An Overnight Stay at Rockwoods Agritourism Park: Sustainable Art, Ilocano Food, and Nature in Aritao

Our recent trip to Nueva Vizcaya began with a memorable overnight experience at Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary in Aritao. Surrounded by nature, mountain scenery, and the quiet countryside, the property offered a refreshing break from our usual travel routine.

In a drone shot, the property looks like a beautiful resting area atop a striking rock formation. I always appreciate destinations that offer more than beautiful scenery. I enjoy places that encourage visitors to slow down, connect with nature, discover local food, and participate in meaningful activities. Rockwoods delivered exactly that.

We spent our first day at the park enjoying a farm-to-table lunch overlooking the mountains and rice fields, taking part in a sustainable art activity, and ending the evening with a bonfire dinner featuring traditional Ilocano dishes.

The experience became particularly meaningful when we met the park’s owner, Ms. Marie de Pona, who shared her story, the beginnings of Rockwoods, and her future plans for the property.

Our overnight stay let us experience the park beyond a quick visit. From the peaceful surroundings to the communal dinner, Rockwoods offered a combination of agritourism, wellness, sustainability, and Filipino hospitality.

Rockwoods Agritourism Park: A Farm Tourism Destination in Nueva Vizcaya

Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary is part of the province’s growing farm tourism industry, which encourages visitors to explore agricultural destinations while appreciating nature and rural life.

Unlike conventional resorts that focus mainly on swimming pools and accommodation, Rockwoods offers an experience centered on nature, sustainability, outdoor activities, mental health, and community engagement.

The property combines the appeal of a countryside retreat with agritourism, encouraging visitors to appreciate the environment and experience activities beyond traditional sightseeing.

During our visit, I noticed how the different parts of the experience complemented one another. We enjoyed local food, participated in an art activity, shared a meal around a bonfire, and stayed overnight in one of the park’s Mushroom Cabanas.

It was relaxing, but it also encouraged us to reflect on sustainability, creativity, and the importance of preserving our connection with nature.

Meet Ms. Marie de Pona: The Vision Behind Rockwoods

One highlight of our visit was meeting Ms. Marie de Pona, the owner and visionary behind Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary.

She warmly welcomed us and shared how the property began, what inspired her, and her aspirations for its future. Hearing her journey deepened my appreciation for the dedication behind creating a destination that brings together tourism, environmental awareness, and personal well-being.

Beyond her agritourism work, Ms. Marie is also passionate about mental health advocacy. Her commitment to promoting emotional wellness and creating spaces for reflection adds another meaningful dimension to Rockwoods. Through her mental health advocacy and consultation services, she hopes to help people better understand their well-being, find support, and navigate personal challenges. This commitment reflects the sanctuary’s broader purpose of encouraging visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature, and make time for themselves.

Rockwoods is more than a place for day trips or overnight stays. It represents a vision of a peaceful environment where sustainable living, nature, creativity, and wellness come together. The sustainable art activity we participated in was a wonderful example of this approach, encouraging us to express ourselves creatively while appreciating the environment. The communal bonfire dinner further strengthened the sense of connection and shared experience.

Ms. Marie’s plans for Rockwoods highlight agritourism’s potential in Nueva Vizcaya. Her vision goes beyond developing a tourism destination. It is about creating meaningful experiences that support environmental appreciation, mental wellness, and a deeper connection with the community.

Meeting her made our visit even more memorable. It reminded me that behind every inspiring destination is a person whose passion and purpose help shape its identity.

Farm-to-Table Lunch with a View of the Mountains and Ricefields

Upon arriving at Rockwoods, we started with lunch at their Farm-to-Table Restaurant and Café.

The restaurant’s setting immediately caught my attention. We enjoyed our meal while taking in the beautiful mountain scenery and surrounding rice fields. The combination of fresh countryside air and expansive views made it an inviting place to relax after our journey.

I always enjoy dining at places where the setting contributes as much to the experience as the food. At Rockwoods, the scenery made our lunch feel like a welcome introduction to the slower pace of farm tourism.

Our Farm-to-Table Lunch

We were served a selection of local Filipino dishes:

• Native pork nilaga
• Crispy fried tilapia
• Brown rice
• Flavorful pinakbet
• Matamis na saba for dessert

The native pork nilaga was comforting and hearty, making it a fitting dish for a countryside lunch. Nilaga is a familiar Filipino soup featuring meat and vegetables, and it is especially satisfying when enjoyed in a relaxed setting.

