Esoy Hot Spring in Catmon Cebu
While everyone else decided to go to the beach and bask in the heat of the Semana Santa heat, we decided to go uphill and enjoy the cold breeze of Barangay Duyan, Catmon, Cebu.
Celso “Esoy” Bustamante bought a property in Duyan Catmon and was planning to build a rest house for his family. Of all his property, it is with this one that he felt very attached to because of its secluded nature. While planning and sketching, his Japanese friend, who happened to be the previous manager of Alegre Beach Resort (a renowned resort in Cebu), introduced to him an idea of instead transforming his land into a mountain resort. They noticed flowing water on the Esoy’s land and discovered that it was indeed a hot spring. Esoy researched and studied the formation of hot springs. And on 2006, Esoy Hot Spring was blessed by a Catholic priest and soon gathered guests, local and foreigners by word of mouth.
Filipino guests get to pay the P100 entrance fee while foreigners get to pay P300. This is Esoy’s way of allowing Filipino to enjoy what most foreigners love about the Philippines, our abundant natural resources. I’ve actually read reviews of the resort and labeled Esoy as being a racist. Can we say that owners of five star hotels and resorts are racists also? But then again we have different perspective and opinions.
Going there through a Ceres Bus Liner will cost you P68 (Non-aircon) from the North Bus Terminal. Other than Ceres bus, a mini-bus is available for P60. The drop-off point is JM Enterprise in Duyan Catmon, then turn left. Since the hot spring is still 5 km from the corner, you need to ride a “habal-habal” or a motorcycle for P25 per person. But for a much convenient trip, you can hire a van which is always available for any destination. If you have your own vehicle, the better. You don’t have worry though of passing through bumpy roads because the pavement is actually cemented ensuring a smooth ride. The road is safe with the mountains as your witness.
Always remember though, no booking no entry. Should you decide to go to the place, call them. The place can only accommodate few guests.
Tables and chairs are available. An overnight stay is accommodated for limited guests so as not disturb nature at night. You need to bring your food and drinks because there are neither convenient stores nearby nor the resort serve food but if you choose to cook, you can contact a “habal-habal” (what is Habal-Habal?) to accompany you to Catmon market.
When we arrived, we were welcomed by Esoy with the very accommodating pitch. Another warning, should you ride a “habal-habal” in going there, don’t contract them to wait for you as they will require you to pay higher fees. There are “habal-habal” taking passengers close by.
After several introductions, we started descending. A little trek down is good for the heart, right? Don’t worry though, you will enjoy the downhill walk, and before you know it, you’re in the facility already. My mind maintained its excitement. You really cannot expect a world-class facility, yet, but the anticipation of a hot spring experience is overwhelming. I mean, we usually hear or prefer a cold spring than a hot spring, right? I mean, we are in a tropical country. We want to stay in air-conditioned place, right? So the stimulation is getting in my toes while I took tons of pictures so that I could also show them to you. According to the internet, hot spring strengthens your heart. Nice.
A side trip offered by Esoy is the river trekking going to Caningo Falls. For the guests’ safety, we are to rent lifejacket (P50) and trekking shoes (P50) but for those who are used to trekking, you may trek at your own risk without the gears.
Reserve your visit at telephone number (032) 4309250, Esoy or Menen will be on the line.
