“One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things." - Henry Miller
Being somewhere straight from your bucket list is already special, but finding a destination that instantly slows down your thoughts is, to me, truly magical. It is rare to come across one — somewhere that could make the world lighter, softer, and more peaceful. However, just recently, I did not expect to find that kind of place again. It was one of those moments where your hopes were completely rewarded. For our simple anniversary celebration, my lover and I decided to try the getaway I discovered online. We spent it at Bamboo Grove Royale, a hidden gem located in Cayang, Bogo City, Cebu.
I believe it hasn’t been noticed by many yet, as it opened only recently. It sits far from the main road, so you’ll need another mode of transportation to get there. We took a tricycle, and the ride itself already felt like a slow transition away from the noise of the town. The moment we arrived, the fresh scent of nature immediately enveloped us. Bamboo decor, winding pathways, and handcrafted furniture filled every corner, perfectly blending with the serene surroundings. After all, it wouldn’t be called Bamboo Grove Royale for nothing.
Before creating this resort, their main expertise was crafting furniture from bamboo under the name Bamboo Grove Furniture. Knowing this, it became clear to me how they were able to bring this exquisite getaway to life. The resort staff were also the ones who crafted the bamboo furniture, which truly captures their versatility. It was as if the place was built to exhibit the splendid artistry they've made.
Also, what made that day even more special was that we were the only visitors, which meant we had the entire resort completely to ourselves. What truly caught my attention were the eco-friendly cabins, designed in a charming triangle shape that felt both unique and refreshing. They are perfect for both overnight stays and daytime celebrations, and I can already imagine us spending a full 24-hour getaway there again someday. They also offer a variety of options, from spacious family cottages to cozy smaller ones, all designed with the same warm and inviting charm.
We only rented a small cottage, since it was only us two. It was located near the pool alongside several other cabins and cottages. As soon as we got in our cottage, we thoughtfully arranged our belongings on the seat and set our food on the table. Then, we took a moment to sit back and savor the fresh air breeze. It was peaceful, and the only things we could hear were the gentle rustle of bamboo and the soft bubbling sound of the pool water. Listening to the calming sound of nature felt like music to our ears.
After a few minutes, we decided to take a short stroll around the area. As I've mentioned, bamboo décor and furniture could be seen in every corner. Even the barrier was also made of woven bamboo, perfectly complementing the overall theme. I believe the place is nestled in a forested area, since trees were visible from the inside. Their furniture studio was also just nearby, which meant resources could easily be sourced from the area.
We were amazed by how uniquely it was designed by the owner. Most resorts nowadays are modern, but this one is an exception. They have managed to use eco-friendly materials and transform them into an aesthetically pleasing space. The bamboo benches and huts are beautiful examples of traditional Filipino design. The cabin roofs were also made from cogon grass, a material traditionally used by locals to create relaxing spaces. Everything reminded me of my childhood in the province, where every house had a nipa hut. Being there felt like being in a place just like home.
And of course, what resort would be complete without splendid pools? The Bamboo Grove Royale has two pools: one near the entrance and the other close to the cottages, where we spent the day swimming. The second pool, with a depth of approximately 3 to 4 feet, is also child-friendly, making it safe for families to enjoy. Spacious, pristine, and tranquil are the words that perfectly describe the setting. By the time we left, we did not take home photos, but a refreshed spirit lingered long after our stay.
If you want to visit the resort, you can locate it on Google Maps by searching for Bamboo Grove Furniture, as it shares the same location as this ecstatic haven. You may drop by the Polambato intersection, where you can easily hail a tricycle heading to Cayang. The ride from the main road only takes about five minutes, so you won’t have to worry about the fare.
A visit to Bamboo Grove Royale will leave you with no regrets. It is perfect for relaxation, celebrations, or any occasion. With the beauty and charm it offers, you would never guess that it actually comes at such an affordable price, making it truly worth visiting. The nature-inspired furnishings, serene pools, and lush surroundings are just the beginning of what you will experience and witness. It is simply a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.