The crispy fried tilapia was another highlight. Its crisp exterior and familiar flavor made it a wonderful addition to the meal. We also had brown rice, which complemented the dishes, and pinakbet, one of Northern Luzon’s most recognizable vegetable dishes.

Pinakbet is traditionally associated with Ilocano cuisine and typically combines vegetables such as bitter melon, eggplant, squash, string beans, and other locally available ingredients. Its characteristic savory flavor often comes from bagoong.

For dessert, we enjoyed matamis na saba, a simple Filipino sweet made with saba bananas cooked until tender and flavorful.

The meal was a wonderful introduction to Nueva Vizcaya’s local flavors. It reminded me that farm tourism is not only about exploring agricultural properties. It is also about appreciating the food, ingredients, and culinary traditions connected to the countryside.

The Farm-to-Table Restaurant and Café is worth highlighting as an attraction in its own right. Whether you are visiting for a day tour or staying overnight, I recommend taking time to enjoy a meal while appreciating the surrounding mountain and rice field views.

Sustainable Art and Mental Health Appreciation

After lunch, Ms. Marie hosted an activity that became one of the most meaningful parts of our visit.

It was a sustainable art activity that combined creativity, environmental appreciation, and mental health awareness.

I appreciated how the activity encouraged everyone to participate. Instead of simply listening to a presentation about sustainability or wellness, we got to engage in something creative and enjoyable.

Art encourages people to slow down and focus on the present moment. It can also provide an opportunity for self-expression, relaxation, and connection with others.

Combining this with sustainability made the activity even more interesting.

The experience encouraged us to appreciate how creative activities can help people reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. It also highlighted how art can promote environmental awareness.

I found the activity refreshing because it was not about competition or producing something perfect. It was about participating, enjoying the process, and appreciating the experience together.

This is one of the things that makes Rockwoods different from an ordinary resort. Activities like this can transform a simple visit into something more meaningful.

For travelers seeking wellness retreats, group activities, or nature-based experiences, the blend of art and mental health appreciation is a welcome addition.

A Bonfire Dinner with Traditional Ilocano Flavors

As evening approached, we gathered for a bonfire dinner, which became one of the most memorable parts of our overnight stay.

There is something special about sharing a meal outdoors. The atmosphere feels more relaxed, conversations become more natural, and everyone gets a chance to participate.

At Rockwoods, dinner was not simply served to us. Everyone helped prepare the food, making the experience more interactive and enjoyable.

Preparing Insarabasab Together

One dish we prepared was Insarabasab, a traditional Ilocano grilled pork dish.

Insarabasab is commonly made with grilled pork, often pork belly or other cuts, sliced and seasoned with onions, calamansi or another citrus, and other local seasonings.

The pork is grilled until it develops a smoky flavor, then combined with its seasoning and aromatics. The result is a savory dish with a distinctive blend of grilled richness, citrus freshness, and onion flavor.

Insarabasab is sometimes compared to other Filipino grilled pork dishes, but its traditional Ilocano preparation and seasoning give it a distinct character.

What I enjoyed most was participating in the preparation. It let us appreciate the food beyond simply tasting it.

Cooking together around the bonfire also created a sense of camaraderie. Everyone contributed, and the dinner became a shared experience rather than just another meal.

For me, this is the kind of activity that makes an overnight stay at a farm resort memorable.

Grilled Vegetables with Fish Bagoong

We also prepared grilled vegetables served with fish bagoong.

The dish reminded me of pinakbet, but instead of sautéing the vegetables, we grilled them.

The grilling gave the vegetables a smoky flavor, while the fish bagoong added the familiar savory, salty taste of Ilocano cuisine.

It was a simple but flavorful way to enjoy vegetables.

The experience highlighted the importance of local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. It also demonstrated how familiar Filipino dishes can be prepared differently while retaining their regional identity.

I enjoyed how the bonfire dinner brought together food, culture, participation, and outdoor relaxation.

It was a wonderful way to end our first day at Rockwoods.

Overnight Stay at Rockwoods Agritourism Park

After a full day of activities, we settled into our overnight accommodations at Rockwoods.

