Hidden Garden | Vigan

Information

Landmark: Hidden Garden
City: Vigan
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Hidden Garden, Vigan, Philippines, Asia

Hidden Garden is a lush horticultural sanctuary and restaurant located in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Originally a private residential garden, it has evolved into a sprawling botanical complex featuring tropical plants, orchids, and Bonsai trees.

Visual Characteristics

The site is characterized by dense foliage, brick-lined pathways, and terracotta pottery. The architecture is a mix of rustic Ilocano design and tropical landscaping. The interior restaurant, Lilong and Lilang, features open-air dining under thatched roofs and wooden beams, surrounded by hanging plants and water features.

Location & Access Logistics

The garden is located at 008 Katipunan Street, Barangay Bulala, Vigan City.

Access: It is situated approximately 2.5 kilometers west of the Vigan city center.

Transport: Easily accessible via a 10-minute tricycle or calesa ride from Calle Crisologo. The road leading to the garden passes through residential and agricultural areas.

Operating Hours: Open daily from 06:00 to 18:00.

Fees: Entry to the garden is typically free, though visitors are encouraged to dine at the restaurant or purchase plants.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The garden was established by Francis Flores, a retired engineer and landscape artist. It began as a therapeutic hobby and eventually expanded into a commercial nursery and tourist destination. The ecological focus is on endemic Philippine plants and sustainable gardening practices within a coastal Ilocano environment.

Key Highlights & Activities

Lilong and Lilang Restaurant: Famous for serving traditional Ilocano dishes such as Vigan Empanada, Bagnet, Poqui-poqui, and Warek-warek.

Bonsai Garden: A dedicated section showcasing meticulously trained miniature trees.

Plant Nursery: A retail area where visitors can purchase various indoor and outdoor plants, as well as organic fertilizers.

Prayer Corner: A secluded area within the garden dedicated to meditation and quiet reflection.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: Includes open-air dining areas, public restrooms, and a souvenir shop selling local handicrafts and pottery.

Connectivity: 4G and 5G signals are stable.

Parking: A dedicated parking area is available for private vehicles and tour buses near the entrance.

Best Time to Visit

The morning (08:00–10:00) is optimal for exploring the gardens before the midday temperature rises. Lunchtime is the peak period for the restaurant. For a quieter experience, late afternoon (16:00–17:30) offers cooler temperatures and softer lighting for photography.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature of Hidden Garden is its "Healing Garden" concept, where the layout is designed to promote physical and mental well-being through nature. It is a popular venue for garden weddings and cultural events in Ilocos Sur.