Escape to Paradise: Uncover the Hidden Gem of Erlittop Nature Lodge, Philippines
Escape to Paradise: Erlittop Nature Lodge - Is It Worth It? (A Totally Unfiltered Review Because Life's Too Short for Perfect)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans on Erlittop Nature Lodge. Forget those perfectly curated Instagram pics – you're getting the real deal. And you’re getting it all, from the actual experience of getting there to the… well, everything, that goes on after you arrive. I'm talking raw opinions, messy thoughts, and maybe a few tangents. Welcome to the chaos!
First, the Basics (and the Dreaded Accessibility):
Okay, let's rip the band-aid off – Accessibility. This is where Erlittop starts to wobble. The review says facilities for disabled guests are available. But, let's be brutally honest, the Philippines isn’t exactly known for its ultra-accessible anything. I’d strongly recommend contacting the lodge directly before booking, especially if you have mobility issues. I didn't personally investigate this, so I can't give a definitive answer. It's something you REALLY need to clarify. The exterior corridors made me think there’s at least some hope, but don’t just take my word for it.
Anyway, getting there. Ugh. Airport transfer is listed, thank goodness! (Otherwise, good luck wrestling a tricycle with your luggage). Free car parking is also a huge plus if, you're driving, which is another whole experience – Philippine roads are… an adventure.
Once You're Actually There: The Good Stuff!
Rooms: Air-conditioned rooms? YES. Free Wi-Fi in ALL rooms? Hallelujah! (More on the internet later, though.) You’ve got your basic stuff, like, uh, safety deposit boxes and complimentary tea. Bathrobes and slippers? Nice touch! Interconnecting rooms? Great for families. And the soundproofing? Crucial. I need soundproofing. Especially when you're dealing with tropical wildlife that thinks 3 AM is happy hour.
The Internet (A Love/Hate Relationship): Free Wi-Fi in all rooms is a HUGE selling point. And for the most part, it works. But let's be real: you're in the Philippines, not Silicon Valley. Don't expect lightning-fast speeds. Be prepared for the occasional buffering. You're in paradise, people! Disconnect! But, you need to check your emails, I get it. Internet [LAN] is also an option which is good, but it kinda defeats the purpose of paradise, right?
Things to Do (and Ways to Relax): Okay, this is where Erlittop shines. Seriously, you have options. A Swimming pool [outdoor] with a pool with a view? HELL YES. Imagine yourself, a cool drink in your hand, gazing out over the tropical landscape… Bliss. And the Spa? I’m talking Body scrubs, wraps, massages, and a sauna. Listen. I spent a solid afternoon holed up in the spa. I emerged feeling like a new person. Actually, I'm pretty sure I shed skin. It was glorious. The poolside bar? Another must-do. Grab a cocktail, a book, and just be. They also offer a Fitness center which is a pleasant surprise. I didn't use it. Oops!
Dining and Drinking (Let's Get Foody!): The options are vast. Asian cuisine? Check. Western cuisine? Check. Vegetarian restaurant? Check. Breakfast [buffet]? Double-check! I'm a breakfast person, and the buffet was a delightful spread of fruits, pastries, and the usual suspects. They also have a coffee shop which is ideal for caffeine lovers like me, of course. The restaurants offer a la carte options but if you’re like me, you’ll probably just stick to the buffet. And don't forget the snack bar! Perfect for those poolside munchies. Seriously, food is covered. The poolside bar does the trick for the most important drinks of the day.
A Quick Food Aside: One night in the restaurant I ordered the soup. Delicious. Didn't even know what kind of soup it was (maybe chicken and love?) but it hit the spot.
Cleanliness & Safety (Because These Things Matter Now): This is where Erlittop gets serious props. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and room sanitization between stays? YES, YES, YES. They're taking hygiene seriously. Hand sanitizer everywhere, staff trained in safety protocol. It gave me peace of mind. They also do hot water linen and laundry washing.
The Services and Conveniences (And the Little Annoyances):
The Good Stuff: Concierge, daily housekeeping, laundry service (thank goodness!), and 24-hour front desk. The gift/souvenir shop is a must-browse for treasures. Also, indoor and outdoor venue for special events, in case you're planning a wedding. Seriously, it’s all pretty well sorted, if I’m honest.
