Perez: Gift of El Don Resort
THE very moment I entered the paradise territory of El Don Resort in Barangay Pundaguitan, Governor Generoso town of Davao Oriental, I knew I am coming back for another stay.
Over the weekend, I was invited to cover Sawom Davao: Davao Oriental Dive Festival and El Don Resort housed most of the participants composed of professional divers, tourism and local government executives, social media influencers, media, and event staff and volunteers.
I’ve heard a lot of good stories of this resort lately from friends especially about its amiable staff, premier facilities, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine – indeed, the stories are true.
Situated within a 21-hectare coconut and mangrove farm at the southernmost tip of the Philippines, El Don Resort is the first and the only premier ecotourism and wellness destination in Davao Oriental to date, at least for me.
This Mediterranean architectural design-inspired resort suits perfectly for those who wanted to take a break from the buzz of daily life.
During my stay, I was booked at the “Casa Del Mar” room equipped with a balcony overlooking the Davao Gulf and Celebes Sea topped by a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges. Best thing about my room is I can hear the soothing and relaxing waves of the sea.
The resort houses three villas with 14 spacious rooms - Casa del Mar and Casa la Jardin, and a Pool Cabana that serves as its function and entertainment room.
Guests can also take a dip at its swimming pool – safe for kids and adults - situated in the middle of the property. Next to the swimming pool is the Spanish-Filipino restaurant that offers wide-variety of fresh catch, and a rooftop bar dubbed La Parilla where family and friends can enjoy barbeque and cold beverages at night.
The resort’s open spaces along the shoreline and beach front are also perfect for those looking for a place for outdoor activities like team buildings, parties, and other corporate or group events.
The resort may be somehow remote for some (three hours and a half drive away from the F. Bangoy International Airport) but the well-paved road and scenic views going there makes the journey more memorable. Another good reason to visit El Don apart from the resort offerings is its proximity to other renowned destinations in Davao Oriental like the Mt. Hamiguitan, a Unesco Heritage Site in Municipality of San Isidro, the historic light houses in Cape San Agustin in Barangay La Vigan, and long stretch of white-sand beach that serves as a Pawikan sanctuary and an international surfing destination called Dahican in Mati City.
I was told that the resort owned by the Pundaguitan Playa Inc. is still at the first phase of its development and that the owners still have a lot of plans to cement its position as a premier ecotourism and wellness destination, this information left me even more excited.
Comfortable, laidback, and peaceful – these three words can best describe my short stay at El Don Resort. Before checking out, I asked the resort’s overall advisor and consultant Eden Josephine David on what does the name of the resort means – she said El Don translates as “The Gift”.
True enough, El Don Resort is nothing short of a gift to every guest with its unique and quality offerings.
For suggestions, comments and questions, email me at aceperez.manlalakbay@gmail.com. Follow me on social media @acejunerell.