Leisure community rises in the south

Have you ever wanted a rest house in the southern part of the country?  Recent discussions with friends had me looking for locations in the southern part of the country, where the weather is not so wet.

My search brought me to a small island near the city of Davao in Davao del Norte where leisure property developer Landco is developing an offering for the people of the south.

Nestled off the coast of Davao on the garden island of Samal lies Playa Azalea, a luxurious seaside residential community.  Touted to be the ideal island getaway for those looking for a vacation home in the south, it is a short 10-minute drive from Babak Pier and 10 minutes from Davao City by fast boat.

Delivering on a promise

Another joint venture development between Anflocor and Landco Pacific Corp., it offers more than 500 lots spread over 33 hectares.

For over 20 years, Landco has been delivering on its brand promise “Life at your Leisure,” and Playa Azalea is true to that promise.  Those lucky enough to call this place home will experience what luxurious resort living in an exclusive property is all about.

Boasting amenities that would remind us more of a world-class resort, Playa Azalea offers beach side residents both an infinity pool and a kiddie pool, wet and dry cabanas, snack bar and restaurant pavilion, and private beach club with a 400-meter white sand beach front and immediate access to the clear blue waters of Davao Gulf.

Those living farther up the hill can enjoy the services of the Hilltop Clubhouse, another infinity pool, and a park with places to have picnics.  Of course you also have a great view of the Davao Gulf, Davao City, and on clear days, the majestic Mt. Apo.

With the majority of the property already sold, Landco president Alby Xeres-Burgos says plans for further development of the property are under way, which will include a commercial area to cater to the needs of the residents and hotel type lodgings.

Signature pool

Like many of its properties, Landco has again developed a signature pool that is worth talking about.   Built on a cliff overlooking the property’s main beach, the pool snakes its way along the coastline, giving bathers an amazing view of the Davao Gulf.  Surrounding the pool are wet cabanas, which can be described as shaded inlets where one can enjoy the cool waters without being directly exposed to the sun.

Masseuses await those who want to relax their muscles and have a nice poolside massage in one of the dry cabanas, while the pool bar invites you to enjoy a nice cocktail while watching the sunset.  For a pool lover, this will definitely be ranked among the top pools, with the main pool overlooking Sunset Cove at Peninsula de Punta Fuego and the pool at the Peak where Regine and Ogie exchanged vows.

Island amenities

Samal Island is not called the “Island Garden” for nothing.  With the lush vegetation and amazing scenery, residents of Playa Azalea can, by default, take advantage of the unspoiled nature of the island.  Those into diving can enjoy the colorful and diverse marine life surrounding the island, while trekkers can take a hike up Mt. Puting Bato or explore one of the many caves on the isle like Monfort Cave where  large fruit bats rest.

Samal Island also has several nature parks, like Mariculture Park and Coral Garden and Marine Reserve Park, where one can view how the residents and local government are working together to preserve the diverse ecosystem of the island.

Call  (082) 2736166; 8365000 or 8365111 in Manila.