Things That Could Be Better: While they have air conditioning in the PUBIC AREA, I sometimes wondered if they could be more helpful with getting a cash withdrawal done: it's on their menu, I believe. The is a luggage storage.
For the Kids (and the Kid in You):
They're family/child friendly, and the babysitting service is a HUGE plus.
The Perks You Might Overlook (But Shouldn't):
- Couple's Room: Perfect for a romantic getaway.
- Car Park [free of charge]: Saves you money and stress.
- Non-smoking rooms: Crucial for those of us who appreciate clean air.
- Front Desk [24-hour]: Peace of mind, anytime.
- Valet Parking: If you're feeling fancy.
The Verdict (Is It Worth It?):
Look, Erlittop Nature Lodge isn’t perfect. The Internet can be a little flaky (but hey, that’s life). But the pros massively outweigh the cons. The location is stunning, the staff is friendly, the food is good, and the facilities are top-notch (especially the spa!). It's a place where you can genuinely disconnect, relax, and recharge. It’s got plenty of what you want. It's a solid choice.
My Completely Biased Recommendation (And a Special Offer for YOU, Because I Like You):
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Indonesian Paradise Found: Luxury Awaits at Arion Hotel!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your perfectly curated Instagram feed. This is… real travel. To Erlittop Nature Lodge, Philippines. And frankly? I have absolutely no idea how it's going to go. But here goes.
Erlittop Nature Lodge: A Chaotic Love Letter
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Dread (and Mosquitoes)
Morning: The Flight From Hell (and Manila's Traffic)
Ugh. Manila traffic. It's legendary. I swear I aged a decade just getting from the airport to the bus terminal. The bus itself? Let's just say the air conditioning was… optimistic. Found myself sweating in places I didn't know I could sweat. But hey, at least I got a front-row seat to the chaos. Beautiful, chaotic, and utterly fascinating. The sun was scorching, the smells were potent (mango and exhaust fumes, a potent combo), and I swear I saw a chicken riding on the roof of a jeepney. Or maybe I was delirious from the heat. Either way, 10/10 would travel again just for the experience.
Afternoon: The Lodge & The Uninvited Guests
Finally! Erlittop. Honestly? It’s even more stunning than the pictures. Lush, green, the air thick with the promise of… something. Maybe adventure. Maybe a jungle cat. Maybe malaria. Okay, I'm probably overthinking it. But those mosquitos? They’re vicious. I’m already covered in bites. They’re attacking me like I'm a walking buffet. The lodge itself is great though. Simple, rustic, charming. The staff were super friendly. One guy, Jun, showed me to my room. He seemed as happy as a clam, so I think I'll be alright for the duration of the trip.
Evening: Dinner, Disappointment, and the Sky of a Thousand Stars
Dinner was – and I'm being honest here – a bit of a letdown. The chicken adobo was fine. But my expectations were sky-high after the bus ride, and I guess I'd built up this fantasy of the most incredible meal ever. However, the view? Oh. My. God. I've never seen so many stars. It felt like I could reach out and touch them. It was absolutely breathtaking and completely worth the underwhelming meal. Maybe I can find a decent snack later.
Day 2: Waterfall Woes and a Trail of Tears?
Morning: Waterfall Hike and a Near Death Experience (Exaggeration Alert!)
They said it was a "gentle hike" to the waterfalls. They lied. Okay, maybe I’m dramatic. But that trail was slippery, muddy, uphill, and I was pretty sure a snake was trying to eat my left ankle. (It was probably just a root, but in my defense, my nerves were shot.) After finally reaching the waterfall, I was relieved. The water was cold and refreshing, but also…there were about 100 people there, and the idyllic waterfall image I'd imagined wasn't quite panning out. A young child splashed water on me, I nearly slipped on a hidden stone, and I realized I forgot my camera. I spent a good 10 minutes just staring at the water, thinking about everything that had been going wrong since my arrival. I'd come to see the beauty of nature but all I could see was the flaws, the challenges, the annoyances. Maybe I was just homesick. So I came back to my room. I hope I can get over all this soon.
Afternoon: Quiet Reflection…and Ice Cream!!
