CLUB BALAI ISABEL: AN ECO-FRIENDLY LAKESIDE RESORT IN TALISAY OF BATANGAS IN THE PHILIPPINES

 

While at the poolside of Club Balai Isabel

This resort offers a serene escape on the shores of Taal Lake with varied accommodations (rooms, villas, apartments), multiple restaurants serving Filipino/Asian food, water sports (kayaking, paddleboards, Aqua Park), pools, a spa, and extensive grounds ideal for families, events, and nature lovers seeking relaxation and adventure. For more information, you can visit there website at www.balaiisabel.com.

The pool uses filtered lake water to promote sustainable practices

The spacious open field can also be used for outdoor activities for bigger groups like ours.  There was so much to do within the property.

A scenic lake-side to accommodate large groups of guests

Both sunset and sunrise are spectacular at Taal Lake, offering breathtaking views of the volcano island, but sunsets often get a slight edge for dramatic colors and the surreal feeling of watching life return to the lake's edges after eruptions, while sunrises provide a peaceful, golden start; ultimately, it depends on your preference for golden glow or fiery hues, with Tagaytay Ridge being a prime spot for both.

A closer view of the Taal Volcano

This resort is 78.5 kilometers away from Manila and can be reached by a private car for one hour and 40 minutes drive via R-3 Road or Radial Road 3 which is  a major arterial route in Metro Manila, Philippines, serving as a key connector from the city center (Manila) southwards through cities like Pasay, Makati, Paranaque, Taguig, and into Muntinlupa, largely utilizing the Osmena Highway and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). It's one of the ten radial roads designed to link different parts of the capital region.

Another captured view of the Taal Volcano

Its accommodations is a mix of standard rooms, spacious suites, and villas with kitchenettes for longer stays.

Capturing the best backdrop of the resort

The resort has several restaurants like Terraza Cafe (local food), Kumintang Republik (pizza/steak), and Hapag ng Karpentero (Filipino).

Strolling around the property

The resort's location is strategically good in capturing the view of the iconic Taal Volcano in all parts of the resort.  This part of the resort is always filled with guests all the time of the day.

A spacious events hall for corporate events

The venue is popular for weddings, photoshoots, and corporate events due to its size (12 hectares) and facilities.  SDO Mandaluyong management, teachers and staff have stayed here for 2 days as funded by the local government of Mandaluyong as a treat for teachers where Mr. and Miss SDO Mandaluyong was held.

The extended dining hall due of the venue's hall

It also offers activities like Aqua Park (inflatable playground), kayaking, banana boats, jetskis, sailing, tennis, and karaoke.

Our resort's accommodation

Club Balai Isabel or officially Capital O 154 Club Balai Isabel has a gym, featuring a 24-hour fitness center, allowing guests to work out at their convenience while enjoying their stay with views of Taal Lake.

Relaxing at my accommodation

It does not only have a huge swimming pool, but rather multiple swimming pools, chapel (popular for weddings), green spaces and shuttle service.

A picture frame at Club Balai Isabel

I was late for the breakfast

In this picture frame,  there is always a queue of guests who wanted to capture their own picture for a lifetime memorabilia.  Thus,  my colleague Allan de la Trinidad and I decided to have a picture here early in the morning.

Approaching the clubhouse's pool

 

Ready for a swim after our afternoon's activity

Enjoying a refreshing swim at the pool

Endless bonding with my colleagues at the pool

My colleague, Allan de la Trinidad

Rolling at the grass

The resort's chapel

Waiting for the magical sunset

The sun is still up

The pool by the night

Another shot at the pool by night

Recapturing the pool view before leaving

Going back to our accommodation late from night swimming

The property is highly secured for the guests where we can freely roam around late

How to go to Club Isabel by Public Transport

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Bus from Manila:

• Head to major bus terminals like DLTB (Buendia) or PITX.
• Look for buses going to Tagaytay or Nasugbu, asking specifically for those passing through Talisay.

2. Alight at Talisay Town Proper:

• Tell the conductor or driver you're going to Talisay, Batangas, specifically the area near the church.
• The bus will stop near the Talisay Church

3.  Tricycle to Club Balai Isabel:

• Find the tricycle terminal near the church.
• Take tricycle and tell the driver to take you to "Club Balai Isabel", located on the shores of Taal Lake.
• You might pay more if you want the tricycle exclusively for yourself (around P24), otherwise, you'll wait for other passengers.

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