Lugar Bonito: A Touch of Santorini in Boracay


With all the hotels and resorts popping out in what is perhaps the most famous island of the Philippines, how do you stand out? Lugar Bonito, a Greek-inspired boutique hotel situated in Station 1 in Boracay Island, Philippines, knows how. If you are looking for unique accommodations in Boracay, this hotel should definitely be on top of your list. With only 6 rooms, the hotel is intimate, cozy, and homey—offering a lovely nest easily accessible through the main highway and only a short walk away from the shore.

It’s hard not to think of the ocean—or of Santorini—when you set your sights upon Lugar Bonito’s façade. White and deep blue hues instantly give off a cool, relaxing, and inviting vibe. From the entryway alone, anyone would feel a shift in mood and would definitely be charmed. Read on to find out more about Lugar Bonito.



The Location

Lugar Bonito sits in Station 1 (near the end of Station 2), which is known to be quieter than the rest of White Beach. Although it's not a beachfront property, the shore is just 2 to 3 minutes away by foot, and if you wish to get a tricycle to take you to other parts of the island, you can easily get one once you step out of the hotel. Furthermore, there are many restaurants and bars around the vicinity, so if you find yourself suddenly craving for a late night snack or a beer to end the night with, you will not have a shortage of options.

Moreover, since it's in Station 1, it's considerably closer to other beaches of Boracay, like Diniwid and Ilig-Iligan.


The Rooms

We stayed in a Standard Room (check rates), a small yet very cozy room that features a Queen-size bed, a flatscreen TV, and an en suite bathroom. I can’t help but admire the way the room is decorated: similar Greek elements and patterns are replicated here, from the pillows that bring a pop to the dominantly white beddings to the grilles installed on the wall behind the bed—like an intricate headboard. Carefully-selected ornaments finish the entire look.

I love how the knickknacks bring life to the otherwise all-white look of the room. Patterns mingle with woodwork, not one with a regular pattern. Everything was well-thought-of, and the result is a space where all elements blend harmoniously.

A wall-mounted shelf on the left lets guests put some of their stuff on it and shares space with the TV. Tucked underneath is a small safety box. Luggage can be stored under the shelf. On the right, there’s a drawer chest for extra storage space. By the foot of the bed is an armchair, along with more floating shelves.

The high bed is soft, huge, and comfortable—positioned right at the center of the room. Indeed it’s like being in your own little haven.

The bathroom has a sink, a toilet with bidet, and a hot-and-cold shower. Complimentary toiletries are provided. I liked the colorful floor with mismatched tiles; even in this part of the room, the creativity of the owners doesn’t stop showing. The double doors leading to the bathroom add to the overall charm.

We also got to peek into the bigger Superior Room and Family Room (good for 4). No two rooms look alike, but all of them overflow with the same charm and character.

Superior Room


Family Room








Dining

Lugar Bonito doesn’t have its own restaurant. However, the hotel still serves complimentary breakfast to all checked-in guests—and you can enjoy it either in the comfort of your own room or at the rooftop, which offers an amazing view of the sea. We, of course, chose the latter—dining with a view is ALWAYS better. We got up extra early to make sure we could have the roofdeck to ourselves. There’s nothing more calming than Boracay’s blue waters.

Upon checking in, guests can advise the front desk what time they would like to have their breakfast, so that the staff can prepare the food in time. Since we chose the earliest time possible, nobody else was awake so we got to play around with my friend’s drone!



The hotel also provides guests with a list of restaurants and activities—all recommendations by the owner—and whether you’re a first timer or a seasoned Boracay traveler, it’s always good to trust a local’s advice on things like this. In addition, you can get discounts from their partner establishments (like Obama Grill)—just ask the front desk for details.


Lugar Bonito: A Unique Accommodation Choice in Boracay

Sometimes, those big-brand hotel chains just don’t seem appealing anymore. If you are looking for a unique place to stay in Boracay, you must check out Lugar Bonito and discover its Greek-inspired charm, plush beds, lovely interiors, relaxing roofdeck, and friendly staff. Only a few hotels in Boracay exude a certain kind of allure—Lugar Bonito is definitely one of them. How does it stand out? It does so not by offering the biggest rooms or the largest pools, but by showcasing a character that leaves a lasting impression on travelers.


~*~
Lugar Bonito
Main Road, Station 1, Balabag, Boracay, Aklan
+6336.288.1247

Criteria
Facilities
Service
Dining
Ambience
Location
TOTAL
Rating
3/5
4/5
3/5
5/5
4/5
3.8
Comments
The rooms are small but well-designed, with quality beddings and toiletries.
Helpful staff, with good recommendations on island dining and activities.
Breakfast was good. The roofdeck is a nice dining spot.
The hotel transports you from Boracay to somewhere else.
Near the highway and the beach, and lots of restaurants/bars.
Unique hotel choice with good amenities and ambience.

Points for improvement:
  • Add more breakfast options; increase portions.

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Have you stayed at Lugar Bonito? What do you think about it?

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