I am delighted to reveal my secret garden sanctuary. Explore the familiar Tagaytay route and you will find a time-honored relaxing place in Cavite known as Sonya’s Garden. The long road leading to the lush garden and calming scenery of this favorite alcove is home to Sonya Garcia. Her private home was opened to the public since 1998 and has been the ultimate wedding venue. Since then, Sonya’s Garden has opened a shop, a spa, a bakery, and Bed and Breakfast Cottages.
I had the opportunity to explore the place extensively last year. That was the perfect time to talk to the staff because it was not too crowded. You can’t help but be drawn to the bed of flowers that filled every nook and cranny of that magical place. I am in awe at the amount of work and dedication to put up and maintain the lavish garden.
The rustic and homey cottages were named after different herbs. I had a very relaxing visit that I decided to stay overnight! And you wouldn’t need air conditioning as you would bask in the Tagaytay breeze, scent of the flowers and trees, and gorgeous surroundings. It was truly a treat for the senses. Now, I know why engaged couples travel to this part of Cavite to exchange vows.
Fragrance filled the Apothecary. It’s a shop for organic soaps, oils, shampoos, candles, and more. Those sweet-smelling body and bath products in small bottles are great gift items for yourself or your friends.
The Country Store sells handcrafted trinkets, herbal plants, clothes, linens, and other items for the home.
Towards the end of the garden is a shabby-chic furniture store with crocheted items, accent chairs, and tea sets on sale. It has the “right mix of beauty and imperfection.”
Another favorite spot at Sonya’s Garden is the well-known Panaderia. It is the first area you will notice as you enter the garden. The smell of freshly baked bread will draw you inside the bakery. Their Spanish Bread has become the visitor’s favorite. And you have to try it once you visit the place. They also have pandesal, pandecoco, and pastries. Cookies and other breads are neatly stacked on woven baskets. While the shelves are lined with Pancit Lucban noodles and other bottled foods.
I also visited their Spa where I can smell the scented oils coming from the rooms. The spa beds were littered with rose petals with the sound of their unique waterfall structures to complete the spa experience. The spa services are by appointment. I have tried the Sonya’s Signature massage, which is an hour of full body massage for a fee of P1000. They also have an hour of back and foot massage for P800. You may book one of their spa services by calling 0917-5231080.
I decided to have buffet lunch in one of their food halls, where they serve organic vegetarian food like their salad laced with flowers and their famous secret sauce. I especially liked their pasta with their assorted toppings ranging from anchovies to mixed mushrooms, tomato salsa, and cream. I ended the visit with their very own Chocolate Cake, sliced just right to satisfy my sweet tooth. Dining at Sonya’s Garden was a relaxing experience. The place was quiet even if it started filling up with more guests.
Do you know why this garden is my secret sanctuary? This is one place among others that I visit where I can pray for long hours and rejoice with my savior. I keep this verse in my heart and get renewed everyday!
Isaiah 58:11
The LORD will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.
Sonya’s Garden is located at Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite. It is very accessible and not to far from Tagaytay City Proper. To know more about what Sonya’s Garden has to offer, visit SonyasGarden.com.
Email: info@sonyasgarden.com
Restaurant: +63 917 532 9097 / +63 917 529 1080 / +63 917 516 1080 / +63 917 517 1080
Bed & Breakfast: +63 917 533 5140 / +63 917 503 1080
Spa: +63 917 523 1080
