PinoyEcoFarmer

Balai Buhay is nestled on the slopes of Mt. Bulusan in the province of Sorsogon. The farm is in Baranggay San Roque just a few meters away from the chapel. There is a sloping access road from the main highway leading to the parking area. My brother told me about this place two years ago but I have not had a chance to visit it. Finally, we decided to drop by on our way back from a kayaking trip at the Bulusan Lake.

The farm doubles as a resort complete with a function hall and accommodation that can house about 40 guests. A room costs P1,000 for an overnight stay. A day tour will cost P80 per person with a complimentary drink of cold calamansi juice.

Above: The main house

Above: One of the accommodations

The walkway is laid among rows of calamansi trees. Balai Buhay is also home to ligwan and pukyutan bees (Cerana and Trigona) which produces honey. They sell the harvested honey to visitors (there was no available though honey during the time we were there).

Above: The calamansi orchard

Above: Bees

Above: Beehives made of coconut shells

Assorted herbs are lined on the side of the main house and on the garden. Among the herbs that they grow are chives, malvarosa, oregano, sage, chocolate mint, and Brazilian mint.

Above: Malvarosa (a mosquito repellent)

Above: Chocolate mint

Above: Tarragon (great as tea)

Above: Sage

Above: Brazilian mint

Above: Chives

A small pond containing tilapias and carps can be seen from the balcony of the function hall. The periphery is lined with flowering plants adding to the soothing view.

A neighboring natural pool has an access from the property. The pool is fed by the flowing water from a small stream. Tia Salome (the caretaker) told us that the adjacent natural pool is owned by a German whose wife is a Filipina. Visitors of Balai Buhay may go there for a dip or a swim.

A weekend trip to Balai Buhay will surely be welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of everyday work. It is a laid-back sanctuary for the tired souls who want to be closer to nature.

Above: My son, niece and nephew enjoying our stay.

Above: Tia Salome (the caretaker) you may contact her at 0915-6644460 or Imo Gamba at 0916-5515795

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