Escape to Paradise: Chateau de Nazarene's Mountaintop Tuba Getaway!

Chateau de Nazarene, Mountainside Staycation Tuba Philippines

Escape to Paradise: Chateau de Nazarene's Mountaintop Tuba Getaway!

Escape to Paradise: Chateau de Nazarene's Mountaintop Tuba Getaway! - A Frankly Honest Review (with Tuba-Shaped Tears of Joy)

Alright, folks, buckle up. This isn't your average vanilla hotel review. This is about the Chateau de Nazarene's Mountaintop Tuba Getaway, and trust me, it's an experience. They call it "Escape to Paradise", and honestly? They're not entirely wrong. Although, as a slightly neurotic travel blogger with a penchant for perfectly-plated pho, even paradise needs a good once-over. Especially when there's a potential for rogue tubas involved.

First Impressions (and a Slight Altitude Sickness Scare)

Getting there is an adventure in itself. The Chateau, perched atop what feels like the roof of the world, requires a winding journey. The car park [free of charge] is… well, it’s a parking lot on a mountain. But hey, free, right? And the airport transfer is a godsend. Let me tell you, those hairpin turns after a long flight… shudders. The elevator (yes, they have one!) is a welcome sight after the initial ascent. Facilities for disabled guests are present, which is great, but navigating the sheer drop-offs of the outdoor areas might be another story. I'd say, ring ahead and ask for the most accessible route.

The view? Unbelievable. Seriously. Like, jaw-on-the-floor, Instagram-breaking pool with view type unbelievable. You can practically taste the clean mountain air. And the Chateau itself? Picture a fairytale castle, but with Wi-Fi. Yes, thank the heavens: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And Internet access – wireless everywhere! But honestly, the Wi-Fi for special events and Internet – LAN availability is a bit overkill for a TUBa Getaway. Unless, I guess, you're streaming tuba lessons. I didn't.

The Room: My Little Mountain Fortress

My room? Non-smoking (thank god, I'm a reformed chimney!), with a window that opens (essential for feeling connected to the… well, the mountain), and a seating area perfect for indulging in guilt-free snacking (thanks, mini bar!). The air conditioning was a lifesaver – mountain air can be deceiving; it can get toasty even up there. There’s complimentary tea and free bottled water (always a win), alongside a coffee/tea maker! The extra long bed was comfy, and the bathrobes felt legitimately luxurious. Daily housekeeping kept things squeaky clean, though I confess, I left a mountain of empty cookie wrappers on the table (don't judge me – altitude!).

I'm going to admit – and this is something I'm not always good at – I love a good bath. The availability of a bathtub with hot water (and complimentary toiletries!) was a MAJOR plus. I’d also really like to compliment the slippers because when you are in a bathrobe with slippers on, well, it is the very definition of relaxation. Also, the alarm clock and wake-up service were helpful, though I was always up anyway, thanks to the… excitement.

The Tuba Factor (and Other Things to Do)

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room (or, potentially, the tuba in the lobby): the Tuba Getaway. I’m not a tuba aficionado. My musical experience peaked in third grade with a truly disastrous recorder recital. But, the seminars and meetings (including tuba lessons? I'm not entirely sure) are, I’m told, the main draw for some. I found myself wandering over there out of curiousity. There was a whole event happening! Meetings and seminars were going on, audio-visual equipment for special events was set, and Projector/LED display were all ready.

Let’s be real, I was more interested in the other things to do that involved less… brass. Like, the swimming pool [outdoor] (and the Pool with view). It’s gorgeous. Swimming pool is there too. The spa/sauna is a real treat. I indulged in a massage and felt all my mountain anxieties melt away. The body scrub was so good I felt like I’d been polished! Body wrap? Fantastic. And there’s a fitness center if you have the energy after all that pampering, though I mostly stuck to the sauna and steamroom - Spa is present and spa/sauna is as well!

Food, Glorious Food (and a Couple of Hiccups)

The dining situation is pretty solid. There are restaurants. A bar. Poolside bar. And, naturally, a Coffee shop! They offer Breakfast [buffet] (though I'm not a huge fan of the scramble for eggs - but Asian breakfast is an option!). Breakfast service and room service [24-hour] are available, which is great for those late-night cravings. Western breakfast is also available!. Then there is Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant. There’s a vegetarian restaurant (hallelujah!), and a la carte in restaurant. The desserts in restaurant are particularly tempting (and they had a chocolate fountain. Need I say more?).

