Bataan, a province rich in history and natural beauty, offers a variety of experiences for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. During our recent NLEX Lakbay Norte trip, we had the pleasure of staying at two remarkable accommodations: Country Pool Villas and Verde Azul Leisure Club. Each offered its unique charm, making our time in Bataan an unforgettable journey.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape with cultural flair or a simpler, beachside retreat, Bataan has something to offer. These accommodations provided a welcoming environment that made our trip truly special—despite the storm that hit the region that week.
So if you are heading to Bataan and are looking for a place to stay, consider these two as your home away from home.
A European-Asian fusion at Country Pool Villas
On our first night, we found ourselves at Country Pool Villas, a unique resort that blends European and Asian influences in its architecture and design. Located in Abucay, this resort offers stunning structures and attention to detail, creating an atmosphere that feels both exotic and familiar.
The centerpiece of Country Pool Villas is its towering replica of the Eiffel Tower, standing tall in the middle of the establishment. This iconic feature, along with a classic red UK telephone booth, brings a touch of Europe to the resort. The rooms and villas are equally captivating, a delightful mix of European elegance and Asian serenity. Some of the villas are inspired by the beauty of Bali, offering a serene escape for guests looking to unwind.
We stayed in a cozy loft-type room that provided a spacious and comfortable retreat, especially with the stormy weather keeping us indoors. The loft’s design, with its ample space and warm décor, offered a perfect sanctuary from the rain. While our particular villa did not have a pool, we admired the European-inspired villas that boasted private pools, adding an extra layer of luxury to the stay.
One of the most delightful aspects of our visit was the company of the resort’s resident dogs. These friendly canines, especially a playful puppy named Pogoy, added a homely and welcoming touch to our stay. Their cheerful presence was a highlight, bringing smiles and warmth even on the rainiest of days. They even accompanied the resort staff when they delivered breakfast to our room the next day. Such cuties!
Coastal comfort at Verde Azul Leisure Club
For our second night in Bataan, we moved to the Verde Azul Leisure Club in the coastal town of Morong. Verde Azul offers a more laid-back experience, perfect for travelers who appreciate a straightforward, comfortable stay by the sea.
The resort’s standout feature is undoubtedly its stunning swimming pool, which serves as the heart of the property. Centrally located, the pool is a refreshing element, inviting guests to relax and soak up the tropical sun (though, as mentioned, the sun didn’t show up during our stay–a real bummer!). The clear waters and inviting ambiance make it a favorite spot for both relaxation and fun, especially for families with children or a big group of barkada.
While the storm raged outside, the cozy confines of Verde Azul offered a comforting refuge. The sound of the rain and the not-so-gentle swaying of the trees on the property created an interesting backdrop, allowing us to enjoy the serene ambiance of the resort despite the inclement weather.
The proximity to the beach is another major draw of Verde Azul. Just a short stroll from the resort, the beach presents a nice stretch of sand and strong waves. While the resort might not be overly luxurious, it has all the essentials for a pleasant stay: clean and comfortable rooms, friendly and accommodating staff, and an on-site restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.
