A quiet cove waiting to be discovered

BATANGAS is synonymous with beaches and family resorts that range in form and function from fabulous to kitsch, from high-end to the bare necessities. Travel the highway that traverses through the town of Nasugbu and you will be met by one billboard after another highlighting the features of this or that resort. Sun worshippers or those just desiring to get away from the frenzy of city life will find a quiet haven in White Cove, the newest resort to open in Nasugbu, Batangas.

White sand

Located 102 km south of Manila, White Cove is a two-hour leisurely drive from Makati. Leave just as dawn breaks via the South Expressway, turn left after the Sta. Rosa exit and drop by one of those inns in Tagaytay to have breakfast with a view. White Cove is more or less 45 minutes away from the city of Tagaytay.

After passing Barangay Wawa, the road slightly curves and soon you find yourselves at the huge gates that lead into White Cove. The resort itself is not entirely brand new; the property was acquired by United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB) in settlement of a loan. Currently, the bank is developing it into a world-class destination for both local and foreign tourists. The previous owner had been cash-strapped and unable to finish some of the buildings and a large portion of the hotel is still currently under construction. However, don't let the unfinished work daunt you. Beyond the gate lies a fabulous stretch of white beach (with sand imported from Boracay) and the clearest, crystal blue waters you will ever set your eyes on.

White Cove has both hotel rooms and condominium units. The hotel will have 16 newly furnished rooms ready for the Holy Week. Benjamin Madlansacay, the hotel's general manager, advises people to book rooms in advance as the rooms go quickly. Hotel rooms are equipped with all the creature comforts-air-conditioners, hot and cold shower and bath. The interiors are lovely and the rooms, cozy. All rooms are at P3,500 per night. The restaurant has a concessionaire that serves buffet breakfast and light meals throughout the day on weekends. For heavier meals, you can hie off to Dalampasigan restaurant, which is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. This restaurant is a charming place and a visual treat in itself. They serve excellent home-cooked comfort food that keep their guests coming back for more.

Condos facing the sea

The condominium units at White Cove are available both for lease or sale to those who are interested in owning vacation units with a lovely view of the sea and a romantic sunset. All units face the sea and have huge picture windows that are perfect for reflection. Fully and tastefully furnished with air-conditioners, refrigerators and cooking ranges, the units allow for cooking so be sure to bring your pots, pans, rice cookers and ingredients. Here is also an area by the beach where you can grill and barbecue to your heart's content.

The units (one or two-bedroom) have spacious living and dining rooms and bedrooms. A one-bedroom unit measures 97 sq m. Rental rates per night are quite reasonable at 3,000 pesos for a studio unit that can accommodate up to four people; a one-bedroom unit that can accommodate six goes for 4,000 pesos and a two-bedroom unit which will accommodate a family of eight rents out at 5,500 pesos.

If after you've soaked in the scenery you're raring for a bit of action, you can rent jet skis or kayaks (single and double). You can also spend a languid afternoon on a solitary balsa. Clearly, amenities are limited as yet at White Cove but the fabulous stretch of sand and sea makes the trip all worth it. This new resort is the perfect destination for a family of water babies who wish to bond minus the distractions of television (that's right, no TV, folks).

Families will certainly enjoy the quiet solitude of the resort, especially on a summer weekday, waking up to a glorious sunrise or strolling along the beach at nightfall under a blanket of stars. On the other hand, if you are a harried city soul, White Cove will make for an ideal retreat from the concrete jungle. Bring all the books you've been hoarding and just read as you bask in the invigorating sea breeze and sunlight. In the evenings, take long, leisurely walks before retiring to the quiet confines of your unit.

The sea, as Anne Morrow Lindbergh once wrote, brings many treasures that lie waiting to be discovered. At this quiet cove, they are yours for the picking.