EL Nido, Palawan, is known for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, small and large lagoons, as well as the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago, which is a group of islands with steep cliffs, dive sites and fish-filled crystal-clear waters.
It is also currently ranked No. 4 in Condé Nast Traveler’s list of “20 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World” and was also named the Best Beach and Island destination in the Philippines for its “extraordinary natural splendor and ecosystem” by CNN.
EL Nido, Palawan, has established itself as a special point of interest on the world map. Leading global international tour operators have included El Nido in their list of beach and high-end adventure travel destinations, as well as their bucket lists of adventurers all over the globe.
Having said that, the place most visited in Palawan today aside from El Nido Resorts is Lio Beach, which is also located in El Nido within Bacuit Bay on the west coast of the northern portion of the Palawan Province. Lio Beach is only five minutes away from Lio Airport, where AirSWIFT flies directly from Manila. Several flights depart daily to and from Naia Terminal 4 and the flight to Lio Terminal Airport only takes an hour and 10 minutes.
El Nido is where people from all walks of life are reborn and rejuvenated after soaking in the waters of its tranquil lagoons and beaches. The white sands of Lio Beach, pristine waters, signature Filipino hospitality, as well as great bar and restaurants lined up along the shore, are irresistible to locals and foreigners alike.
Amid these untouched and seemingly surreal settings at Lio Beach is the newest and only five-star resort hotel—Seda Lio. The resort, which is only 20 minutes away from El Nido town, is the perfect choice for those who want a peaceful stay away from the crowds and noise of the beachfront, yet still close enough to the island’s attractions. Privacy and sheer relaxation are guaranteed.
The nice thing about being located in the tropics is that the nature-feel of the island is maintained in such a way that it still feels homey unlike a city hotel. You’re on an island, so you should feel the tropical ambiance, even when you’re already inside your room.
Because Seda Lio has always maintained its cozy and classy vibe, each room in the resort is simple and elegant and the amenities are sure to get guests in the island paradise mood.
The 153-room Seda Lio Hotel, which has been designed to showcase its unique setting within Lio Tourism Estate, was recently awarded a spot in the global list of “Sustainable Destinations Top 100.” The prestigious list drawn up by an international jury recognizes tourist spots that exhibit overall sustainability and success in destination management.
Lio’s character and design are guided by principles of sustainability—developing the land with the least impact on the environment. Seda Lio Hotel, just like El Nido Resorts, which are its sister companies under AyalaLand Hotels and Resorts Corp., are some of the advocates that help keep Palawan inhabitable while empowering its communities, take care of its indigenous people, as well as protect and conserve Palawan’s biodiversity.
“One of the most important activities that we contribute to sustainability in El Nido is waste segregation,” said Seda Lio’s Assistant Front Office Manager Jaiah Reodica.
“Used plastic has the risk of escaping into the environment. Even when it’s in landfills, plastic can be blown away and end up in the ocean. For biodiversity during summer, we help nesting female sea turtles hatch and lay their eggs in the beach,” added Reodica.
Seda Lio is situated along Lio’s expansive 4-kilometer length of ivory beach, which is naturally oriented toward this stretch of paradise. Seda Lio also offers many photogenic views within its sprawling 4-hectare site of the lush inland mangrove forest, the emerald bay known for its rich marine biodiversity and the ancient limestone cliffs and dense vegetation of Cadlao island. Cadlao is located just across the water from the hotel.
Seda Group General Manager Brett Hickey is happiest when guests arriving at the hotel are impressed by all the natural attractions that surround them rather than the built environment. “Our location within a nature retreat makes Seda Lio unique. We build on that experience by further offering more options for relaxation like a two-level infinity pool with special areas for kids and cabanas, a spa, an all-day dining facility that offers al fresco or air-conditioned seating, and rooms designed for comfort and relaxation, each one with a balcony.”
All those features and facilities remain respectful of the environment, said Hickey. “For instance, there are no Seda Lio structures constructed higher than the coconut tree line. Buildings fronting the beach have also been built some distance away from the waterline in anticipation of storm surges.”
For island hopping, picture taking, watersports such as kayaking, diving and snorkeling, one can visit Pinagbuyutan Island, Cadlao Island, Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Entalula Beach, Cathedral Cave, Pansandingan Beach, Big and Small lagoons and more. However, Seda Lio can arrange a group tour for their guests through their partners, including El Swift Tours, El Nido Yachting Club and Adventures Scuba. One can also rent an exclusive boat for only P2,500 inclusive of captain, tour guide and life jackets for taking in the different breathtaking sights of El Nido.
Since its opening in August last year, Seda Lio has been a hot spot for both local and foreign tourists, business meetings and seminars, weddings and other groups marking a milestone. Each room offers first-class amenities, including a 48-inch LED HDTV with cable channels, complimentary Wi-Fi and strong Internet access. The Deluxe room is 45 square meters in size with balcony the Suite is 76 sq m with a bedroom, executive desk, living room and balcony, while the Presidential Suite is 148 sq m with a bedroom and sofa bed, living and dining room, kitchenette and expanded balcony, as well as media panel with HDMI, USB and AV connectivity.
Other facilities of Seda Lio that guests enjoy are the Misto, an all-day dining restaurant served by very hospitable waiters and waitresses; Pool Bar, Game Room, function rooms for up to 300 persons including El Nido’s only indoor ballroom that can seat 150; state-of-the-art gym; Spa Villas with eight treatment rooms; Lobby Lounge with viewing deck overlooking the Cadlao lagoon; and Children’s Playroom and Outdoor Play Area.
The one thing that stands out at Seda Lio is their personalized service. Guests who have stayed at the resort marvel at the handwritten notes and surprise treats they find when they return to their room. These are just some of the simple things that make your stay at Seda Lio a total bliss.