I had my first kawa hot bath experience in the province of Antique. It had been years but I still wasn’t over how fun and unique it was. I still remember the feeling of calm as the warm water, infused with coffee grains as an add-on, soothed my tense muscles. I was aching to do it again. This desire was further amplified after the pandemic.
Imagine my delight when I learned that there is a kawa hot bath place not too far away from Manila. And that it’s in Tagaytay — the La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden. As I was booking a slot, I could already picture climbing into a hot kawa set against a picturesque mountain backdrop in the chilly Tagaytay atmosphere! And just a few days later, that’s exactly what happened!
Ready to become one of Tagaytay’s best bulalo? Haha! If you want to experience this unique kawa hot bath in Tagaytay, here are some of the things to know before you go.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If your are traveling soon and still on the planning stage, you can also visit our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Here, we compiled travel essentials, including immigration requirements and all our recommended hotels and tours. Just visit this page: TPT Masterlist. We have a compilation for destinations around the world.
What is a kawa hot bath?
First, for the unfamiliar, a “kawa” is basically an oversized metal wok or vat traditionally used in cooking dishes of generous proportions for a feast, usually a fiesta (festival), a wedding, or a debut. These cauldrons are a ubiquitous sight at any Filipino celebration in the province.
I remember, on the eve of a major occasion (called bisperas), a team of neighbor-cooks would bring out these giant woks and place it atop three big rocks. In between these boulders, firewood is burned, creating puffs of smoke that, to me, signals that the party is about to start.
So yes, a kawa is typically used in cooking food, which is why the idea of a kawa bath is both fascinating and humorous. It’s as though you’re about to be boiled alive and get served for dinner. It never fails to elicit giggles from first timers!
I’m not sure how kawa baths started, but I think it was the town of Tibiao, Antique, that first captured the mainstream consciousness and turned it into a compelling tourist attraction. Resorts in neighboring municipalities and provinces soon followed suit, offering their own twist via add-ons. Some add coffee, milk, bath bombs, and a cornucopia of herbal leaves and spices. Before you know it, it has already crossed the seas, and yes, it has reached Tagaytay.
What is La VeryOl?
Formally known as La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden, it is a family-owned and family-run garden-slash-spa known to offer a kawa hot bath experience. In fact, the name “VeryOl”, while confusingly stylized, came from the names of the parents — Ver and Yolly. The family spirit is charmingly apparent as the members of the family take on hands-on roles.
Because the place is perched on the ridge, it affords a great view of the thickly forested slopes. However, don’t expect to see Taal lake and the volcano because they are NOT part of the view. But it is a relaxing vista, still.
Within the complex, there are also four veranda rooms for those who wish to spend the night. All can accommodate up to two guests. An in-house restaurant is also within easy reach.
What are the rates?
La VeryOl accepts both overnight and day tour guests. If you are near Tagaytay or from Manila, it’s possible to enjoy the Kawa Bath (and massage) on a day tour.
But if you are in the mood to splurge, wish to savor the relaxing atmosphere of La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden, or plan to visit other attractions in Tagaytay, spend at least a night.
Note that aside from the kawa bath, they also offer a few more types of massage. Here are the rates:
Day Tour Rates
Kawa Hot Bath Rates
- Kawa Hot Bath Only
P499 - Kawa Package A
(Kawa Hot Bath w/ Full Body Massage)
P1099 - Kawa Package B
(Kawa Hot Bath w/ Full Body Massage + Ventosa or Hot Stone)
P1599 - Kawa Package C
(Kawa Hot Bath w/ Full Body Dry Massage)
P1399
NOTE: The duration for Kawa Hot Bath is 45 minutes.
Massage Service Rates
- Full Body Massage: P899
- Full Body Dry Massage: P1199
- Full Body Massage w/ Ventosa or Hot Stone: P1399
NOTE: The duration for all body massage services is one (1) hour EXCEPT for ventosa/hot stone massage, which lasts one (1) hour and 30 minutes.
Add-Ons/Optional Products
Amplify your kawa bath experience when you add these products to your kawa bath package:
- Himalayan Salt: P85
- Facial Collagen Mask: P85
- Bath Bombs: P99
- Milk Bath: P110
NOTE: Herbal leaves and flower petals are already included in the bath. Let the management know if you have allergic reactions to pollen, oils, and milk.
REMINDERS:
- Arrive 15 minutes before your schedule. Your kawa bath duration will not be extended and will end exactly at your scheduled time slot.
- Bring your own towel, toiletries, and slippers. The rental fee for the use of towels and robes is P50.
Overnight Rates
For those staying overnight, the check-in time for La VeryOl’s guests is 2:00 PM and the check-out time is 12:00 PM. All rates indicated below are good for two (2) pax.
