Batanes: A haven for living simply, savouring nature’s splendour

The people are welcoming and proud of their islands. With every gesture, they honour the delicate balance of their precious ecosystem, weaving conservation into the fabric of their daily lives. In Batanes, reverence for nature runs deep, ingrained in the very soul of its people. Here, less truly becomes more. As I observed numerous initiatives related to nature and sustainability within the local community, I realised why this place is so close to my home in Switzerland. While enjoying a modest feast of freshly caught fish and garden-fresh vegetables, I noted how abundance takes a backseat to necessity. Here, with the gentle embrace of restraint, life in Batanes is a testament to the timeless allure of living in harmony with nature.

The absence of excess and the profound respect for natural resources integrated within every facet of life felt right to me in this place and time. In Batanes, wastefulness is an alien concept replaced by a deep appreciation for the essentials. Here, restraint is a luxury—a testament to the profound wisdom of living in harmony with the rhythms of nature. In these places, we are intimately connected to the Earth, and the importance of mindful consumption becomes unmistakably clear. As we hiked the wind-swept hills, gazing upon the mesmerising spectacle of crashing waves below, we understood why this place is called the “Home of the Winds”.

At Fundacion Pacita, the wind is a steadfast companion, its gentle whispers a constant presence. There is a sense of infinite beauty in the refreshing mornings on our balcony overlooking the sea. But the landscape is not the only aspect of the region that leaves an indelible mark on our stay. The culinary creations of Patsy Abad, the Fundacion’s general manager who studied Culinary Arts in New York, elevated our experience to new heights. Every meal became an unforgettable occasion, enjoyed around the table with guests from the Philippines and across the globe. Life pulses vibrantly in Batanes, not exactly slower but more purposeful.

Locals sail the sea, tend to their mountain herds, and nurture gardens with a diligence born of necessity. Yet, amidst this bustle, time unfolds at a different pace—a rhythm attuned to the harmony of nature, a melody of respect and symbiosis. As I bury my nose in my scarf, I’m struck by the profound tranquillity enveloping us. I ask myself: How can we enthusiastically promote a destination like Batanes while remaining acutely aware of the imperative to preserve its pristine beauty?

There is a strong commitment in Batanes to preserving its natural and cultural heritage for future generations, and we must remain mindful of this responsibility whenever we visit the region. Batanes is truly a retreat for both body and soul. It makes you feel a profound sense of peace and reverence for the natural world. It will teach you a deep appreciation for the beauty and sanctity of the Earth through the lifestyle of its inhabitants, the Ivatans.

I felt at home in Batanes. The rustic charm of the traditional stone houses evoked memories of quaint villages nestled in Valle Verzasca in Southern Switzerland. The meticulously curated garden, adorned with whimsical fountains and tranquil water features at Fundacion Pacita, transported me back to the gardens of my childhood in Luberon in southern France. And the majestic mountains and grazing cows are gentle reminders of my homeland, Switzerland. Amidst all these similarities, one unmistakable trait stood out: a universal thread that binds the Filipino spirit together, which is the warmth of their smiles and the kindness in their hearts that can be found only and truly in the Philippines. Batanes, you stole our hearts with your enchanting landscapes and the gentle souls that grace your shores. We long to return.

Travel Notes: The Pacita Abad Art Foundation, also known as Fundacion Pacita, is located in Batanes, Philippines, and is named after the renowned Filipina artist Pacita Abad. Don’t miss the major solo exhibition by Pacita Abad at Silverlens Gallery in Makati. Pacita Abad: Love is Like a Heatwave from February 13 to March 16.

https://www.silverlensgalleries.com/exhibitions