I stayed in one of their Mushroom Cabanas, a charming accommodation option designed for guests who want to experience the countryside without spending too much on lodging.

The cabana can accommodate up to three people, making it a practical option for couples, small families, or friends traveling together.

Mushroom Cabana: A Budget-Friendly Overnight Stay

The Mushroom Cabana costs PHP 1,200 per night based on the rate during our visit.

The accommodation includes:

• Capacity for up to three persons
• Beddings
• Swimming pool use

For travelers looking for an affordable overnight stay in Aritao, the Mushroom Cabana offers a practical way to enjoy the property without booking a larger room or accommodation.

I appreciated staying within the resort grounds. It meant we didn’t have to rush home after activities and dinner.

Staying overnight also allowed us to enjoy the experience at a more relaxed pace.

The rate mentioned reflects our visit and should be confirmed with Rockwoods before booking, as accommodation prices and inclusions may change.

Rockwoods Agritourism Park Accommodation Options

The following table summarizes the accommodation information we gathered during our visit.

Accommodation	Capacity	Rate	Inclusions
Mushroom Cabana	Up to 3 persons	PHP 1,200/night	Bedding and pool use
Other accommodation options	To be confirmed	Contact the property	Confirm capacity, rates, and inclusions

The Mushroom Cabana is the accommodation I personally experienced. For larger groups or families requiring additional rooms, I recommend asking Rockwoods directly about other lodging arrangements, availability, and current rates.

Before booking, confirm whether the pool is available during your preferred stay, the check-in and check-out schedule, and whether towels or other amenities are provided.

Facilities and Activities at Rockwoods Agritourism Park

Rockwoods offers a combination of nature-based recreation, relaxation, dining, and overnight accommodation. The facilities and experiences we enjoyed made it appealing for different types of travelers.

Here are the highlights worth considering when planning a visit.

Swimming Pool

The swimming pool is included in the Mushroom Cabana rate we experienced. It offers a chance to relax and cool off during your stay.

Families and groups may find the pool a convenient addition to their farm resort experience.

Farm-to-Table Restaurant and Café

The restaurant and café offer local meals in a scenic setting overlooking mountains and rice fields.

I recommend including a meal here, especially if you enjoy Filipino comfort food and countryside dining.

Mushroom Cabanas

The Mushroom Cabanas provide overnight accommodation for small groups. They are especially useful for visitors who want to enjoy the park’s activities and stay overnight.

Sustainable Art and Wellness Activities

Ms. Marie’s sustainable art activity was a highlight of our visit. It combined creativity, sustainability, and an appreciation for mental health.

This type of activity may be especially appealing to group retreats, educational visits, and wellness-oriented travelers.

Bonfire and Outdoor Dining

The bonfire dinner created a welcoming environment for group interaction and traditional food preparation.

It was one of the experiences that made our overnight stay more memorable.

Nature Appreciation and Outdoor Activities

The property’s natural surroundings make it a suitable destination for visitors who enjoy spending time outdoors.

For specific activities, equipment availability, and guided experiences, coordinate with the park before visiting.

Who Should Visit Rockwoods Agritourism Park?

I would recommend Rockwoods to travelers who want a relaxing countryside experience with opportunities for meaningful activities.

Families

Families can enjoy the swimming pool, farm-to-table meals, outdoor activities, and overnight accommodation.

The mix of nature and interactive experiences makes it a great destination for spending quality time together.

Couples

Couples looking for a quiet retreat may appreciate the peaceful setting, mountain views, outdoor dining, and overnight accommodation.

Groups and Friends

The sustainable art activity and bonfire dinner are particularly appealing for groups.

Rockwoods can be a destination for reunions, group retreats, and shared experiences.

Wellness and Sustainability Enthusiasts

The park’s emphasis on sustainable activities and its focus on mental health make it worth considering for travelers who enjoy wellness-oriented destinations.

Food Enthusiasts

Visitors interested in Ilocano and Northern Luzon cuisine will appreciate the local dishes and communal cooking experience.

The opportunity to prepare Insarabasab and grilled vegetables with fish bagoong adds a cultural element to the visit.

How to Get to Rockwoods Agritourism Park in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya

Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary is located in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya.

