There is so much heart and soul to be found in this country. Each day I feel that I am getting closer and a bit further. I experience a glimpse only to see the depth it beholds. Around Christmas time I was gifted a nativity from Clay Storytellers. I collect nativity sets and enjoy bright and bold pieces so I loved this one. Learning of the story made the nativity even closer to my heart. An Mercado-Alacantara, is the inn keeper at Casa San Pablo but also an avid clay artisan. The pieces are hand-made terracotta figures that depict people telling stories to children. After learning more about Casa San Pablo and that it is actually a whole B&B I had to have a look for myself. We missed it on our first attempt by one hour on our drive home from Lake Pandin. I was only able to stop briefly on our way to Bangkong Kahoy but am hoping to for an overnight in the future. Even though our visit was only an hour I highly suggest this for a day trip or a meal stop after a day visit in Laguna. The restaurant was not open when we arrived but again, I am so intrigued and dying to go back. The grounds are beautiful open and very kid friendly with a play set, swings, pool and much nature to explore. There is a private home on the grounds which reminded me of a cabin in the woods. The rooms for rent are nestled on another side of the property near a creek and open grass. We only stayed for less than an hour but we all felt a surge from the nature and solitude of Casa San Pablo.

I couldn't get over the deep green of these leaves scaling the wall. Oh my.

Clay Storytellers is set up so visually appealing with bright colors and light. The hardware (handles, knobs, lights etc) on the whole property was even catching my eye.

The private residence is really a quaint cottage. How dreamy to have little Baguio and a wooden cabin just two hours south of Manila!

The bedrooms for rent nestled in so much green! Serenity now.

This courtyard with market lights is just between the bedrooms and restaurant. What a view to wake up to and eat at.The restaurant was so open and had so much seating with a number of entrances. I haven't eaten here yet but it is on my list, obviously. Looking at this pictures again is getting me itchy. 

Exploring is always better when you have the place to yourself, especially coming from Manila. As you can see, nobody was around. 

Traffic in The Philippines really is more fun.

Things to know:

• Casa San Pablo is located in San Pablo, Laguna. Just a two hour drive south of Manila. Detailed driving instructions are found here.

• You can stop for just a meal and shopping at Clay Storytellers. It is best to have reservations. *I have not eaten at Casa San Pablo so I cannot offer you any opinion or guidance.

• CASA SAN PABLO | Barrio San Roque, San Pablo City, Laguna, Philippines Mobile: +63 920 967 5277 or +63 917 812 6687 | Phone: +63 2 211 2132 | Fax: +63 2 724 7023 Email: info@casasanpablo.com

*Map used from Casa San Pablo's website.