Balete, Batangas: Marian Orchard and the view of Taal

Balete, Batangas is a picturesque town along Taal lake but before reaching the town proper, one gets to pass by Marian Orchard which is located along the highway in barangay Malabanan.

The first time I visited the Marian Orchard, I am not quite sure what to make of it. It sure is a project on a grand scale with towering statues of saints. A Catholic themed park, it seems to me that it is still a work in progress. Despite that it has already become a pilgrimage site for many Catholic devotees. Twice I’ve been there and both times, there were many people visiting the place. Honestly, I am a bit bothered that faith has become commercialized (they charge an entrance fee of 50 pesos) but I guess that is how they manage to maintain the place and to improve it further.

Upon entrance to the complex, one is met by the sight of Christ the Redeemer towering above the chapel. Then there is the plaza of apostles where enormous sculptures of the apostles are lined up. This leads to meditation gardens and the view deck. The place also features Stations of the Cross. I bet the place must be jam packed during the Lenten season.

The lifelike statues lined up along the plaza of apostles including those in the Stations of the Cross are impressive but what inspired me more is the sight from the two view decks that they have in the place. It is just amazing to go up there and watch the treetops and the lake. The view of the placid waters of Taal evokes a feeling of serenity and awe. One can also just walk around the gardens and be amazed at the vibrant colors of the flowers. I could see that great care was really put in cultivating those gardens. Personally, I believe that if there is anything that would restore the faith of broken souls who visiting the place, it would not be the statues of the saints all over the place but it would be the vibrant color of the flowers and the sheer beauty of the landscape.

I am not sure what time they open in the mornings but next time I would like to go there really early for three reasons. First is to avoid the multitude of visitors who are mostly taking selfies. Second is to see the view when the sun is about to rise. I am not sure if the sunrise can be viewed from there so I want to check out. Third reason is just to take a walk. The sloping terrain would be a good exercise.

Other places that are interesting around the place would be:

• ·         Nayomi Sanctuary Resort (heard it is good for glamping)
• ·         Cintai Corito Gardens (Balinese inspired resort)
• ·         Taal Lake
• ·         Honey shops along the Malabanan road ( I recommend the Honey Cider of Queen Bee Honey shop)

How to get to Marian Orchard from Lipa Bayan/ Grand Termina of Lipa, Batangas:

• ·         Board a jeepney to Marawoy. (fare depends on where one is coming from but regular fare is 8 pesos)
• ·         Drop off at Jollibee, Marawoy/Caltex both located at the junction of Levi Town
• ·         From there, take a pedicab to Marian Orchard. Fare should be around 70 pesos.

How to get to Marian Orchard from Tanauan, Batangas:

• ·         Drop off at Jollibee, Marawoy/Caltex both located at the junction of Levi Town
• ·         From there, take a pedicab to Marian Orchard. Fare should be around 70 pesos.