Finding Peace at the Hills: A Review of South Mountain Resort in Siquijor Island
This article may contain affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission whenever you book or purchase something through our links (at no extra cost to you!). You can find more information in our disclaimer.
How do you feel about waking up to a quiet morning? Or seeing a firefly before you sleep?
It would be a haven, right? Especially if you’re on a vacation.
Well, I just had the same feelings when I had the chance to stay at South Mountain Resort in January this year.
For a recap, Siquijor isn’t just known for its enchanting beauty, but also for offering a peaceful escape.
South Mountain Resort is located amidst the green hills of Siquijor, the resort lives up to its name, providing a haven of peace and relaxation for travelers seeking a scenic escape.
📍 The Location and Arrival
South Mountain Resort is one of the Siquijor resorts conveniently located just about 3 kilometers away from Siquijor’s famous Tubod Beach.
Tricycles and motorbikes, the preferred modes of transport on the island, can easily take you to the resort.
If you want to step away from the bustling coastal areas and not opt for a beach resort, this place sits amidst the island’s rolling hills, offering a welcome change of pace.
The catch?
Since it’s located on the mountain, some areas we pass by don’t have barriers during the time we stayed there.
If you’re navigating after sundown, you should be very careful and drive slowly if possible.
Especially since there are no streetlights on some parts of the road and it can get rocky, bumpy, and dusty.
The check-in process was smooth and efficient and you will not be lost finding the reception because, as a welcome, you will see a chalkboard with your name written on it.
I mean, it was my first time being greeted like that! 🤭
The friendly staff and resident dogs greeted us warmly and provided a quick rundown of the resort’s amenities, answering any questions I had.
They even gave us a welcome drink!
This just set a positive tone for the rest of my stay.
🛌🏻 Cozy Rooms with Breathtaking Views
South Mountain Resort offers a variety of rooms to suit different needs and budgets. I opted for a standard room, which was perfect for me and my friend.
The room was clean, well-maintained, and had a big comfort room, with comfortable bedding and all the essentials like air conditioning, a TV, a safe, and a kettle.
The room also includes amenities such as a gallon of water, coffee, tea, and creamer, with clean towels and wi-fi (not that strong but as a silver lining, you can appreciate more of the natural environment).
But the true gem, in my case, was the balcony.
Stepping outside, I was met with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills, green trees, and a good view of the moon since we had a clear sky at that time.
It was the perfect spot to unwind with a cup of coffee in the morning or a refreshing drink in the evening.
Sign up now to grab your FREE guide to 50 hidden gems in the Philippines!
🌿 Simple Pleasures and Relaxation
South Mountain Resort might not boast a plethora of amenities, but it makes up for it with its focus on tranquility and relaxation.
The heart of the resort revolves around the inviting outdoor infinity swimming pool.
We love this area so much that before we sleep, we spend some time swimming here (even made new friends), and after having breakfast we also do some laps.
Surrounded by sun loungers and shaded areas, it’s the perfect place to cool off and soak up the Siquijor sunshine for people who want to have a tan.
If your skin is sensitive to the sun and you forgot to bring a rash guard, fret not! You can approach the reception area or any staff and ask if you can rent one.
I paid my rented rash guard for 75 pesos.
For those seeking a more active experience, the resort has a lovely garden area perfect for strolls.
The well-maintained walkways meander through the property, providing a chance to commune with nature and escape the confines of your room.
At night, you can even see fireflies in one of the trees!
📢 Join the community! Make sure you join our Philippines Hidden Gems – Travel Community. This is the place to ask any questions about your trip, to be inspired, and to connect with other Philippines travelers. Click here to join!
While there isn’t a spa on-site, the peaceful environment itself is enough to melt away stress.
But if you are an animal lover, you can spend time with the resident dogs like Justin, Shakira, and Celine. They’re easy to spot and really friendly!
🍽️ Delicious Local Cuisine
South Mountain Resort features a restaurant (Tuko Restaurant) that serves a variety of Filipino dishes and international cuisine.
During my stay, we had a late-night snack after our arrival and check-in. We ordered a hamburger, fries, and a milkshake.
We savored the snacks while swimming in the pool and having conversations with our new friends.
I wrap up my evening with warm milk delivered to our room straight from the kitchen.
The next morning, I enjoyed a delicious breakfast spread with local favorites like longganisa (Filipino sausage) and silog (garlic fried rice with two eggs).
The portions were generous, and the food was cooked to perfection!
The on-site restaurant is a convenient option, especially for those who prefer to stay within the resort for their meals.
Your food will be served with a smile from one of the staff of South Mountain Resort.
🍃 A Perfect Escape for Peace Seekers
South Mountain Resort is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a peaceful and scenic retreat in Siquijor.
