Atremaru Jungle Retreat

Located in a stunning jungle setting. We had a grand villa with a covered upstairs circular verandah. Hammocks, views, scenery - idyllic. The young mostly female Filipina staff are the most humble, helpful, friendly people I've ever met. But, there is a dark side. We were waiting to go on the subterranean river tour - it's cancelled if the sea is too rough. We understand this. On our third morning of waiting the office girl came and told us at 7.45am that she had just been messaged that the trip was cancelled. Ok - we get that, we said oh where can we go then. She said the transport was all booked since yesterday! But wait we'd booked to go to Sabang for the trip so where's our transport gone? We asked to go to Roxas the next day - girl says sorry sir ma'am, I have to ring manager. Manager is rarely on site, he leaves these delightful young women to face the guests. After 8 hours of hanging around resort - which has limited entertainment we asked girl if she'd heard from manager, no, sorry, sir ma'am. Finally he fronted up and offered us visit to authentic Batak village. Guide showed my husband video - 40 mins walk in jungle crossing river 3 times, welcomed by tribe - waterhole to swim in. What we got - crossed river once, walked 10 mins - met a small number of villagers - some young women topless. We brought them gifts of coffee and tobacco, took photos and as we walked away girls went and put their tops on. I was shocked and sickened, that they had obviously been told to take their tops off to look like authentic villagers. We paid more for this trip than subterranean river trip, that we finally managed to get on. Dodgy stuff going on there, I want a manager I can talk to, not hiding behind gorgeous, sweet young ladies.

Jungle retreat The property is nice but be aware this place is an hour away from the city. If you’re looking for a retreat, this is a good place. The singing of the birds will wake you up in the morning.

Amazing family owned and run eco-resort in the middle of the Palwan jungle. Facilities are beautifully built into the side of the mountain and resort is fully solar powered. We swam in the rain water pool, drank fresh water and thoroughly enjoyed our three days relaxing and trekking in the jungle. The resort arranged tours for nearby attractions including the Underground River and Kito-Kitu (Firefly) watching as well as our airport transfers. The rooms are beautifully appointed and comfortable. We look forward to visiting again. 💕