The property is in Barangay Beti, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya.

From Metro Manila

Travelers from Metro Manila can take a bus to Nueva Vizcaya or the Cagayan Valley region.

Aritao is accessible via the Maharlika Highway. From the town proper, visitors can arrange local transportation to the park.

By Private Vehicle

Traveling by private vehicle provides greater flexibility, especially if you plan to visit several farm tourism destinations in Nueva Vizcaya.

Use a navigation app and confirm the exact route with Rockwoods before you leave. Rural destinations may require additional navigation beyond the main highway.

Travel Tip

If you are planning an overnight stay, contact the property ahead of time to confirm your reservation, directions, accommodation availability, and meal arrangements.

Travel Tips for Visiting Rockwoods Agritourism Park

Here are some practical recommendations based on our experience:

• Book your accommodation in advance. Confirm the Mushroom Cabana rate, capacity, and inclusions.
• Ask about meals. Confirm whether lunch and dinner are available and whether you need to arrange them in advance.
• Bring comfortable clothing. Choose clothes suitable for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
• Pack swimwear. If you plan to use the swimming pool, bring appropriate swimming attire.
• Bring personal toiletries. Confirm which amenities are provided before packing.
• Prepare for outdoor dining. Bring insect repellent and comfortable footwear.
• Ask about activity schedules. Sustainable art, bonfire cooking, and other activities may require prior arrangements.
• Bring cash. This can be useful for small purchases and incidental expenses.
• Respect the environment. Follow the property’s guidelines and avoid leaving trash behind.
• Confirm current rates and operating arrangements. Accommodation and activity prices may change.

Final Thoughts: A Meaningful Overnight Retreat in Nueva Vizcaya

Our first day in Nueva Vizcaya at Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary was a wonderful introduction to the province’s growing agritourism scene.

What I appreciated most was how the experience went beyond accommodation and sightseeing. We enjoyed a farm-to-table lunch overlooking the mountains and rice fields, took part in a sustainable art activity that combined creativity with an appreciation for mental health, and shared a bonfire dinner featuring traditional Ilocano food.

Meeting Ms. Marie de Pona and hearing her vision for Rockwoods made the visit even more meaningful. Her commitment to developing the property into a destination that encourages sustainability, nature appreciation, and peaceful experiences gives the park a distinctive identity.

The Mushroom Cabana also offered a practical overnight option, letting us enjoy the activities without rushing home.

I would recommend Rockwoods Agritourism Park to travelers looking for a countryside retreat in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya. It is particularly appealing for families, groups, wellness enthusiasts, and travelers who want to experience local food and sustainable tourism.

For me, the best part of visiting Rockwoods was the combination of simple pleasures: good food, beautiful views, creative activities, and meaningful conversations around a bonfire.

Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are not about visiting the most famous attractions. They are about finding places that allow us to slow down, connect with people, and appreciate the beauty of the countryside.

Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary is one of those places.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rockwoods Agritourism Park

1. Where is Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary located?

Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary is located in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines. The property is in Barangay Beti, Aritao. It is part of Nueva Vizcaya’s farm tourism network and can be included in a countryside itinerary around the province. Travelers coming from Metro Manila can reach Aritao by road and arrange local transportation to the park. Contact the property before traveling to confirm directions, reservations, and current visitor arrangements.

2. Who owns Rockwoods Agritourism Park?

Rockwoods Agritourism Park is owned by Ms. Marie de Pona. During our visit, she welcomed us and shared how the park started, along with her future plans and goals for the property. Her vision centers on creating a destination that combines agritourism, sustainability, nature appreciation, and peaceful experiences. The park’s activities, including sustainable art and group cooking, encourage visitors to participate in meaningful experiences rather than simply enjoy conventional resort facilities.

3. How much does the Mushroom Cabana at Rockwoods Agritourism Park cost?

During our overnight stay, the Mushroom Cabana cost PHP 1,200 per night. It accommodates up to three people and includes bedding and access to the swimming pool. The cabana is a practical option for couples, small families, or friends looking for an affordable overnight accommodation in Aritao. The rate reflects our visit and may change. Travelers should contact Rockwoods directly to confirm the current price, availability, inclusions, check-in arrangements, and any additional charges before booking.