Weekday Rates
- Veranda 1 & 2
Room Only: P1700/night
W/ Kawa Package: P3100/night - Veranda 3
Room Only: P2500/night
W/ Kawa Package: P3900/night - Veranda 4
Room Only: P3000/night
W/ Kawa Package: P4400/night
Weekend & Holiday Rates
- Veranda 1 & 2
Room Only: P2000/night
W/ Kawa Package: P3800/night - Veranda 3
Room Only: P3000/night
W/ Kawa Package: P4400/night - Veranda 4
Room Only: P3500/night
W/ Kawa Package: P4900/night
Add-Ons & Others
- Extra Pillow or Blanket: P200
- Extra Towel: P100
- Extra Pax (for Veranda 3 & 4 only): P450/pax
(Up to 2 additional pax only & exclusive of kawa bath package) - Late Check-out: P550/additional hour
(Subject to availability)
NOTES:
- Upon check-in, a refundable security deposit of P1000 per room will be collected. This will be returned upon check out.
- Children aged four (4) years old and below are free of charge.
- The rates for the Veranda are inclusive of basic toiletries, private CR w/ not shower, free Wi-Fi, complimentary parking space, and plated breakfast for two.
- Avoid eating in bed. Staining the linens may incur penalty fee of P700.
- Smoking is not allowed inside your room. There are designated smoking areas within the premises.
- Quiet time is from 12:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
What are the amenities and features?
- Kawa Hot Bath. Take a refreshing dip in the warm water of the kawa bath as you enjoy the view, the place, and the vibe. La VeryOl has around 16 kawa units.
- Body Massage. Ease the tension of the past weeks when you avail of any of the massage services. Choose the one that suits your need.
- In-house Restaurant. Located just beside the reception area is the cozy restaurant that plantitos and plantitas will surely love.
What are the operating hours?
La VeryOl is open from Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays for sanitation and maintenance.
- Day Tour: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Check-in Time: 2:00 PM
- Check-out Time: 11:00 AM
NOTES:
- Always check the latest announcements and updates from the official Facebook page prior to your visit/booking.
- Late night check-in time is until 10:00 PM only.
- You need to honor your booked schedule. Failure to arrive on the reserved date means forfeiture of your booking fee (50% downpayment).
- Should you fail to appear on your scheduled appointment, rebooking or rescheduling is not permitted.
How to book a day tour or an overnight stay?
- Contact the management (mobile phone or Facebook Messenger) for the current rates and availability.
- You will be asked to supply the following details: preferred date, number of pax, specify if overnight or day tour, and contact number. They will get back to you and let you know if there are still slots available for your chosen date.
- If available, they will send you your booking details, the inclusions, the total amount, and reminders.
- Pay 50% of the total amount as a deposit before the indicated due date to reserve and secure your slot. Failure to pay the deposit on time means forfeiture of your reservation. Note that the 50% downpayment is non-refundable. Payment may be done via GCash or BDO.
- Send the proof of payment (deposit slip, receipt, etc.) to the management. We sent ours via Messenger. You can ask the management for the receipt before checking out.
- The management will confirm your reservation and send you more details about your stay and the inclusions and the rules and guidelines.
Please take note of the policies — both health and safety guidelines. Check and ask if there are any additional requirements.
How to check in at La VeryOl?
- Arrival. If you are bringing a car, you will be assisted by one of the staff members.
- Check-in. You will be directed to the Reception Area near the main gate.
- Present your valid IDs. All guests must present their valid IDs, so don’t forget to bring them.
- Settle the remaining balance. You will get the O.R. (Official Receipt) upon check-out.
- Review the details. Double-check your kawa hot bath schedule and set the time for the massage service (if applicable).
Enjoy your stay! If spending a night here, you will be escorted to your designated room. If going on a day tour, you will be escorted to the shower room to prepare for your bath and/or massage.
How to get to La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden?
La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden is located on St. Francis Drive, Barangay Francisco in Tagaytay City. It is an unassuming nook that is very easy to miss because it’s tucked into the inner alleys.
The main entry point is from Tagaytay-Calamba Road, but you can either take the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, or Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX).
- Public Transportation. From Manila, take a bus bound for Tagaytay or Nasugbu at Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) or Pasay. Get off at Olivarez New Terminal. The fare is P100-120. There’s a tricycle (bukyo) terminal on the side. Take the special tricycle trip to La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden. The fare is around P100 for up to three people.
- Private Car. From SLEX, Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, or CAVITEX, continue driving until your reach Tagaytay-Calamba Road. Drive past Tagaytay City Market (different from Mahogany Market). Continue driving, them turn right onto St. Francis Drive. Keep driving until you reach La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden. It’s recommended to use Waze for detailed directions and the live traffic situation.
