Caljje

nic town is peppered with tourist spots offering the kind of experience that ‘lowlanders’ expect, pensive, relaxing and calm. What makes Tagaytay moments special though are the private nooks that offer refuge for friends and family alike. One place that nestles the kind of rest and rejuvenating stay most long for is Callje. Located half-hidden within rows or residential areas, just a skip from the famous Pink Sisters’ Convent and a stone’s throw away from the rotunda along the town’s major thoroughfare, Caljje fits the profile of a true ‘home away from home’. Carefully tucked away from the outside world, the spot induces a sense of security which guests can immerse themselves headlong into. Covered in lush highland fauna, the place cradles a serene ambiance with refreshing shades of blue, verdant greens, and warmth from the earth toned wood and stone. Built surrounding the clear waters of a streamlined pool topped with a cool Jacuzzi, Caljje’s structures elicit calmness which comes from its hard-set architecture. All connected by tiled pavements that keep strides grounded, barefoot or otherwise, the courtyard flows seamlessly from one end to the other. The recreation area located by the pool houses various fun fittings including a billiards table, a regulation dart board, and hardwood tables perfect for board games and other social activities. At the back of it is the pantry, where kitchen savants can do their magic on a traditional a firewood oven. On top of it sits an al-fresco deck that offers access to a view of neighboring trees, rooftops, and dramatic sunrises and sunsets over the horizon. Next to it is a large, nipa-roofed cabana with a spacious hall on its ground level where wooden fixtures are set up for easy lounging. Also fitted with a long table, this space is ideal for dining or simply a gathering place for the whole company. A staircase going up the second floor leads to a den that splits into two rooms whose design appears to have been pulled out straight from a country home magazine. The bunkers can comfortably accommodate large groups willing to share a common, but spacious bath and lavatory. Overlooking the pool is another landing that offers an attractive view of everything around the property. The gazebo, with an inconspicuous narrow flight of stairs up a cozy area resting on top, serves as an outdoor anteroom that connects the yard to the garden area through a heavy wooden door. The garden, whose trails wind under a wild overgrowth, includes a grass lawn for vehicle parking and a solitary structure reserved for the property’s keepers. Beside it a crude but kept paved court with a regulation backboard and hoop hanging over. Back in the main courtyard, towards the other end of the property, stands the family house. Built with limestone blocks and walls of hardwood planks, the deep-set cabin is inviting and warm. Underneath a walkway in front is a pond which a school of wadding koi happily calls home. Across the water is an image of the Virgin Mary sitting solemnly on a riprapped grotto with steps on the opposite side leading to a veranda upstairs. On the other side of the house is a patio sheltered by crawling vines. The space serves as a hobby area, for painting and pottery, and a perfect spot to enjoy drinks with the company of close friends. Inside, a homey vibe percolates from the cool marbled floors and cozy walls. Four rooms are available for guests, as well as a common room complete with a fireplace, offering complete comfort and utmost calm. The setting is perfect paired with warm blankets, hot cups, and casual conversations for an idyllic Tagaytay experience. Unlike other tourist spots found in this oft travelled highland town, Caljje doesn’t overwhelm with grand views and historic structures. What it does is bring people closer together in a space where simple acquaintances turn into the closest of friends and mere colleagues can become part of a new family. Make memories, share moments, and wander not whenever you’re in Tagaytay.