4. What facilities are available at Rockwoods Agritourism Park?

Rockwoods Agritourism Park offers overnight accommodation, swimming pool access, a farm-to-table restaurant and café, and outdoor activity areas. Visitors can enjoy scenic mountain and rice field views while dining or participating in activities. The property also offers experiences such as sustainable art activities and bonfire cooking, depending on arrangements. Travelers planning a visit should confirm which facilities are available during their preferred dates. This is particularly important for groups planning events, overnight stays, or activities that require advance coordination with the property.

5. What food is served at the Farm-to-Table Restaurant and Café?

During our visit, we enjoyed native pork nilaga, crispy fried tilapia, brown rice, flavorful pinakbet, and matamis na saba for dessert. The restaurant’s scenic location overlooking mountains and rice fields added to the dining experience. Its menu reflects familiar Filipino comfort food and local flavors. Food offerings may vary depending on the schedule and arrangements, so visitors should check current menus, meal packages, and advance reservation requirements before arriving, especially if they are visiting as a large group.

6. What is Insarabasab, and why is it served at Rockwoods?

Insarabasab is a traditional Ilocano grilled pork dish known for its smoky flavor and citrus-based seasoning. It is commonly made with grilled pork, onions, and ingredients like calamansi or other citrus seasonings. During our bonfire dinner at Rockwoods, everyone helped prepare the dish, making it more than just a meal. The experience allowed us to appreciate traditional Ilocano cooking while enjoying the outdoors. Insarabasab is a particularly interesting dish for travelers who enjoy discovering regional Filipino cuisine.

7. Does Rockwoods Agritourism Park offer activities for groups and retreats?

Rockwoods is worth considering for group outings, retreats, and gatherings because it combines outdoor activities, dining, and overnight accommodation. During our visit, Ms. Marie led a sustainable art activity that combined creativity with an appreciation for mental health. We also joined a bonfire dinner where everyone helped prepare the food. These activities encouraged interaction and teamwork. Groups planning a retreat should contact the park in advance to discuss their preferred activities, schedules, meal arrangements, accommodation requirements, and any special requests.

8. Is Rockwoods Agritourism Park suitable for families?

Yes, Rockwoods Agritourism Park can be an appealing destination for families who enjoy nature, local food, and outdoor experiences. The swimming pool, farm-to-table restaurant, and overnight accommodations provide opportunities for relaxation, while activities such as sustainable art and bonfire cooking can encourage family participation. Parents should confirm facility availability, accommodation capacity, and activity arrangements before visiting. It is also advisable to bring suitable clothing, swimming attire, and personal essentials to make the stay more comfortable.

9. Can visitors stay overnight at Rockwoods Agritourism Park?

Yes, Rockwoods Agritourism Park offers overnight accommodation. During our visit, I stayed in a Mushroom Cabana that accommodated up to three people and cost PHP 1,200 per night, including bedding and swimming pool use. Staying overnight allowed us to enjoy the park’s activities without rushing home after dinner. Visitors interested in booking should confirm current rates, accommodation options, check-in and check-out schedules, and inclusions directly with the property. Accommodation availability may vary by season and visitor demand.

10. Is Rockwoods Agritourism Park worth visiting?

I recommend Rockwoods Agritourism Park to travelers seeking a meaningful countryside experience in Nueva Vizcaya. It combines scenic dining, overnight accommodation, sustainable activities, traditional Ilocano food, and outdoor recreation. Our visit was particularly memorable because of the sustainable art activity hosted by Ms. Marie de Pona and the communal bonfire dinner featuring Insarabasab. The property suits families, groups, wellness enthusiasts, and travelers interested in agritourism. Visitors can enjoy nature while appreciating sustainability, local food, and Filipino hospitality.

How to Book

Want more updates about Nueva Vizcaya Tourist Attractions? Like, follow, and subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest, and Team Out Of Town on YouTube for more Nueva Vizcaya travel spots.

Read:

• St. Dominic Cathedral In Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
• Lakbay Norte 6: Finding Your North – Nueva Ecija In 48 Hours
• Cordillera Heritage Warrior Caravan: Day 1 – Arrival In Kiangan, Ifugao
• Minalungao National Park In General Tinio, Nueva Ecija
• Top 10 Best NUEVA VIZCAYA TOURIST SPOTS + Things to do