Trip to Marian Orchard: A Serene Place for Refection

If you're searching for a place to reflect at this coming holy week, then check this place called The Marian Orchard. You can also make this one of your stops if you'll be doing Visita Iglesia near Brgy. Malabanan, Balete, Batangas.

Solemn, peaceful, beautiful - just some of the few words that can describe this place. Located near the Taal Lake, nature lovers will surely enjoy this as plenty of greens can be seen, the wind blowing at your face is fresh and clean; flowers bloom in different colors.

For those who will be venturing this Holy Week, be informed that many flock here also. The entrance is just P20 for a great place. There is a small store/eatery near the entrance if you get hungry. 

Upon entering the gate, you will be greeted with the picturesque view just like the picture above. On its side is a small chapel that can accommodate around 50 persons based on my estimate. Holy Mass is scheduled weekly at 4:30 in the afternoon and during holy occasions.

At the foot of the stairs near the chapel is a stairway to the Stations of the Cross, although you can also see small stations on the way. The path is not that visible so you would want to wander a bit and explore. Here are some views we saw during the walk:

Here's a 'Ruin' from an unfinished building found its way to blend with nature.

The start of the trail seems confusing. But trekking in this small hill is fulfilling and fun as well.

The path of the stations is not that easy, literally. You may want to leave your high heels, bring umbrella, and a bottle of water.

There are also cages with playful monkeys and birds inside it. Make sure to remind the kids not to hurt them. After the stations, you can go to the garden of saints with a few more climb. Here's an interesting signage I saw on my way:

Sa mga mag "syota" - bawal dito maglambingan. Pumunta sa chapel at magdasal, umiwas sa tukso.

Meeting of Angels

In the garden you can find more sacred statues and kids happily playing.

Don't forget to climb the tower to see a breathtaking view of the whole Marian Orchard and of course the famous Taal Lake. You can see the beautiful sunset here and take selfies with a scenic background. There are also displays and statues as you go further in the garden.

The garden is just a few minutes drive from the highway of Lipa city. We went here easily with the use of Google Maps. But be sharp in searching for it because the signage is small and you may miss it.