Tahana, Nurture Wellness: A soulful retreat in the heart of Tagaytay

Stepping into Tahana, the boutique Airbnb property of Nurture Wellness Village in Tagaytay, about 60 kilometers south of Manila, feels like finding a rare pocket of serenity.

Nestled among the lush greens of this breezy city, Tahana captured my heart not just for its quaint charm but for how it embodies what staying at Nurture Wellness is truly about—holistic wellness, Filipino hospitality, and meaningful experiences.

Forget cookie-cutter resorts. Here, it’s all about slowing down, reconnecting, and discovering yourself while supporting a community and environment.

A tranquil retreat in Tagaytay

Tahana evokes the warmth and comfort of home. This property is intimate yet functional, providing a sanctuary for weary city dwellers.

The interiors are a perfect mix of modern design and Filipino charm, creating a space that’s both luxurious and rooted in tradition. Think locally inspired paintings, handcrafted furniture, and little details that showcase the artistry and pride of Filipino craftsmanship.

I loved lounging on the patio, coffee in hand, breathing in Tagaytay’s crisp air while being serenaded by chirping birds. It’s the kind of environment where the simple act of unwinding feels like a form of self-care.

And while you could spend your entire time cocooned in this space, stepping out and engaging with Nurture Wellness Village adds depth to your stay.

More than wellness, a transformative way of life

Nurture Wellness Village offers more than just a retreat. It’s a harmonious experience that takes care of your body, mind, and soul.

Co-owner and President Catherine “Cathy” Turvill’s goal of sharing holistic Filipino wellness with the world is brought to life here through thoughtfully designed offerings and unique, Filipino-inspired treatments.

The village offers a variety of Filipino-themed spa treatments. Signature treatments like Nilaib, a hot stone massage using steamed pouches of traditional Filipino herbs wrapped in banana leaves, and  Hilot Kagalingan, a customized Filipino massage that uses banana leaves, special herbs, and coconut oil, beautifully encapsulate the essence of native wellness.

During my stay, I experienced the Aruga massage, a full-body treatment designed to relieve anxiety and tension. The calming blend of lavender, cedarwood, and grapefruit essential oils in their signature Hulay massage oil made the experience incredibly relaxing. The treatment also included a soothing foot massage using a bamboo stick to stimulate the soles.   

For an added treat, I indulged in a Mutya facial, which rejuvenates the skin naturally, leaving it refreshed and glowing.

It was head-to-toe bliss, and I left the spa feeling lighter, both inside and out.

Wellness at Nurture also extends to mindful nourishment. A unique highlight of my visit was the juice demo, where the staff expertly prepared blends packed with health benefits:

• A refreshing kidney-support juice made with lemon, parsley, and water
• An anti-aging concoction of pineapple, orange, carrots, cucumber, and kale, rich in antioxidants
• A heart-healthy mix featuring pineapple, apple, banana, basil, and kale, delightfully sweet and easy to replicate

Each recipe was simple, wholesome, and filled with fresh produce, making them easy to incorporate into daily life. It was a small but memorable experience that added a nourishing layer to our stay.

Beyond the pampering, Nurture’s wellness programs stand out for their tailored approach. Whether you’re managing stress, detoxing, or seeking an inner glow, packages are designed to address individual needs.

But wellness doesn’t stop at the spa.

Each activity emphasizes education and mindfulness, helping guests develop meaningful and lasting habits in their routines. 

The vision of Nurture Wellness Village extends beyond its serene surroundings. Cathy shared inspiring stories of guests whose lives were transformed by their time at the retreat. This intentional focus on empowerment gives Nurture Wellness its distinctive edge, not just as a wellness destination but as a guide to a more sustainable and mindful way of living. It’s a place where relaxation meets purpose, creating a lasting impact long after you leave.

A celebration of flavors at Farmer’s Table

Of course, no getaway is complete without unforgettable food.

Farmer’s Table, the on-site al fresco restaurant, elevates dining with its farm-to-table philosophy. The freshness of the dishes stems from using ingredients sourced from their gardens or from nearby local farmers, demonstrating that health and indulgence can coexist beautifully.

Our dinner was a feast to remember. First, Crispy Pata stole the show with its perfectly crisp skin and tender pork knuckle. Paired with Seafood Guava Sinigang, an elevated take on the classic Filipino sour soup featuring bangus, prawns, calamari, mussels, and clams alongside farm-fresh vegetables bursting with flavor, the meal was as satisfying as it was hearty.

The next morning brought its own gastronomic delights. My husband chose the Beef Tapa, a classic Filipino breakfast served with garlic rice, homemade atchara, and eggs cooked to his liking. My son had the Farmer’s Eggs Benedict, a delicious medley of bacon rashers and sautéed kale piled onto buttered brioche toast, enhanced with fresh dill and served with perfectly griddled tomatoes. I opted for the Shakshuka, a vibrant dish featuring spiced harissa-tomato stew with labneh (a tangy, creamy Middle Eastern yogurt cheese), served with homemade Mediterranean bread.

Each of us reveled in our choices, savoring every bite in the cozy, open-air setting surrounded by greenery.

Transforming lives through meaningful work

Staying at Nurture Wellness isn’t just about treating yourself; it’s also about giving back. Cathy has made it her mission to support the local community by providing meaningful employment opportunities.

During my short stay, I heard several uplifting stories that have stayed with me.

One daughter, who initially struggled to support her family, was able to pay her father’s debt in full and send her siblings to school because of her job at Nurture Wellness. Another inspiring story was that of a lone breadwinner who managed to send her child to school, illustrating how these opportunities rippled into brighter futures for their families. It’s not just about creating jobs here; it’s about transforming lives.

Why Nurture Wellness stands out

There’s no shortage of wellness destinations in the world, but what makes Nurture Wellness shine is its Filipino soul. Beyond the idyllic environment or the excellent service, it’s the kindness and care that linger with you.

Every treatment, every meal, and every interaction carries a distinct touch of hospitality and intentionality that’s uniquely Filipino.

What truly sets Nurture Wellness apart, though, is its ability to empower guests to bring wellness into their daily lives. Their CHOICES program is a practical framework for living with balance and purpose, providing a roadmap to continue better habits long after your stay.

C – Choose to be positive. Manage your stress.
H – Hydrate. Healthy Eating.
O – Oxygenate (Exercise, Movement)
I – Immune Boost with Natural Supplements.
C – Cleanse your Body, Mind, and Environment.
E – Embrace natural healing therapies.
S – Sleep, Social, and Spiritual Support Systems.

Your meaningful escape awaits

Staying at Tahana and exploring Nurture Wellness Village wasn’t just a getaway; it was a gentle, affirming nudge to live better. It’s a place that not only nourishes your body but also recharges your spirit and leaves you with tools to keep the positivity going.

If you’re looking for a meaningful retreat where every detail feels intentional—from the therapies and food to the communities they uplift and the environment they honor, Nurture Wellness Village in Tagaytay is the place to be.

All photos by Rhea Vitto Tabora