After the waterfall fiasco, I needed a break. I retreated to my room, which was a good decision because I almost cried. I felt so overwhelmed by my feelings. I was disappointed but also incredibly grateful for the experience. So I sat on the verandah, watched the clouds drift by, and ate a massive block of ice cream. Simple pleasures, right?
Wait, there's more. There was a local shop that sold amazing mango ice cream. Seriously, the best ice cream I've ever tasted. It's probably the only reason I didn't pack my bags and head home.
Evening: Dinner 2.0 and Newfound Hope
Dinner tonight was, thankfully, much better. I tried the kinilaw (raw fish in vinegar and spices) and it was incredible. Perhaps the earlier disappointment was just a blip. Perhaps I was starting to get the hang of this whole "traveling" thing. I met some other travellers, shared a few laughs, and even managed to resist the urge to complain about the mosquitos. Progress!
Day 3: Caves, Coffee, and a Glimmer of…Joy?
Morning: Cave Exploration and Bat Encounters
Today, the caves. Dark, damp, and full of bats. Really, a lot of bats. Like, thousands of bats. I'm not gonna lie, I'm pretty terrified of bats (yes, I'm a walking contradiction). The guide was awesome, though, a young guy named Leo, who made me laugh and distracted me from the impending bat-apocalypse. The caves themselves were magnificent. Awesome looking stalactites and stalagmites, and it was all a bit dizzying, but pretty cool.
Afternoon: Coffee, Conversation, and a Moment of Peace
After the cave adventure, I needed caffeine. Badly. Thankfully, there was a little coffee shop near the lodge that served the most delicious local brew. I sat there, sipping my coffee, watching the locals go about their lives, and just breathed. I even had a conversation with the woman who owned the shop. She told me about her life, her dreams, her struggles. And, for the first time since I'd arrived, I felt a genuine connection. And more than that, it's the first time I felt at peace.
Evening: Farewell Feast and a Promise to Return
Tonight's dinner was a farewell feast. The staff prepared a special meal for everyone, and the air was filled with laughter. The food was spectacular, The music was dancing, and the memories of all the ups and downs flashed through my mind. I felt like I'd evolved in the past few days, learned to go with the flow, and start appreciating the things that make traveling awesome. I can honestly say that I'll be back.
Honestly? Erlittop was far from perfect. The food wasn't always great, the mosquitos were relentless, and I spent a good portion of my time wanting to quit. But hidden in the chaos of it all were moments of sheer, unadulterated beauty, kindness, and connection. And that, my friends, is what I'll remember. Now if you'll excuse me, I need a nap. And maybe some more ice cream.
Escape to Paradise: Erlittop Nature Lodge FAQs (Because I'm Still Unpacking My Brain)
Okay, spill. Is Erlittop *really* paradise, or just a fancy Instagram filter?
Alright, deep breath. Paradise is... a loaded word, isn't it? Look, Erlittop? Yeah, it's pretty damn close. It's not a perfectly curated, airbrushed version of reality. My first thought when I got there? "Wow, that bamboo bridge actually *swings* a little more than I'd hoped." Seriously, I almost ate the dirt. But the view? Unforgettable. The air? So clean I felt my lungs actually *rejoicing*. The sounds? Pure, unadulterated nature. No, it's not some plastic, perfect utopia. It's real. And real, in this case, means breathtakingly beautiful AND a little rough around the edges. Think a glorious, slightly chaotic, delicious, Filipino feast.
Honestly? I’d go back. Not just to admire the view, but because of the *feeling*. It's like... you shed a layer of city stress. You stop worrying if your hair's perfect (because, let's be honest, mine never is) and actually just *breathe*. So, yeah, paradise-adjacent. Definitely.
The website says 'immersive jungle experience'. Is that code for "prepare to be eaten by bugs and have your sanity slowly chipped away"?
Okay, let me level with you. The bugs? They're there. They're unavoidable. I'm pretty sure one of those tiny little jeepney-esque cicadas *personally* serenaded me every blessed morning. And mosquito? Oh, yes. Bring repellent. Bring EVERYTHING. I swear, they’re like tiny, buzzing little vampires. But is your sanity chipped away? No. Maybe a tiny bit. But the beauty is, you're so busy marveling at the waterfalls and the sunsets, you kinda forget the itch. The immersion is *real*. You're surrounded by life. Vibrant, noisy, buzzing, crawling life. Think of it as… a free, if somewhat bitey, nature documentary.
