Editorial • Destinations
A First-Timer’s Guide to Daang Hari & Villar City: The New Weekend Corridor South of Manila (with Brittany Hotel as Your Base)
For decades, the standard weekend drive south meant one thing: heading straight to Tagaytay via SLEX or Aguinaldo Highway. But a new destination is carving its own identity right on the fringes of Las Piñas, Alabang, and Bacoor.
Why Daang Hari is becoming a go-to route…
Daang Hari is no longer just a bypass road for residents. It has transformed into a lifestyle corridor lined with high-end communities, curated commercial spaces, and massive green expanses. It’s where the bustle of Metro Manila begins to thin out into rolling hills and wide-open skies.
What exactly is Villar City?
Often called the "New Center of Gravity" in the South, Villar City is a massive, multi-township development spanning 3,500 hectares across several cities. Think of it as a master-planned "forest city" designed to blend modern luxury with nature. It’s home to distinct landmarks like the Forresta greenery and several "themed" cafes that have gone viral on social media.
Who it is for:
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The Leisure Driver: Those who enjoy a smooth drive with plenty of scenic stopovers.
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Staycation Seekers: Families or couples who want a quick escape from the city without the 3-hour climb to Tagaytay.
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Cafe Hoppers: If you’re looking for a new spot that doesn’t feel like a typical mall cafe.
A Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL & FOREST VIBES
- • 10:00 AM: Drive through Daang Hari and stop for coffee at Crossing Cafe or Glasshouse Coffee in Forresta. The architecture alone is worth the trip.
- • 2:00 PM: Check in at Brittany Hotel Villar City. This is your boutique anchor for the weekend—offering a high-end, quiet luxury atmosphere that feels very different from the larger chain hotels.
- • 4:00 PM: Unwind at the hotel pool or explore the nearby greenery.
- • 7:00 PM: Dinner at San Marco or the hotel’s own dining outlets.
DAY 2: SLOW MORNINGS & SCENIC LOOPS
- • 9:00 AM: Leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
- • 11:00 AM: Take a scenic drive through the Villar Avenue extension—the roads are wide, lined with thousands of pine trees, and surprisingly quiet.
- • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Joe’s Tavern before heading back to the city.
Why Brittany Hotel?
While there are many places to stay in the Alabang area, Brittany Hotel Villar City is specifically designed for this new "weekend corridor." It offers a boutique experience—meaning more personalized service and a more intimate feel than the massive commercial hotels. It’s the perfect base if you want to be right in the heart of Villar City’s most scenic spots.
Pro-Tip for First Timers:
Visit on a weekday or an early weekend morning if you want the best photos at the cafes. The area is becoming popular, but the early hours still offer that "exclusive" and quiet atmosphere that defines the South Manila lifestyle.