Heya, this is Stella, bringing a fresh sight to your screen as I am elated to share with you my experiences way back when I traveled with my family to visit one of the most picturesque botanical gardens of Cebu, Philippines—Sirao Garden, or famously known as the Little Amsterdam of Cebu!
The Ride to Talamban
It happened on the 15th of January, 2023, when my family and I visited our relatives in Talamban, Cebu, to join their festivities on that day. We are residing in Danao City, and with a distance of 41 kilometers going to Talamban, it took us more than an hour to get to our destination by car. From the ride there, I already felt that we’re getting farther away from the city just by looking at the towering trees on the side of the road. The hills were now abundant with a variety of plants that were starting to grow to greet the lukewarm spring, and the ambience was spared from the buzzling crowds and traffic noises as it was instead replaced by the calm breeze. Coming to Talamban is such a breath of fresh air. But guess what? Going to Sirao Garden means we have to travel approximately 17 kilometers more to arrive there! And if Talamban was refreshing enough, what more is there in Sirao? Well, eventually you’ll figure it out as you keep on reading, but let me spoil you in one word – breathtaking!
The Unexpected Escape
In truth, going to Sirao Garden was never part of our plan on that day, but as they say, spontaneous trips turn out to be the best ones. However, the road from Talamban to Sirao may not be as carefree as you might think, considering that it is located in a remote and mountainous area, and make it more exciting by realizing that the data connection there is nowhere to be found, LOL. With no Google Maps to check, we almost got lost! Nonetheless, what’s an adventure without a little thrill? Fortunately, we managed to arrive there, and as soon as we took a glimpse of the vibrant spot, all our problems and worries faded into the background.
Inside Little Amsterdam
Let’s Wander from My Point of View!
From the moment I entered Little Amsterdam (Sirao Garden), I’ve wished I could live in such a place for the rest of my life. I was wonderstruck to be inside a paradise of vibrant landscapes lavished by the beauty of more or less a hundred kinds of botanical plants flaunting their bright colors and unique features. And of course, it wouldn’t be called Little Amsterdam for nothing. If you have the dream to travel to Amsterdam, yet several factors, including financial matters, restrain you from traveling there yet, then shed no tears; Sirao Garden is the perfect getaway for you. This botanical garden is the epitome of a serene environment, while at the same time offering you bountiful attractions where you can take photos of yourself or with your loved ones. Whichever part of this garden you’re standing in, it’s worth capturing in several frames.
The Windmills
In these tall, intricate structures inspired by the windmills in Amsterdam, you’re transported to places like Zaanse Schans, Molen van Sloten, and De Gooyer, which are famous trademarks of the capital of the Netherlands. The country, in general, is famous for its windmills, as they play a pivotal role in their history and development, such as agriculture and water management. Undoubtedly, Sirao Garden did an amazing job of replicating its traditional style, embracing life in the countryside. My brother, cousin, and nephews certainly didn’t waste the chance of taking photos here.
Well-designed Benches
Artistry is definitely at its finest here in Sirao Garden, reflected by the way these benches were beautifully designed. Whoever came up with these displays indeed has their creativity unleashed. The spots inside the garden can be found in various parts, allowing you to take lots of snaps. My parents certainly had the best time doing sweet poses, and my nephews also had their fun in seats designed for kids their age.
Creative Statues and Tree Hammocks
From the cutest animal statues to the giant-sized hands, this garden makes sure that in every step you take, you’ll be captivated by these spots, making you want to pause to get a better look at it, and most of all, get the best view by sitting at the top of the majestic “Caring Hands” as if it will elevate you to the sky. This is just among the main highlights of the garden, along with their tree hammocks made from beautiful indigenous materials.
A Vast Field of Beautiful Flowers
Of course, this botanical garden would not be as mesmerizing as it would be without the variety of beautiful flowers that are growing here. Occupying most parts of the garden, flowers of different sorts will leave you enchanted by their colorful features and vibrant display. Abundant with a selection of flora, this flower garden will take you to the Netherlands, as Sirao’s prominent flowers, such as Celosia, are commonly found in the country, especially at Keukenhof, which is considered one of the world’s widest flower gardens. This idea then made a contribution to creating the farm’s present name, “The Little Amsterdam of Cebu.”
Everything about Little Amsterdam is truly magical! And although it already sounds perfect just by the awestruck attractions I’ve mentioned, you’ll find yourself even more astonished as you stand right into the view from the garden. As it is located at a higher level on Cebu’s hillside, you will definitely have the pleasure to immerse yourself in the endless verdant scenery far beyond the garden.
The Bliss of Being Lost Around the Garden
My dear reader, it is with sincerity that I share with you this: For once in my life, I felt like I was inside a movie scene! Other than that, I imagined myself trapped in a fantasy book. And if Alice had her “Wonderland,” I had my “Little Amsterdam.” Now you might wonder why such a feeling of being lost was experienced while being inside the farm; it is because the moment I entered this place, I was lost in time and space. In a metaphorical sense, the chaos in my mind was detached from me when this transcendent experience absorbed my thoughts, making me lose track of reality—it’s definitely the perfect place to unwind. Moreover, it never worried me strolling around the place on my own; it was a pleasure being lost wherever I go, for in every gaze, I discovered something beautiful and new! That said, my time was best spent still with the people that I love. And who would’ve thought that we started this fun adventure by taking the risk of getting lost?
Would you visit Cebu’s Little Amsterdam?
Heya! I hope I enlivened your love for travels by wandering with me today. Stella is hoping to see you again on her next blog. 'Till then, have a nice day! <3
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