Out of Town Blog
Shepherd’s Ridge Mountain Resort: A Hidden Gem in Santa Maria, Laguna
When it comes to weekend escapes, Metro Manila dwellers usually head to Antipolo or Los Baños for a quick dose of fresh air and greenery. But venture a little farther, past the familiar haunts, and you’ll find a tucked-away treasure in Santa Maria, Laguna (yes, spelled exactly as pronounced to distinguish it from the more famous Sta. Maria, Bulacan). Here, Shepherd’s Ridge Mountain Resort offers a refreshing mix of adventure, slow living, and farm-to-fork dining, making it worth the extra hour or so on the road.
Getting There
From Ortigas Extension in Pasig, drive straight through Manila East Road, cruising past the Pililla Wind Farm’s towering turbines, a roadside spectacle in itself. The journey is marked by winding mountain roads, the sight of occasional local horses grazing on hillsides, and roadside vendors selling seasonal fruits, rattan furniture, and even local moonshine. As the rainy season paints the slopes a lush green, the drive already feels like part of the escape.
The entrance to Shepherd’s Ridge is in Paang Bundok. A short stretch of rough road serves as a prelude to the rustic experience ahead. It’s manageable for most vehicles, though low-clearance cars may find it tricky. What awaits is worth it: guests are greeted by the shade of a giant tree, the first sign of the property’s strong connection to nature.
A Place to Disconnect (Sort Of)
Santa Maria’s mountain-side setting makes mobile data signals sparse, but the resort provides Wi-Fi for essential needs. Families and groups are encouraged to “touch some grass,” reconnect with one another, and take a step back from screens. As the owner explains, the philosophy is rooted in respect for nature and giving children the chance to understand the origins of their food through a mini farm-to-fork experience.
Things to Do
Shepherd’s Ridge isn’t just for quiet reflection. It’s also a playground for adventure seekers:
- Zip-lining and wall climbing
- Archery, airsoft, darts, and billiards
- Trekking and ATV rides
- Bonfires on request
The resort also arranges ATV rides combined with treks to Mabitac Falls (Three Falls). However, visitors are reminded that the local government closes access during heavy rains for safety, as the trail can become dangerously slippery and the river current too strong.
Dining at Don Genaro’s Restobar
Food is at the heart of the Shepherd’s Ridge experience. At Don Genaro’s Restobar, the menu, created in collaboration with the Center for Asian Culinary Studies Research & Development and its alumnae, Executive Chef Mayelle Edades, features a no-pork philosophy. Instead, it highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which come directly from the resort’s gardens planted three to four years ago. Guests can preorder breakfast, and while the kitchen closes at 9:00 PM, the flavors and farm-to-table quality linger long after.
Where to Stay
Shepherd’s Ridge offers a variety of accommodations to suit every kind of traveler. For those craving something unique, the Glamping Domes provide a cozy, Instagram-worthy mountain escape under the stars. Families or groups looking for comfort can opt for the Villas, while couples or friends can enjoy the tropical charm of a Tiki Bungalow. Budget-friendly non-airconditioned rooms are also available, perfect for guests who want a more back-to-basics mountain stay.
The resort can host up to 60 overnight guests comfortably, but the property is expansive enough to welcome over 100 non-sleeping guests—ideal for day trippers or larger gatherings. For those who prefer a rustic experience, camping in tents is also encouraged.
Shepherd’s Ridge also offers team building packages designed to combine adventure, bonding, and relaxation in one setting. Groups of up to 30 participants can avail of curated day tour or overnight packages, making it a top choice for companies, organizations, and even big family reunions.
What to Expect (and Embrace)
This is not the polished resort experience of Tagaytay or Antipolo. Instead, it’s an immersion into provincial mountain life—complete with mosquitoes, ants, and the occasional spider. The water, fresh from natural springs, is abundant. The air is crisp, the nights quiet, and the stars vivid against the dark sky.
Rooted in Community
Managed by Approche Hospitality, Shepherd’s Ridge prides itself on employing 80% of its staff from nearby Mabitac. Beyond offering adventure, the resort aims to serve as an anchor for Santa Maria’s emerging tourism identity. Agriculture is still the town’s backbone, but there is an evident desire to give weary city-goers “a provincial home away from home”—genuine people, fresh food, and landscapes unspoiled by heavy commercialization.
The current mayor, who recently honored six centenarians in town, graced the last evening of the resort’s media tour—further signaling local support for this initiative.
The Essence of Shepherd’s Ridge
Adventure rooted in nature—that’s the philosophy here. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a zip-line, the crackle of a bonfire under the stars, or simply a quiet moment with family surrounded by mountains, Shepherd’s Ridge Mountain Resort delivers a grounded, memorable escape.
So next time you plan a weekend away, look past the usual stops. Santa Maria, Laguna may not yet have the name recognition of Antipolo or Los Baños, but perhaps that’s exactly what makes Shepherd’s Ridge special—a hidden gem waiting for those willing to go a little further.
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Shepherd’s Ridge Mountain Resort: A Hidden Gem in Santa Maria, Laguna
Christine Rodriguez
Out of Town Blog
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