One evening, I was sitting on my balcony, watching these fireflies dance. Thousands of them. Lit up the whole damn forest. And yeah, a mosquito *did* nail me just as I was about to have some profound epiphany about the interconnectedness of everything, but I still remember that moment. It was worth the bite, I swear. Mostly.
What's the food like? Because I'm a picky eater, and also, I'm always hungry.
The food... Okay, this is where Erlittop truly shines. Now, I'm not gonna lie, I have the diet of a toddler. But OMG. The food! Mostly Filipino cuisine, and mostly all cooked with fresh ingredients grown right there. The staff are so unbelievably welcoming and they clearly love what they do. My first meal? Sinigang. *The* best I’ve ever had. I'm talking flavor explosions that made me want to cry (happy tears, people!). The portions are generous. The freshness is undeniable. And the view from the dining area? Unbeatable. Even my fussy eater self was converted. I was eating stuff I wouldn't normally touch, and *loving* it. The fresh fish was a dream. The vegetables tasted like actual vegetables, not the sad, watery imitations you get in the supermarket. Just… go hungry. Go VERY hungry.
And a pro-tip: Learn a few basic Filipino phrases. "Masarap!" (delicious!) will be your most used word. Trust me.
Tell me about the rooms. Are we talking luxury, glamping, or... well, something else?
The rooms are comfortable and rustic. You're NOT going glamping, in the conventional sense. Think more "eco-lodge chic meets charmingly basic." Don't expect marble bathrooms and heated towel racks. Do expect comfortable beds, mosquito nets (thank GOD), and a balcony with a view that will make your jaw drop. One of the main things about the experience is that you are very immersed in nature. Therefore, you have to be aware that there might not be AC (the mountain air does a good job) or super strong Wi-Fi. But the lack of these things is actually a plus. No distractions, no noise. Just you, the view, and maybe a gecko judging you from a corner. (I may or may not have named my resident gecko "Gerald.")
My room? It had a balcony overlooking the valley. I spent hours there, just watching the clouds roll by. Pure bliss. They have a beautiful, huge main structure where the restaurant is and a number of very well-kept cabins as well. There is nothing luxurious about the cabins, but that's the beauty of it. You are in nature. You're supposed to be enjoying the experience instead of taking selfies in a fancy bathroom.
What activities are available? Do I have to hike? Because... stairs are hard.
Okay, yes, there’s hiking. There are waterfalls that beckon. There are trails to explore. Stairs? Yes, some stairs (Erlittop is on a mountain, after all!). But it’s not all hardcore climbing. The staff can tailor activities to your fitness level. You can do a gentle stroll to a nearby viewpoint. You can take a dip in the natural pools (absolutely heavenly, warning: cold!). You can just sit on your balcony and read a book (my favorite!). I mostly did the latter, because I’m a champion napper. I'm not going to lie, I made an effort to experience a hike. I nearly died. Just kidding… maybe. The view was worth it. But I took a solid two naps after.
There's also birdwatching. Because the place is a total haven of birds. And that feeling of a complete disconnection from the world is worth every inch of the stairs and every bead of sweat. Don't let a fear of exercise ruin your time there. If you’re like me and prefer a slower pace, there’s plenty to enjoy without breaking a sweat.
What's the best time to visit?
The dry season, typically November to May, is ideal. You'll have sunny skies and less chance of torrential downpours that might ruin your hiking plans. Although, I went in the shoulder season, and the rain was… dramatic. It made everything even greener and the waterfalls even more powerful! So, honestly? Anytime. Just pack accordingly. And be prepared for some humidity.
I’d say the best time really depends on your tolerance for rain and your love for rainbows. I prefer a bit of rain, personally. Something about the air smells… *alive* after a tropical downpour.
Is it good for solo travelers? Because I'm thinking of going alone.
Absolutely! Erlittop is a great place for solo travelers. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. You'll quickly feel like you’re part of aDelightful Hotels