The comfortable accommodations, beautiful surroundings, and friendly staff create a relaxing atmosphere.
While the resort itself offers limited amenities, it caters perfectly to those who prioritize tranquility and unwinding amidst nature. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
👉🏻 Ideal for
- Relaxation seekers: If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle and simply unwind by the pool or on your balcony with a good book, South Mountain Resort is perfect.
- Nature lovers: The resort’s location amidst rolling hills and lush greenery provides a constant connection with nature.
- Budget-conscious travelers: While not luxurious, the resort offers comfortable and clean accommodations at a reasonable or mid-range price.
👉🏻 Things to Consider
- Limited nightlife: If you’re looking for a lively resort with bars and discos, South Mountain Resort might not be the best fit.
- Fewer on-site activities: The resort offers a swimming pool and a garden area, but there are limited organized activities within the resort itself.
- Transportation: While tricycles and motorbikes are readily available, having your own transportation might be more convenient for exploring the island.
🌊 Exploring the Siquijor Island
Siquijor is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The resort’s location may not be a great base for exploring the island if you have a fast-paced travel style.
We stayed at South Mountain Resort on our third night and we already visited some of the Siquijor tourist spots.
But if you rented a motorbike and it’s your first day on the island and you’re wondering to explore, you can visit the nearby Tubod Beach, known for its relaxed atmosphere and clear waters.
You can also do a Tarzan swing at one of the Siquijor Falls like the Cambugahay Falls, and for a touch of history, you can visit the centuries-old Balete Tree, a towering wonder said to be over 400 years old.
✨ Final Tips
🎒 Pack light clothing and comfortable shoes for exploring the island.
🩱 Don’t forget your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the pool.
😎 Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential for the sunny Siquijor weather.
💸 Consider bringing cash as some smaller shops and restaurants in Siquijor might not accept credit cards.
🗺️ Download a map or offline navigation app, as some areas of the island might have limited internet access.
🏨 Book your stay at Agoda or Booking.com to get the best deals for your vacation.
Overall Impression: A Review of South Mountain Resort in Siquijor Island
South Mountain Resort offers a charming and comfortable haven for a relaxing island getaway. I can vouch for that. 😉
The breathtaking views, peaceful surroundings, and friendly service create a truly rejuvenating experience.
It may not be a great base for exploring Siquijor’s natural beauty and rich culture, but keep in mind it caters to a specific type of traveler – those seeking peace and tranquility above all else.
To end this post, I would love to spend another day at South Mountain Resort again!
🏝️ Travel Resources for Your Siquijor Trip
Here’s everything you need to book your trip to Siquijor—ferries, places to stay, local transport, and more.
How to Get to Siquijor – Book ferry tickets to Siquijor from Dumaguete, Bohol, or Cebu using 12Go, which shows updated routes, schedules, and prices from trusted ferry and flight operators.
Where to Book Your Stay – Find beach resorts, guesthouses, and budget hostels in San Juan or Larena through Booking.com, Agoda, Vrbo, or Airbnb, with options for every budget.
Getting Around the Island – Rent a motorbike (₱300–₱500/day), hop on a tricycle for short rides or full-day tours, or ask your hotel to arrange private transport for longer routes.
Book Tours and Activities – Explore waterfalls, caves, and beaches by booking guided experiences on Klook , GetYourGuide, or Viator, or simply ask locals once you’re on the island.
Stay Connected – Use an Airalo eSIM for reliable data, rent pocket WiFi from Klook if you’re in a group, or grab a Globe or Smart SIM card before you arrive.
Cash, ATMs, and Payments – Bring enough pesos before heading to the island, as ATMs are limited and card payments are rarely accepted outside major resorts.
Travel Insurance – Protect your trip with coverage from SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads, especially if you’re riding motorbikes or joining outdoor tours.
Check Out These Recommended Articles:
- Siquijor Resorts: The Top 16 Places to Stay
- 9 Must-Try Beach Resorts in Siquijor, Philippines
- 3 Siquijor Glamping Spots to Try (+ 4 Fun Alternatives)
- Why RUNIK Siquijor is the Perfect Escape for Adults Only?
- How to Get to Siquijor: The Ultimate Travel Guide
- Where to Stay in Siquijor: A Local’s Insider Tips on the Best Areas & Resorts
- An Honest Review of Villa Marmarine Beach Resort and Restaurant on Siquijor
About the Author
Hi! I’m Kristine (aka KR). I’m the main developer of Philippine Hidden Gems. My work includes going to places to cover events and places that I’m happy to share with the readers.
Even though I’m an introvert who loves to read and stay indoors all the time, I love to travel outside the country (at least once a year) and nearby regions within PH.
My recent hobbies include learning Japanese culture and exploring the world of K-Pop as a Carat.
