Hidden Valley Springs

Hidden Valley Springs is a resort spa built around a set of natural pools on a private estate close to the Mount Makiling mountain range in Calauan, part of the Los Baños area of Laguna. The grounds are set in forest, and the spring-fed water forms the center of the visit rather than an added feature.

Most of what there is to do here happens outdoors: swimming in the natural pools, soaking in the thermal pool and outdoor baths, and trekking through the surrounding forest. It's a place built for slow hours by the water rather than a packed spa menu, which fits its billing as a hot springs resort.

Day tours run every day of the week, and a day pass is available for those who aren't staying overnight. Hotel guests have their own access, and the resort markets itself to both families and couples, so expect a mixed crowd of day-trippers and overnight visitors depending on when you go. Pricing sits in the moderate range for the region.

Staff communicate in English, and the resort's listed contact numbers are the main way to reach them for questions on logistics, since specific opening and closing hours aren't published. Anyone planning a visit should call ahead to confirm the day's schedule and what's included with the day pass before heading out to Calauan.