PICO DE LORO, SUMMER DESTINATION. A tranquil cove is the perfect summer getaway. All photos by Rappler

MANILA, Philippines - For those who like to plan their summers ahead of time, here’s a good place to start.

Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club in Hamilo Coast, visited by the Rappler team for our team-building last December 2012, is the perfect getaway. Three hours away from Metro Manila, the resort is a blend of majestic, forested mountains, and tranquil beach cove.

You get the best of both of worlds here. If adventure and exercise are your goals this summer, you can do laps in their beach-side pool, go snorkeling in the nearby coral reefs, or hike through the mountain forests.

If you’d rather relax and unwind, you can hit the resort spa, go sunbathing in the beach, drink a few beers in the bar, or tuck in with a book in the library.

Aside from the resort’s beautifully-designed buildings, guests will appreciate the sound eco-friendly practices the resort observes.

ALSO READ: Pico de Loro: Where ‘eco’ and ‘tourism’ meet

If these haven’t already begun to pique your interest, here are some photos that might do the trick:

Modern and breezy structures house guests

Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club’s breezy, sunlit lobby

Quiet corners in the library beckon to guests who just want to tuck in with a book

Modern woven lounge chairs are the perfect accent pieces to put beside the pool

Clean waters beckon to weary souls

Active lifestyles are encouraged

Take a breather beside the sea

The sleek yet ethnic country club faces the beach

Inside the country club with its beach-side pool

Even the lifeguard post is well-designed

A war-time weapon or a telescope? Only one way to find out

Welcome the night with a picturesque and soothing dusk

Scottish loch? Nope, it's Pico de Loro's man-made lake

Nights are peaceful, quiet, and cool

- Rappler.com

[Do YOU love going around the Philippines? Where are you off to this summer? Tell us! Or share with us your most memorable trip around our country so far. Email your story and photos (lots of them) to desk@rappler.com. Use the subject heading #PHTravel.]