During weekends, Metro Manila's exits constrict as droves of urban dwellers head out for their getaways.
One direction they popularly go to is north, and it's not hard to understand why this is so.
We know the provinces north of the capital for their expansive plains and mountain covers, as well as pristine rivers and beaches. Several developers, such as Sta. Lucia Land Inc., are harnessing the natural beauty of the north, building country clubs and golf courses in the area. These only amplify their bid into becoming a top-of-mind leisure destination, perfect for those who can only squeeze in a quick trip.
Here are some of those golf courses, where you can practice your swings while enjoying the great outdoors and deeper connections with friends.
Beverly Place Golf Club
In Mexico, Pampanga, this Sta. Lucia project shot to fame back in 2015 after hosting a prestigious championship tournament. Part of the reason why it was a delightful experience was the fact that the project was designed by Mike Singgaran. Another is the fantastic view of Mount Arayat, enhanced by well-maintained greens, man-made lakes and so much more.
You may visit with a member of the club or register yourself. When you do, you may also enjoy other facilities, such as an indoor court for sports like tennis and badminton, plus a banquet hall and restaurants, Jacuzzi and swimming pool. If you want to reside near the 18-hole course or wish to own a vacation home here, snag a Sta. Lucia property in the area.
Lakewood Golf and Country Club
This golf course is a strong point of one of the most modern masterplanned communities in Cabanatuan City and Central Luzon—Sta. Lucia's centrally located Lakewood City. Lakewood Golf and Country Club is the first all-weather, 18-hole championship golf course in Nueva Ecija, designed with a state-of-the-art drainage system that makes it playable all year long.
The 64-ha Lakewood Golf and Country Club features multi-bunker fairways and 16 man-made lakes. The club also has practice putting areas, a clubhouse with its own pro shop, a golfer's lounge, function rooms, locker, and shower rooms with sauna, Jacuzzi and massage service. This is not an experience reserved for just anybody because the golf club is for members only. Join now for an experience of a lifetime.
Pinewoods Golf and Country Club
Another Gary Player creation lies a few more hours northward from the other golf courses—right within he Philippines' summer capital, Baguio City. Opened in 2014, the 18-hole championship golf course at Pinewoods Golf and Country Club gives you the climate and views of a paradise nestled in the Cordillera mountain range. This could give Baguio tourists a different experience of the destination altogether.
Its facilities include a practice range, a clubhouse with a restaurant, locker rooms with showers, and even a tennis court and bowling alley. The golf course is part of a 220-ha masterplanned estate developed in the American-colonial theme, which speaks to the beginnings of the city as a hill station.