Drinking in the beauty of the woods, feeling the stillness of the lush leaves and trees, while inhaling both the smell of the sizzling French fries in hot oil and the fresh air coming from the woods - makes my heart skip a beat. This is my first time stopping by this aesthetic and charming cabin-type restaurant in the evergreen of Carmen, Cebu, the Balwarte ni Vossing. And the experience was unique and enchanting!
The unforgettable and unplanned stop over at this unique cabin restaurant happened one quiet afternoon when I and my husband went for a road trip in the mountains of Carmen last weekend. Our first stop was the Durano Eco Farm. We didn't plan to have our next stop over somewhere because we decided to just follow the never-ending trees along the road. We were enchanted by the atmosphere of the woods that we wanted to see how long and thick the forest is. We want to see what awaits us at the end of this unwinding road. And here we are, enchanted by the spell of Balwarte ni Vossing!
🌲BALWARTE NI VOSSING🌲
Balwarte from its name which means fortress, a place for defense and security never fails to protect and provides their guest comfort with its delectable food and calming ambiance.
Nestled in the woods of Barangay Corte, Carmen, Cebu Philippines, Balwarte ni Vossing is a famous cabin restaurant that offers cold drinks, delicious food, and a scenic view to anyone who loves road trips in this remote highlands of Carmen.
How did we find it?
Living in the countryside where there are only a few cafes and restaurants I was more than amazed to discover Balwarte ni Vossing in the middle of the forest. My husband continued to drive as we didn't plan to stop by, BUT the mouthwatering smell of French Fries, the aesthetic design of the restaurant, and the tall green trees were calling us to drop by. Who could resist such temptation? We gave in and heed inside!
So let's Go! Let's have a tour! Taraaa!
🌲The facade
A rustic wooden sign tacked on the wooden railings in front of the Cabin says "Diri nata sa Balwarte ni Vossing, Oke kaayo!", (Come to Balwarte ni Vossing, it's so great here!)shows how this cabin warmly welcomes its guests.
The cabin is artistically made of a two-container van, one is for the reception area and the other one is for the kitchen. The vibrant red exterior, the bright lighting and the rustic feel of the facade, and the cozy ambiance of Balwarte will surely make someone feel at ease.
The cabin is an open patio style so one can eat at the front while watching the vehicles that'll pass by or choose upstairs which has the overlooking view of the woods. I ordered the french fries (the smell that enticed me to stop by) and I paired them with coffee. We then went upstairs and wait for our order.
🌲Into the woods
From above the cabin, are the lovely tall woods of Balwarte. The murmurs of the pines and the whispers of all other tall trees make the place placid and tranquil. Every time the wind passes by, you can see how nature dances with it. What an enchanting grand view to look at!
🌲The cabin's rooftop
On the rooftop of the cabin is an open dining area that is good for families and groups of friends. In this part of the Balwarte are tall green pines standing proudly at the side.
I strolled around to see how lovely the woods are and to see more of the beauty of Balwarte.
🌲The Tulay and Tambayan area.
A few steps from the rooftop are the wooden bridge that will lead you to a higher part of the place. The wooden bridge is filled with ornamental plants going to the different dining areas. In every corner of the place, you can find a table for you to eat and relax. The tables and benches made from wood look so simple and raw.
There are also hammocks attached to the trees for the guests to lie down and enjoy the scenery from up above -the branches of the trees touching each other. One will surely doze off by the placid atmosphere and the little cold temperature. What a great way to relax during and or in the middle of someone's road trip.
🌲The Lantawan ni Vossing.
Lantawan is the viewing deck of Balwarte. It is made up of strong woods that are attached to the branches of the trees. The floors, the tables, the benches, and the railings are all made up of wood. Everything is a natural beauty! It's very pleasant to walk on around and relax too! This spot of the Balwarte is soothing. It just felt enchanting where everywhere you look you see the woods. I am curious as to what would it look like at night.
I sat there for a little, forest bathing and had time to ponder how beautiful life is. A few moments later, our fries and coffee were delivered to us. Mhmm. I forgot that I ordered these. I felt full already. The nature, the woods, the tranquility, and the songs of the trees filled my heart, mind, and soul.
It's amazing how the woods whisper magically. So magical enough to recharge you for the work week ahead. So magical that will make you forget your busy life.
📍How to get there?
Follow the enchanting calls of the woods through:
Take a road trip going to the mountains of Brgy. Corte, Carmen, Cebu. Passing through Durano Eco Farm, continue the rides until you meet the tall lovely Pine Trees beautifully lining the side of the streets.
Feel the temperature as it gets colder and follow the calls of the woods. In the hilly part of the ride be surprised to discover a small cabin beside the road. The signage "Balwarte ni Vossing, Deer Forest) will let you know that you have finally arrived at your destination.
"I took a walk in the woods and came out taller"💚
That's it for today's "Into the Woods" enchanting experience Hive. I 🌳🌲 I had a great weekend in the woods.😊
Have a blast!🤗