree-to-bar destination. Today, it stands as a testament to how agriculture and ecotourism can empower local farmers while offering guests a peaceful retreat into Davao’s lush highlands.
Holiday Getaways
Malagos Garden Resort is the ideal escape for families seeking a wholesome retreat, couples looking for a romantic nature-filled hideaway, and nature enthusiasts wanting to immerse themselves in biodiversity. It is a self-contained destination where the pace of life slows down significantly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Immersive nature experience with beautifully maintained gardens.
- Home to the unique Malagos Chocolate Museum.
- Exceptional family-friendly activities like bird shows and petting zoos.
- Peaceful and quiet environment away from urban noise.
Cons:
- Some facilities and room furniture may show signs of wear and age.
- Location is quite far from Davao City proper, requiring longer travel times.
- Public transport to the area can be challenging after sunset.
In-Depth Spotlights: Pricing and Comparison
Malagos Garden Resort offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to spacious family villas. Prices typically range from PHP 4,000 to PHP 9,000 depending on the season and room category. When compared to city-based hotels like Acacia or Park Inn, which prioritize business travelers and urban convenience, Malagos is priced as a premium nature-resort destination. While you might pay less for a standard hotel in downtown Davao, Malagos provides an all-inclusive atmosphere where you are paying for the extensive amenities—bird shows, museums, and expansive park access—that city hotels do not offer.
Customer Reviews
Overall Rating: 9.6/10
- Service: 9.8/10
- Facilities: 9.2/10
- Value for Money: 9.2/10
- Cleanliness: 9.2/10
- Location: Rated highly for tranquility, though distant from the city.
Traveler Problem Solving
If you are worried about the distance from the city, plan a 2-day stay instead of a day trip to avoid the stress of commuting back and forth. If you are concerned about amenities, note that the resort is self-contained—once you are inside, you have access to dining, recreation, and education without needing to leave the gates.
Travel Guide, Safety, and Packing
Travel Guide: Book your stay in advance, especially for weekends.
Safety and Scams: The resort area is generally very safe. Avoid using unofficial “colorum” transport; stick to reputable taxi services or resort-arranged shuttles to avoid overcharging.
Packing Guide: Bring insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes for the gardens, a light jacket for the cooler highland evenings, and sunscreen for daytime park strolls.
Transportation Tips
From Davao City, you can hire a taxi or book a private car for the most comfort. For budget travelers, take a bus or PUJ bound for Calinan from the Ecoland Terminal or designated city streets, then hire a tricycle or habal-habal from Calinan Proper to reach the resort entrance.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and garden tour, visit the Butterfly Sanctuary, and attend the afternoon Bird Show. Dinner at the View Deck Cafe.
Day 2: Morning chocolate-making workshop, visit the Chocolate Museum, followed by a relaxing afternoon at the Chocolate Spa.
Local Food and Attractions
Indulge in local dishes featuring cacao-infused flavors. Nearby, you can explore the highlands of Calinan or continue to the cooler areas of Bukidnon if you are on a road trip. The resort itself is the primary attraction, featuring the Bird Feeding Dome, Koi Ponds, and the Petting Zoo.
Events and Festivals
Davao City’s major festival, Araw ng Dabaw, occurs annually in March. Expect cultural parades, street dancing, and concerts in the city center. During these times, the city is vibrant but crowded, making the resort an even more perfect sanctuary.
Things to Know and Trivia
- The Malagos Bird Show is recognized as the longest-running bird show in the Philippines.
- The resort features the first chocolate museum in the country.
- The name Malagos comes from a local term referring to the misty nature of the area.
Frequently Ask Questions
- Is there an entrance fee for day tours? Yes, and it covers access to several park attractions.
- Are pets allowed? Generally, no pets are allowed due to the protected wildlife.
- Is Wi-Fi available in the villas? Yes, but it is best suited for light browsing.
- How far is the nearest hospital? The nearest medical facilities are in Calinan Proper, about 15-20 minutes away.
- Can I host a wedding here? Yes, it is a premier venue for garden weddings.
- Is the chocolate museum open to the public? Yes, it is a key resort feature.
- Does the resort provide airport transfers? Yes, for a fee upon prior arrangement.
- Is it wheelchair accessible? Mostly, though the hilly terrain can be challenging.
- Are there vegetarian options at the restaurant? Yes, the cafe accommodates various dietary needs.
- Can I pick the flowers in the garden? No, guests are strictly prohibited from picking flora to preserve the park.