Now, the food is generally excellent, but there were a couple of hiccups. One day, the salad in restaurant was a bit…brownish. And the soup in restaurant was… well, let's just say it tasted like sadness. Another time I had to complain that the bottle of water wasn't brought with my meal. The alternative meal arrangement comes in handy often enough. The Happy hour is a welcome addition, and the snack bar has some pretty interesting options. Also, a bit of a heads-up: the service can be slow, especially during peak hours. Bring a book/a friend/a LOT of patience. And the bottle of water is available! The staff seemed rather cheerful, though.

Cleanliness, Safety, and the Existential Dread of COVID (handled well!)

Okay, here’s where the Chateau really shines. They’ve clearly taken the pandemic seriously. Staff trained in safety protocol, daily disinfection in common areas, hand sanitizer everywhere. They use Anti-viral cleaning products. Rooms sanitized between stays. The safe dining setup feels safe, and everything is pretty good!. I saw Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, and individually-wrapped food options. Cashless payment service is also available and check-in/out [contactless]. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter is in place. Professional-grade sanitizing services are clearly happening. I'm now pretty sure the sterilizing equipment is pretty intense too! Room sanitization opt-out available if you’re picky. Hygiene certification is displayed. The CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property is there!

Service and Amenities: The Little Things That Matter

The concierge is incredibly helpful, the doorman is always greeting with a smile. Dry cleaning, laundry service, ironing service, and daily housekeeping are all available (and efficient). Then there is luggage storage. Cash withdrawal. Currency exchange is available as well. The front desk [24-hour] is there. I did not take advantage of the babysitting service, but the fact that it is there is a plus! Family/child friendly is also a plus. There are Kids facilities and a Kids meal. I did see the gift/souvenir shop and convenience store and shrines.

Accessibility

While the Chateau has some accessible features (like an elevator), I'd rate accessibility as moderate. Some areas, particularly outdoors, could present challenges for wheelchair users. Always call ahead and discuss your needs to ensure a comfortable stay.

The Verdict (and a Heartfelt Plea)

The Chateau de Nazarene's Mountaintop Tuba Getaway is a truly unique experience. It's a beautiful place with stunning views, a good spa, and a genuine commitment to safety and comfort. There are definitely areas that need improvement, but at the end of the day? I'd go back. Even if the tubas are still playing.

Here's My Honest Take: It's a solid 8/10. And the tuba tears? Mostly happy.

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Chateau de Nazarene, Mountainside Staycation Tuba Philippines

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, 'cause this ain't gonna be your picture-perfect Instagram itinerary. We're diving headfirst into a staycation at Chateau de Nazarene in Tuba, Benguet, and trust me, it's gonna be a glorious, hot-mess adventure.

Day 1: Arrival, Altitude Adjustment (and Anxiety!)

• 1:00 PM: The Great Escape (from civilized life - Manila)
  • Okay, first, getting out of Manila is always a battle. Traffic, the soul-crushing heat… it’s a whole vibe. But! We finally escape the city gridlock! Finally, we are on our way! The car is packed with the essentials (snacks. Lots of snacks) and the promise of fresh air.
• 5:00 PM: Mountain Road Mayhem
  • The drive up is… intense. Twisty roads, steep inclines… my stomach is currently doing acrobatic feats. Apparently, Benguet loves its hairpin turns. My co-pilot (bless her, she's reading a romance novel, totally unfazed) keeps pointing out stunning vistas. I'm too busy clinging for dear life and praying to the car gods.
• 6:30 PM: Chateau de Nazarene - We Made It! (Mostly)
  • Finally! We arrive! Honestly, the chateau is even more breathtaking in person. It’s like a fairytale castle plopped onto a mountainside. But the air, oh the air! Thin as paper. I’m already huffing and puffing just from carrying my bag. Time to unload, settle in.
• 7:30 PM: Room Revelations (and a Mild Panic Attack)
  • Our room is cozy. The view from the balcony is… incredible. Clouds are literally kissing the mountains. But also, I'm starting to feel the altitude. Headachy. Little dizzy. Am I gonna be sick? Should I be sick? Deep breaths, people. Deep breaths. Think positive thoughts. I have to remind myself that the entire schedule revolves around me having a blast.
• 8:30 PM: Dinner - A Foodie Adventure (or a Food Fight?)
  • The hotel restaurant is charming. Ordered a cheesy pasta and fried chicken. And then, the sun set, the clouds, and… a sudden downpour! Thunder. Lightning! The whole sky just opened up! Amazing
  • Also, the food? Decent. But after the altitude and the crazy drive and the… the storm… My brain just couldn't handle anything complex.
  • Post-dinner? Attempted a walk. Nope. Altitude got me. Crashed.

