Planning your next beach getaway? Here’s why The Bellevue Resort in Panglao should be top of mind

After settling in, I got to explore the resort and found plenty of amenities that rightfully made this a Sports Tourism awardee. Aside from the standard gym, guests can engage in a friendly game of pickleball, football, and even archery. There’s no shortage of water sports as well, with a variety of activities such as kayaking and sailing. A PADI-accredited dive shop also resides within the premises allowing you to see the wonders beneath Panglao’s surface.

For lunch, I sampled Marea’s à la carte menu which contained multiple international dishes and special entrées from Phoenix Court, a restaurant featured in our 2024 Tatler Dining Guide. What particularly stood out in their menu was their slow-roasted beef in pepper sauce which was tender and set on a bed of mashed ube yam. String beans, cherry tomatoes, and fried onions garnish the plate, adding a touch of sweetness to the savoury. But by far the best bite I had to eat was the baked oysters with black truffle cream cheese. Exceptionally creamy and rich, these oysters are to die for and had me already planning my next trip to Bohol to have them again.

After resting in my room for some time, darkness started to fall and the evening festivities began to roar. Celebrating its 12th anniversary, The Bellevue Resort held an intimate dinner party by the beach which was hosted by Miss World Philippines 2021 1st Princess, Riana Pangindian and attended by esteemed guests such as the Mayor of Panglao, Edgardo Arcay and the Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary, Judilyn Quiachon. “The Bellevue Resort, Panglao is a shining testament to what a Filipino-owned and managed enterprise can achieve. Your unwavering commitment to delivering world-class service while upholding environmental stewardship is nothing short of inspiring,” says Quiachon.

Here, The Bellevue Resort managing director Dustin Chan and resort manager Andrew Fernandes reminisced about the past 12 years as they delivered superior hospitality while also giving back to the local community. “In good times, hard times, great typhoons and earthquakes, we were there with the community. Wherever we are, we’re committed that everyone grows,” shares Chan.

With a five-course menu and buffet crafted by chef Gerwin Bailon, guests enjoyed a healthy spread of local and international cuisine consisting of twelve Bohol-native ingredients. Dinner started modestly with an appetising plate of freshly shucked oysters, followed by an Ube Yam Soup exhibiting strong notes of ube kinampay with two crayfish hidden underneath a singular leaf. Preceding the feast’s climax was a modest salad that cleansed our palates for the Beef and Reef—Chef Bailon’s magnum opus of the night. Two milky jumbo prawns perfectly complemented the tender and well-marbled steak while green beans, potatoes and a mushroom crumble added a touch of umami to the dish. Before heading to dessert, I took the time to explore the extensive buffet table where I found a diverse array of options. From fresh tuna sashimi and lechón to a Mongolian station and tacos, I was able to sample many flavours from all over the world, injected with a unique Boholano take. After I had my fill, dessert was served to end on a sweet note. The Tablea Chocolate Marquise with a side of crumbled peanut kisses used the titular ingredient with a kalamay mousse giving it a smooth yet sticky texture. 

As a champion of sustainability and altruism, The Bellevue Resort puts the environment and locals first in their endeavours. For instance, Fernandes is developing an off-site farm where they grow the necessary vegetables and spices for their restaurants instead of importing. They’ve also assisted nearby communities during the pandemic and when typhoon Odette ravaged the land and sea.

As for the future, Chan shared his plans for developing the Bellevue brand as a premier sports destination. Over the years, they have held multiple triathlons such as DEFY 123 and 5150 Triathlon as well as the first Spartan Race in Visayas—leading to them receiving the first-ever PSTA in Bohol. “We held our first beach volleyball tournament recently and we also have [ultimate] frisbee,” says Fernandes.

After gathering enough data through conversation and exploration, I headed back to my room for some much-needed relaxation. Upon returning, I noticed a card informing me of the weather forecast for tomorrow and the best times to swim at the ocean depending on the tides as well as a new plate of pastries to enjoy—a simple but thoughtful gesture that truly reflects their genuine hospitality. As I sit on the balcony to admire the night sky, I look forward to what else Bohol has to offer me when the sun rises.

For more information about The Bellevue Resort’s rooms, amenities, restaurants, and facilities, visit their website at thebellevuebohol.com.

NOW READ

Tailored indulgence: Pangulasian, El Nido invites you to experience bespoke dining like nowhere else

Got travel plans? 9 alternative Southeast Asian destinations 2024

Why is Palawan so loved by travellers?