Summer is officially winding down, WIM squad! But before you lock yourself back indoors and wave goodbye to the sunny days, why not round up your barkada for one final, epic road trip? Whether you are craving a salty coastal escape, a quiet provincial cafe crawl, or a creative retreat to reset your mind, the perfect getaway is just a drive away from Metro Manila.
If you’re wondering how to survive the long drives and rising gas prices, we’ve got the ultimate cheat code for you. We recently tested these routes, and honestly, the journey was just as fun as the destinations thanks to our ride: the Ford Territory Hybrid. With a spacious cabin for all our road trip snacks and a 19.6 km/L combined fuel economy, we covered massive distances with way fewer fuel stops.
Ready to plot your itinerary? Here are 5 incredible spots to check out before summer ends!
1. Get Crafty at Paburo Pots (Batangas)
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Approx. Distance from Manila: ~ 88.1 km
If your soul is craving a hard reset, skip the crowded beaches and head over to Paburo Pots. Tucked away inside the tranquil landscapes of Capati Farm, this spot offers a full-circle pottery experience. You’ll get to learn the basics of hand-building ceramics using clay, completely surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air.
The best part? Your package includes a farm-to-table dining experience featuring a multi-course Filipino lunch. Every dish is prepared with freshly harvested produce and served on gorgeous, unique ceramic pieces made by the studio’s local artisans. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the digital noise and connect with your hands.
2. Go on a Fancy Food Crawl (Tagaytay, Cavite)
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Approx. Distance from Manila: ~ 89.4 km
Foodies, rejoice! Tagaytay is always a reliable escape, but you can take your final summer trip up a notch by hitting up its Michelin-recognized destinations.
Start your day with a hearty, unhurried lunch at Asador Alfonso, famous for its incredible open-fire cooking and relaxed countryside atmosphere. Once night falls, head over to the iconic Antonio’s. Surrounded by lush gardens, its intimate and sophisticated vibe is absolutely unmatched—making it the ultimate backdrop for deep, late-night conversations over a beautifully prepared feast.
3. Go Café-Hunting (Tarlac City, Tarlac)
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Approx. Distance from Manila: ~ 137–192 km
Tarlac is quickly becoming a haven for coffee lovers, and its emerging cafe culture is the perfect excuse for a North road trip. If your idea of a good time is discovering hidden gems and local brews, this is your sign to go cafe-hunting.
Hop between Cafétana, Kapia Farm Cafe, and Hermosa Juanita Cafe to experience everything from cozy rustic nooks to wide-open spaces under the provincial sky. It’s an amazing way to enjoy local cuisine, admire scenic views, and catch up with friends away from the manic pace of Metro Manila.
4. Chase the Sun at Sundowners Beach Villas (Botolan, Zambales)
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Approx. Distance from Manila: ~ 185 km
Can’t let summer end without getting your feet wet? Sundowners Beach Villas in Zambales serves up the ultimate coastal escape. This gorgeous beachfront property strikes the perfect balance between absolute relaxation and high-energy outdoor activities.
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You can spend your afternoon lounging by the shore, island hopping at the nearby Nagsasa Cove, or catching the wind on a Hobie Cat sailing session. If you’re a fan of hiking, you can even tackle Mt. Calibungan’s rocky trails. Wrap up the day by watching their legendary golden sunsets right from your villa.
5. Ride the Sound Waves (San Juan, La Union)
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Approx. Distance from Manila: ~ 272 km
We all know Elyu has world-class surf, but did you know its music scene is just as electric? For your last summer hurrah, take the long drive up north to experience San Juan’s vibrant after-dark culture.
Navigating highways, rocky provincial roads, and unexpected city traffic can easily drain your energy before you even reach your destination. That’s why having a reliable, smooth ride changes the entire game.
The Ford Territory Hybrid proved to be the ultimate MVP for our summer finale. Not only did its spacious cabin keep the whole barkada comfortable, but its state-of-the-art driver-assist features took all the stress out of long-haul driving. Plus, that hybrid tech means more money saved for food and activities, and less time wasted at gas stations.
They say the journey is just as important as the destination, and honestly, we couldn’t agree more
