Bulacan continues to unfold as we continue our Lakbay Norte 7 trip from Malolos Historic Town Center. Riding up about one and a half hour north, we reached the banks of the snaking Angat River also knows as the Bulacan River for the San Rafael River Adventure (SRRA). This lush resort by the river resort has a tranquil laid back atmosphere with facilities. The breeze was cool and comforting, the surrounding still and quiet. Yet those who want some adrenaline rush can choose a slew of activities the resort offers.
Water Adventure
San Rafael River Adventure offers kayaking, water bike, stand-up paddle board and jet skis. With only a limited time to spare, I decided to play around with the jet ski. It’s the first time to try this on the river. I thought it was a lot easier without the waves. I had fun doing a few rounds. Their aqua sports equipment looks brand new still. For in-land activities, they also have an ATV to go around the property.
River Cruise
Trying to emulate the feel of Bohol’s famous Loboc river cruise, San Rafael River Adventure also offers a river cruise on a floating cottaged pushed by a small outrigger boat. Currently only a single floating cottage is available. Just the same, meals are served while cruising down Angat river. The meals vary. On our visit we had rice porridge (lugaw) and a few rice cakes (kakanin) as afternoon snacks. The cottage also have a jacuzzi section, an open portion of the floor open where visitors can sit down in the cage enclosure and let the flowing water act as a jacuzzi. Quite pleasant ride I may say.
From Glamping to Glass Houses
We also got to get around the resort to check the accommocations available. For those who enjoy camping, they have glamping available either on floating platforms at the river or on ground. Tents and sleeping cushions are provided. They also have Glass Houses. One we visited was large and can fit at least 10 people inside with several rooms and a veranda. I love the effect of seeing the lush greenery through the walls. A quiet balcony where I can imagine myself reading a book.
San Rafael River Adventure
The riverside resort is continually making improvements to their facility. A heart shaped island was currently being finished when we visited. Their hanging infinity pool though looks lovely. Irregularly shaped, surrounded by trees and has a view of the river below. It would be interesting to experience how it is like to stay here overnight. For the moment we enjoyed the river activities we came for. And surely glad to know this is only about 3 hours away from Manila.
San Rafael River Adventure
Address: Barangay Talacsan, San Rafael, Bulacan, Philippines
Contact: (63) 995 974 6224 (Globe) / (63) 917 924 4546 (Globe) / (63) 919 295 9899 (Smart) / (63) 939 474 8876 (Smart)
Landline: (02) 513 1569
email: [email protected]
visit: www.sanrafaelriveradventure.com
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
