stir-fry: Viaje del Sol (The Way of the Sun)

VIAJE DEL SOL (The Way of the Sun)

The brainchild of Patis Tesoro about 5 years ago, Viaje del Sol represents several destinations in the San Pablo, Laguna and Quezon route. A couple of stops has been added (and taken out) through the years.

Rob and I were able to visit four very nice stops along the Viaje del Sol route last Saturday. Sometimes, the lure of the province is hard to let go of, especially with such great Philippine culture, history, and art. Even with the traffic back to Manila, it was well worth the trip to get the feel of cool, crisp air and the serenity that comes with silence and nature.

CASA SAN PABLO

If you’re looking for ultimate rest and relaxation, Casa San Pablo is the place to go to! Rob and I were able to meet Mommy Vinya, mother of Casa San Pablo's owner Boots Alcantara. According to Mommy Vinya, the 7-hectare land was divided among her and her other 6 siblings. Mommy Vinya's own house lies on sprawling greens very near the Casa San Pablo dining area. A very lovely home, exhibiting country chic in all corners.

Set Meals are at P380/ head.

Overnight stay is P2,500 (3 meals included)

For more information and rates, visit http://www.casasanpablo.com/

UGU BIGYAN POTTERY HOUSE

Ugu Bigyan is an excellent and known potter, whose family's home is open to visitors all day. Some of his works are for sale and you can view the extensive and impressive collection of his pottery. Their home has been designed to accommodate about 50 guests. Lunch is by reservation only, minimum of 10 people at P500 per head. They can accommodate less than 10 people if it just so happens that there has already been a reservation for another group of 10 for the day.

CARLITOS' WORKSHOP

Carlitos Ortega is a metal sulptor and his grandiose home and workshop is also open to the public. Carlito himself is a very fascinating man and you can immediately see and feel his passion for what he does. There is a glow about Carlito when he talks about his art and he is a guy with interesting stories and conversation. Some of his works can also be viewed at Gallery Nine at Megamall. Another highlight of our visit to Carlito's is the rice coffee they serve to guests - superb coffee perfect for after-meals.

Open on Saturdays only, entrance fee is P100 per guest (including coffee).

KUSINA SALUD

Our last stop for the day was the place of the brainchild herself, Patis Tesoro, renowned designer. Kusina Salud is centered mostly on the garden and aviary. A Spanish house is transformed into a colored; rustic-somewhat-modern look. Lunch and dinner is by reservation only (ala carte; during Sundays, buffet is at P399). Modern renditions of classic Filipino food are compliments to the Chef, Paul Poblador. To those who want to visit the place, Kusina Salud is now open all day for merienda and they have currently re-introduced the Salud Spa which offers hand and foot massages and spa.

For more information, visit http://www.kusinasalud.com/