Badly needing an escape from the urban hustle and wanting to reconnect with nature? Nestled in the serene countryside of Nueva Ecija, Aves Estate is a family-owned paradise that offers the perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility and simplicity.
Last week, I have been fortunate to be invited by my friend and fellow aromatherapist, Lou Caballero, to visit their 10-hectare farm in General Tinio, which is a small town that is about 3 hours north of Metro Manila.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains, this stunning expanse of land is lovingly managed by the Aves-Caballero siblings. In this natural sanctuary, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the countryside and enjoy the ultimate experience of bonding with nature.
Beyond exploring the Estate itself, what truly captivated me was the unique talents each Aves-Caballero sibling brought to the table, breathing new life into this once-forgotten property. Each sibling would have an area from Aves Estate to showcase their talents. Nevertheless, their combined creativity, dedication, and vision have transformed it into a vibrant and thriving destination, showcasing the power of family unity and shared passion.
Lou is a gifted botanical beauty care formulator and certified aromatherapist, blending expertise with passion to create exceptional skin-loving products. She operates from Bahay Estelita, a charming space named after her beloved aunt who once called it home. Now transformed into her workshop, Bahay Estelita serves as the heart of Lou’s artistry, where she crafts skincare formulations that reflect her deep knowledge and mastery in natural beauty care.
Gabby is a talented landscape architect with professional experience in Singapore, where he contributed to the stunning Gardens by the Bay and the rejuvenation of the Mandai precinct, focusing on the “Rainforest Wild” project—a testament to his exceptional skills. Renowned for his keen eye for detail and artistic vision, Gabby brings nature and design together to create breathtaking, functional landscapes that leave a lasting impression.
One of his first renovation projects was the transformation of the atrium, which now stands as the vibrant centerpiece of their family home—a space that beautifully reflects his design expertise and passion for creating picturesque environments.
The guest room was nothing short of impressive, exuding charm with its thoughtful attention to detail and celebration of Filipino and native design. The space is naturally cool, generously spacious, and incredibly comfortable, making it a true retreat. Every corner is impeccably styled, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modern aesthetics—definitely Instagram-worthy!
Oh, and have I mentioned that the entire Estate is solar-powered and uses Starlink as their internet provider? So if you’re someone who needs to work remotely, spending a few days at Aves Estate will never be a problem.
As night falls, the pace slows to pure relaxation. The terrace becomes the perfect retreat, where you can unwind and savor the gentle breeze. Whether you’re lost in the pages of a good book or engaged in casual yet meaningful conversations, the tranquil ambiance makes every moment feel effortlessly serene.
On my first night at Aves Estate, Butch gave us the unique opportunity to explore the art of hydrosol distillation firsthand. Surrounded by an abundance of plant materials like oregano, citronella, and lemongrass, we were able to dive right into the distillation process, each of us trying our hand at extracting these powerful, aromatic essences. It was an incredible, hands-on experience that deepened my appreciation for the craft.
The nature-driven activities at Aves Estate are endless, each offering a unique way to connect with the environment and one’s inner self. But one of the true highlights of my trip was the mandala-making session led by Lou. As we created intricate patterns with flowers and leaves, Lou shared the profound lesson of impermanence—that nothing lasts forever, and beauty can be found in the fleeting moments of creation. It was a deeply reflective experience, reminding us to embrace the present and appreciate the transient beauty of life. The combination of nature and mindfulness truly made it a transformative experience.
We then brought the mandala I made during our tea party at the sunken garden, where its intricate design perfectly complemented the serene surroundings. The peaceful ambiance of the garden, paired with the meaningful symbolism of the mandala, made for a truly unforgettable experience.
Despite the saying, “The second generation inherits and grows the family fortune, while the third generation squanders it and destroys the business,” Aves Estate stands as a remarkable exception. This sprawling family-owned estate in General Tinio thrives under the dedicated management of its third generation, defying expectations, and continuing its legacy of success.
If you’re longing to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, Aves Estate is your sanctuary. Here, life moves at a gentler pace—where every moment feels like a deep breath for the soul.
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