Hello, Hive!
We’re halfway through the year and I can say that, despite some minor hiccups, the first six months of 2023 were nothing but fun memories. From the mountains to the sea, I’ve made unforgettable experiences with beautiful people whom I call friends.
However, I also just realized that James and I have yet to spend some time to ourselves. Which brings me to this post. In hopes of luring him into making some plans (ehem), I’ve decided to write about the last time we escaped our monotonous corporate life and went on a trip to the southeastern part of Cebu.
Into the quaint town of Argao
Argao is a coastal municipality approximately three hours away from Cebu City. Once you reach the town proper, you will instantly see what makes it one of oldest Spanish pueblos in the province. There is a massive plaza called “Cabecera De Argao” surrounded by heritage structures such as the centuries-old Saint Michael the Archangel Parish church, the Capilla Mortuario, and the Hall of Justice.
Of course, James and I did not let the opportunity pass to see these historical spots up close and so we strolled around the quaint town. It was 11 AM and the sun was scorching hot. Good thing there was also a nearby cafe, Cabecera Cafe, which offers tourists a good selection of coffee, tea and snacks
After finishing our ice-cold frappes, we headed out and looked for a motorcycle that would take us to our original destination.
A hidden gem discovered
Did you know that Argao is not only known for its historically rich town center, mouth-watering torta, mythical Balay sa Agta cave, Mt. Lantoy, and Bugasok and Lusno Falls? Completing its set of tourist attractions is the booming Ka Treasure Water Terraces Mountain Resort.
This place was first introduced to the public last April 2021. Two years later, it continues to be one of Argao’s most thriving getaway spot for Cebuanos and non-Cebuanos alike. It even made it to the headlines and recently, was featured in a Korean show titled Battle Trip (Season 2, Episode 16).
But more than its immersive view, what makes Ka Treasure interesting — at least for me — is its humble beginnings. What began as a couple’s farmland dream led to the discovery of a hidden gem. The young owners, Sam and Mary Ann, are ordinary Argawanons who once decided to trade urban living for a life in the mountains. Who would have thought nature has more in store for these two?
The couple's journey was not without challenges. From the lack of manpower, to being hit by typhoon, and finally having to sell their assets, their DIY project required a lot of sacrifices, sweat, patience, and faith. Theirs is not a coincidence nor something simple as luck. I believe Sam and Mary Ann were just led by the universe to the path they didn’t know they were actually meant to walk. And that's something they truly deserve.
A perfect place to de-stress
Ka Treasure Water Terraces Mountain Resort is known for its natural water terraces formation that resembles Abra’s Kaparkan Falls. With its picturesque tiered pools backdropped by nature’s greenery, one could not help but say their oohhs and aahhs.
Guests are given two booking options: day use or overnight stay. James and I decided to book a Friday night so we can enjoy the pools before the busy weekend where there are more people.
During our visit, they only have three available cabins for overnight stay — each priced at Php 1200 for two people (Php 500 per excess head). But the owners seem to have added five more to accommodate more guests. As of the writing, their overnight stay is priced at Php 1400.
If that is still too high, guests can also opt to bring their own tent and simply pay Php 400.
As for day users, entrance fees are priced at Php 100 for adults and Php 50 for kids. Tables and chairs are also available for rent at Php 300. Meanwhile, cottages are priced at Php 1000 (good for 10 to 15 people).
Exploring the multi-tiered pools
Like Durano Eco Farm and Spring Resort, Ka Treasure’s waters come from a nearby spring. Through their DIY project, the owners improved the limestone terraces and cleared the area for better experience. Guests can choose from the 14 pools which range from 2 feet to 8 feet in depth — with the lowest tier being the deepest.
Since James and I went on a weekday, there were only few people swimming on the pools. Luckily, most of them were day users so we got to enjoy the waters to ourselves soon enough.
There are two mini falls connecting the water from the top tier to the lowest. Usually, more people play around in these areas to get a free massage from nature. Obviously, James enjoyed his own back massage.
As for me, I’d say the best time to dip in the pools is early morning. On a good weather, the cool water plus the warm sunlight set the perfect mood for that #sunkissed vibe.
After taking turns snapping photos of each other, James and I spent some quiet time chilling in the pool. It was a much-needed break from all the noise of the city life. There was no unnecessary talks of irate customers or hitting monthly quotas, just happy thoughts in the midst of nature.
If only we could have our own Ka Treasure in the backyard... no day would be blue, right? Fighting! 💪✨
Maria is a hopeless romantic who travels in pages and places. She is an INFP who loves sunrises and moonlight nights and reading books in between. On weekdays, she works for a self-publishing company as a copywriter. On weekends, she lives for life as a poet or hiker. She hopes to share her love for words and the world with you here on HIVE.
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