Kalachuchi Beach Resort, Siquijor

Kalachuchi in Siquijor is where the mind can go for an endless walk or the weary heart can take a rest. It promises nothing but comfortable silence and peace of mind for the guests. Very far from the Siquijor I imagined when I first saw Shake Rattle and Roll 2 so many years ago.

So after a decade since I first set foot in the bewitching Island of Fire Island (Isla del Fuego), I was glad to be back. I noticed that nothing much has changed, except for minimal infrastructure developments necessary to cater to the needs of tourists.

Kalachuchi is a 2.5-hectare tranquil and secluded seaside resort established by two Swiss men (Marcel and Rolf), who fell in love with the natural beauty of the Philippines three decades ago, and eventually made Siquijor their home. They said that the first time they set foot on the island, they were mesmerized with the crystal clear blue waters and simple tropical life that they never wanted to leave again. Absolutely, they were bewitched! Surrounded by dense mangroves and an undisturbed tropical forest, the resort was named after the fragrant white flower tree that grows abundantly within their premises.

Coming from Dumaguete, my colleague Pat and I were welcomed by a lethargic Dalmatian, who was then quietly resting at the foot of their lovely wooden spiral staircase that leads to the reception area.

I was surprised to find my name on their welcome board (along with another foreigner guest), something that rarely happens during my check-in with the same type of resort. Plus points for the personalized effort of the staff, who are actually very friendly and hospitable.

There are six modern villas, named after different varieties of flower, interspersed in a sprawling garden setting, that guests could choose from. They are sort of architectural fusion reminiscent of Swiss chalet and tepee hut, ingenuously designed by the owners themselves.

We were given a tour of some of the huts, before finally settling to our own loft-type villa. It is good for a family or group of four. The room is sparkling-clean and spacious with woodworks (dominantly mahogany) that are impeccable. It is also equipped with air-conditioning, exquisitely designed toilet and shower, and a patio to give guests a relaxing view of nature - perfect blend of native Asian and contemporary touches.

The resort has an in-house restaurant, also beautifully designed with native woods, that offers panoramic view of the surroundings.

Their local-hired chefs serve appetizing meals with their bestsellers that I relished – the shrimps and mango curry. Moreover, they offer a mix of regional, Asian and European cuisines.

The resort also provides guests with activities such as outdoor chess, billiards, and swimming. The beachfront is really not that ideal for swimming so the swimming pool is a good alternative. But walking by the shore, visiting nearby mangrove and savouring fresh air, are invigorating, detoxifying.  

Aside from utter relaxation, we also explored the natural treasures of Siquijor like Salagdoong, Paliton Beach, Cambugahay Falls, and Balete Tree.

  

Kalachuchi is a serene and quiet resort, and a bit remote from the busy island scene, which is San Juan. It is really not cut for those looking for wild beach parties; but rather perfect for those who want to unwind, binge-watch Charmed or Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and live in close touch with nature.

From Manila, take a plane bound for Dumaguete. In Dumaguete, take a fast craft going to Siquijor. From Siquijor port in Larena, rent a tricycle going to Kalachuchi and other tourist spots.

Kalachuchi Beach Resort

6230 Bitaug, Enrique Villanueva

Siquijor

Tel. No.: 0916-8963806