Day 2: Reaching for the Stars (and Maybe Vomit)

• 7:00 AM: Sunrise Spectacular (and a Grumpy Awakening)
  • Woke up to a mind-blowing sunrise. That alone almost made the trip worth it. The sky was burning with color. It was breathtaking. But also, I'm still a bit foggy-headed from the altitude. Coffee, STAT!
• 8:00 AM: Breakfast - A Carb-Loading Fiesta
  • Breakfast: eggs, toast, bacon, and a ton of coffee. Fueling up for… whatever this day throws at me. Am I the only one who thinks bacon should be a whole food group?
• 9:00 AM: Mountain Hike (the planned one)
  • So, the plan was to hike to a waterfall. But. Let's be real. After the altitude struggles yesterday, I'm thinking a leisurely stroll around the hotel gardens might be more my speed. My co-pilot, however, is a mountain goat. She’s off to challenge the slopes. I'm content with the occasional peek at the postcard views, and maybe just a little envy.
• 11:00 AM: Spa Time - Pure Bliss (for an hour, anyway)
  • The hotel spa is heavenly. An hour-long massage. My tense muscles finally relax. This is what life is supposed to be about. The masseuse is incredibly skilled and probably thinks I'm a walking, talking stress ball. I don't care.
• 12:00 PM: Lunch - Fueling the Soul (and the Stomach)
  • Lunch: A light meal after the massage. Some salad and a sandwich. Simple, but satisfying. I'm so relaxed, I could probably sleep standing up.
• 1:00 PM: Waterfall Adventure (the unplanned one)
  • Okay, so my co-pilot has conquered the waterfall and is raving about it. I look at my comfy chair. I look at the majestic views from the hotel. I finally cave in. "Alright, maybe I can!"
  • The hike. OH. MY. GOD. Uphill. Rocks. Mud. My heart, I thought it's gonna leap out of my chest. But then, the waterfall. The thunderous roar, the chill mist, the sheer… power. Totally worth it. Absolutely incredible.
• 3:00 PM: Hot Chocolate and Reflection (and a Nap. Maybe.)
  • Back at the hotel, wrapped up in a blanket on the balcony, sipping hot chocolate, staring at the view, and feeling like a new person. This trip? It’s good for my soul. And, yes, a nap is absolutely in order.
• 7:00 PM: Dinner and Stargazing (weather permitting)
  • Dinner: another lovely meal. Tonight, we're hoping for clear skies and stargazing. No promises, though. Mountain weather is fickle.
  • 9:00 PM: Stargazing. (or rather, Cloud Gazing…)
    • Yup. Clouds. They're absolutely gorgeous clouds. Big, fluffy ones, blocking all the stars. I guess we are cloud-gazing. Beautiful, nonetheless.

Day 3: Farewell and a Touch of Melancholy (and More Snacks!)

• 7:00 AM: Another Sunrise (Because, Why Not?)
  • Woke up again to a sunrise. Still fantastic. Still dizzy. Still loving it.
• 8:00 AM: Breakfast - Last Stand
  • Breakfast. Filling up on all the good stuff, knowing that back in the city, the food choices will probably be… less amazing
• 9:00 AM: Souvenir Shopping (because, postcards!)
  • Buying postcards, I love the idea of sending some to my friends!.
• 10:00 AM: Check-out and the Long Goodbye
  • Checking out is always bittersweet. I wish I could stay longer.
• 11:00 AM: The Drive Down (and the inevitable traffic)
  • The drive down is a reverse of the drive up. Still twisty, still perilous in places. Still praying. Still hoping for a nap.
• 1:00 PM: Snack Stop (it's mandatory)
  • Stopping for snacks. Gotta have the carbs. Gotta have the caffeine. Gotta have everything.
• 5:00 PM: Manila - Back to Reality (and Planning the Next Escape)
  • Back in Manila. The heat, the noise, the chaos… My heart aches with a mixture of exhaustion and contentment. I'm already planning our next trip. Benguet, you have my heart (and my aching muscles). See you again soon (hopefully not as ill-prepared!).

So, there you have it – a chaotic, imperfect, gloriously human account of my staycation. Remember, the best trips are the ones you remember, the ones where you laugh at your own screw-ups and celebrate the small joys. And, let's be honest, where you eat ALL the snacks.

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Chateau de Nazarene, Mountainside Staycation Tuba Philippines

Escape to Paradise: Chateau de Nazarene's Mountaintop Tuba Getaway! - FAQs (Because Let's Be Real, You Need Them)

Okay, so… "Mountaintop Tuba Getaway"? Is that even a *thing*?

Alright, let's address the elephant in the room, or, you know, the tuba on the mountaintop. Yes, it’s a thing! A wonderfully, gloriously, slightly bonkers thing. It *is* the Chateau de Nazarene's signature experience. Think Swiss Alps meets musical mayhem. We're talking stunning views, gourmet food (more on that later...), and... well, tubas. Lots and lots of tubas. Look, I went in skeptical. I mean, I barely played a recorder in fourth grade. But trust me, there's something truly magical about the sound of a tuba echoing through the crisp mountain air. Or maybe it was just the altitude... and the wine.