Do we need to make a reservation first?
YES, they only accept guests by appointment. Whether you are doing an overnight stay or a day tour, you need to secure your slot by making a reservation ahead of your preferred date of stay or visit.
The Kawa Hot Bath service and massage bath service have limited slots per day, so they strictly implement a NO WALK-IN policy.
If you are planning an overnight stay, book at least two weeks in advance. If you are only going on a day tour, book your slot at least three to seven (3-7) days ahead.
When is the best time to go?
As usual, weekdays and off-peak seasons.
Again, kawa units and rooms (for overnight stay) are limited. But if you can’t help traveling on a weekend, holiday, or peak season, it’s best to plan ahead and book several days ahead of your intended arrival date.
Where to eat?
As mentioned above, there’s an in-house restaurant which usually operates between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM. The menu includes all-day breakfast, house specials (main dishes), tapa meals, snacks, group meals, and drinks (hot and cold, alcohol and non-alcohol).
One of the bestsellers is the La VeryOl’s Special Bulalo. But because we have reached our bulalo quota that weekend, we ordered Pancit Bihon, Sizzling Pork Sisig, and some snacks. They were fine, but my favorite was the Pancit Bihon.
If you are staying overnight, the rates are already inclusive of breakfast with hot or cold drinks.
You may also consider having dinner at other restaurants in the area. Just remember that the front desk will close at 10:00 PM, so make sure to inform the management if you’re heading out for dinner.
What are the nearby attractions?
Here are just some of the attractions near La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden:
- Tagaytay Flower Market
- Our Lady of Manaoag Tagaytay (Tierra de Maria)
- Tagaytay Picnic Grove
- Crosswinds Luxury Swiss Resort (NAPA, Ruined Project, etc.)
- People’s Park in the Sky
- Tagaytay Highlands
- Museo Orlina
Is it worth it?
Yes. This was actually one of the highlights of our team’s three-day trip in Tagaytay!
It’s not only the kawa hot bath experience that made this trip memorable but also the picture-worthy setting, the excellent service, and the proximity to Manila.
This is a family-owned business, and we witnessed how hands-on the family members were during our stay. They were making sure that the guests were comfortable and their needs were being met as best as they could. We also got to meet the lovely Mommy Yolly herself!
There are some areas of improvement. Our bathroom, for example, while spacious could use a little bit more attentive cleaning. But overall, we had a delightful stay! In fact, I came back with my parents for a day tour after this trip with the team, and we will surely be back again ASAP!
Other Tips and Reminders
- Only guests who availed of the spa services are allowed inside the premises. No companions allowed.
- Kawa bath units are limited and are scheduled, so make sure to come on time.
- During busy days, the kawa assigned to you will depend on its availability. Usually, you don’t have the privilege to choose your spot. You might be able to choose your preferred kawa/location during weekdays or lean hours.
- Schedule your massage upon arrival. Note that the availability is based on the massage therapists’ schedule for that day.
- Pay the 50% deposit to reserve your visit date and settle the remaining balance upon arrival.
- For sanitation and hygiene, bring your own towel, slippers, and bathing outfit.
- The property provides free Wi-Fi access.
- Incidentals and additional orders/services shall be settled upon check-out.
- Payment may be done through BDO bank deposit and GCash. Card payment is accepted on site.
- Quiet time between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM must be strictly observed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Outside food items — cooked and uncooked — are not allowed and are subject to corkage fees. However, you can bring light snacks, bread, cakes, and bottled water.
- Illegal items and activities are prohibited and will be reported to the proper authority.
- Follow the property’s health and safety protocols.
La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden Contact Details
- Mobile Number: +63 915 790 0170 / +63 917 134 6413 / +63 927 681 1185
- Email Address: laveryols@gmail.com
- Facebook Page: La VeryOl’s Mountain View Garden Tagaytay City (www.facebook.com/laveryols)
Tagaytay Emergency Numbers
- National Emergency Hotline
911 - Tagaytay PNP
(046) 413-1282 / +63 915 913 7693 / +63 998 598 5603 to 04 - Tagaytay Fire Station (BFP)
(046) 483-1193 / (046)-471-3747 / +63 942 989 8495 - Ospital ng Tagaytay
(046) 423-3195 / (046) 483-2160 - City Health Office (CHO)
(046) 483-0604 - Tagaytay City Rescue (CDRRMO)
(046) 483-0446 - CSWDO
(046) 483-0494
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Updates Log
2026 6 8 – Updated to reflect changes in rates, schedules, and other details
2023 1 13 – Updated information
2021 12 2 – First up
Additional words by: Yosh Dimen
