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Pansukian Resort in Siargao, Philippines
This exquisite boutique resort sits on one of the most natural of the many Philippine Islands – Siargao off the northern coast of Mindanao. Set in an old coconut plantation fronted by a tranquil lagoon and surrounded by ancient mangroves interspersed with sublime beaches, the Pansukian Resort is an ensemble so stunning that it’s been featured in the prestigious magazine Architectural Digest.
Blending classical Filipino design with Thai, Malay and Cambodian influences, the cottages and villas sit in timeless union with the mature tropical gardens, including many of the plantation’s mature old coconuts.
Wooden pagodas are set at strategic points around the property for shade, but also acting as a focus for peaceful reading, contemplation or meditation.
All the accommodation, from the Garden Cottages, through the Tropical Villas, to the Superior Tropical Villas, have been built out of locally sourced materials, from the polished floorboards to the thatched roofs. Walls are soothing and pale, with accents of terracotta. Local crafts feature throughout, from the relief details of the carved coffee tables or around bedroom mirrors, to the woven rattan of the umbrella stands, and it is these myriad little touches in the accessories that make the accommodation so delightful.
Pansukian is the brainchild of a young French lawyer, Nicolas Rambeau. Taking a sabbatical from his busy schedule, he was travelling around Southeast Asia in the mid-1990s when he discovered this corner of paradise and happily packed up his briefs in Paris to start a new life in Siargao.
All the buildings are his invention and his natural gift for design shines through in every detail of the property, though he has no formal qualifications. The infectious delight he displays in living his life here is apparent as soon as you meet him and his vivacious partner Gai. Great Dane Napo completes the family.
(L. Bennett, Island Guide: Philippines, 2008)