What if I'm... musically challenged? Like, can't tell a C from a, well, everything else?

Dude, that's the *best* part! Seriously. You don't need to be a virtuoso. They have beginner-friendly lessons, and honestly, the instructors are saints. I'm pretty sure I spent half my lesson making fart noises with the mouthpiece (completely by accident, of course...). They’re patient, they're kind, and they've seen it all. The whole point is to have fun, not to become the next Tubenator. And look, even if you sound like a dying walrus, the mountain air does wonders for concealing off-key notes. Plus, there’s always the wine to lubricate the experience.

What's the Chateau de Nazarene actually *like*? Is it all pretentious and stuffy?

Okay, here’s the dirt. It’s *not* stuffy. Not entirely, at least. Yes, it's a chateau. And yes, it's got that old-money, meticulously-manicured vibe. Think grand fireplaces, antique furniture, and enough chandeliers to blind a small village. BUT! The staff are super chill. Like, genuinely friendly and helpful. One of them even helped me find my lost sock (don’t ask…). Plus, there’s a general air of, “We're all here to have a ridiculous time” that quickly dispels any stuffiness. Except maybe during the formal dinner… but let's just say I got away with wearing slightly-less-than-formal hiking boots one night.

Speaking of dinner... is the food any good? 'Cause I'm a foodie, and I'm judging. HARD.

Oh, the food? Okay, buckle up. You're in for a treat. It's… *chef’s kiss*… exquisite. We're talking Michelin-star quality, folks. Each meal is a multi-course masterpiece. The chef sources local ingredients, and everything is cooked to perfection. I’m still dreaming about the truffle risotto. Seriously, I almost licked the plate. The wine pairings? Divine. And the desserts? Forget about it. You'll be waddling around by the end of the week, but it’s totally worth it. Just... pace yourself. I learned that the hard way. The first night, I went HAM and ended up feeling like a stuffed goose who'd also been hitting the tuba. Lesson learned. Don't worry, they also have the most glorious snacks during the day!

What activities are there besides, you know, *tuba-ing*? I get bored easily.

Okay, attention, easily-bored folks: You *will not* be bored. Aside from the tuba lessons (which, let's be honest, are hilarious), they have everything. Hiking trails with breathtaking views, for starters. Spa treatments (massages are a *must* after a day of tuba-ing). Cooking classes with the amazing chef. Wine tastings (duh!). And, if you’re feeling adventurous, they offer guided tours of the surrounding villages. I actually went paragliding! I nearly had a heart attack, but the views were incredible. It was the most terrifying, exciting thing I've ever done!

The View! How’s the actual view from the tubas?

Alright, let me tell you about THE view. Picture this: You, struggling (badly) to blow into a tuba, the sun setting over the snow-capped peaks, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of orange, pink, and purple. The air is crisp, the mountain breeze is whispering through the trees, and the sound of your… "music" (I use that term loosely…) floats off into the vastness. It's absolutely stunning. It's breathtaking. It’s… honestly, it made me cry. I know, I know, I'm a sap. But it was just… *powerful*. I'd forgotten what it felt like to be truly, completely present. And the view from the *other* places in the chateau? Equally amazing. Every window is a postcard. You’ll be snapping photos every five seconds, guaranteed.

What's the deal with the *weather*? I need to know before I become a popsicle on a mountaintop.

Okay. The weather. Prepare for… everything. Seriously. One minute you're basking in sunshine, the next you're caught in a sudden downpour. Pack layers! Layers are your friend. Waterproof jackets, warm sweaters, scarves, hats… you get the idea. And comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking. Oh, and maybe pack some sunscreen, too. The sun up there is intense. I might have gotten a little *too* close to that sun one day and had a sunburn that made me look like a lobster who had been playing the tuba.

Okay, spill the tea: Was there anything *bad*? Any gripes?

Alright, so here's the truth, the *real* reality. There wasn't much to complain about, honestly. But... the wifi. Let's just say it's a little spotty. This is probably a good thing, as it forces you to disconnect. But if you're a social media addict (ahem… me…), it can be a bit of a challenge. Also, the tuba practice sessions could get a *little* loud. (Especially when *I* was practicing, I imagine). And I might have spent a little *too* much money on the wine. But hey, no regrets! (Okay, maybe a tiny one about the credit card bill...).

The Tuba Experience Specifics, Let’s Dig In..

Right, let’s focus on the tubaUptown Lodging

Chateau de Nazarene, Mountainside Staycation Tuba Philippines

Chateau de Nazarene, Mountainside Staycation Tuba Philippines

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