Baker's Hill is one of the most popular tourist spots in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Known for its picturesque gardens, delicious baked goods, and family-friendly atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing stroll in the garden, savoring freshly baked treats, or enjoying the beautiful surroundings, Baker's Hill offers a unique experience in Puerto Princesa.
How to Reach Baker's Hill, Puerto
Reaching Baker's Hill is quite easy as it is located just a few kilometers away from the Puerto Princesa City Center. Here are some of the ways you can get there:
- By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps: The easiest way to get to Baker's Hill is by taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Grab. It’s a 10-15 minute drive from the city center, and the fare is generally affordable.
- By Tricycle: Tricycles are a common mode of transport in Puerto Princesa. You can hire a tricycle from your hotel or any nearby area to take you directly to Baker's Hill. Make sure to agree on a fare beforehand.
- By Private Vehicle: If you're renting a car or using a private vehicle, you can simply follow the main road leading to Baker's Hill. The roads are well-maintained, and there are road signs along the way that make it easy to navigate.
- By Public Transportation: While public transportation like jeepneys is available, it may not always go directly to Baker's Hill. You can take a jeepney heading towards Puerto’s town proper and then hop on a tricycle or taxi for the last stretch.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The weather in Puerto Princesa is tropical, with a warm and humid climate throughout the year. The dry season, which lasts from November to April, is the best time to visit Baker's Hill. During this period, the weather is sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities like strolling through the garden, shopping, or sampling the bakery's delicious treats.
While Baker's Hill is open year-round, it is advisable to visit during the dry season to avoid the heavy rains of the wet season (May to October). The rainy months can make outdoor activities less enjoyable, but the attraction remains beautiful even with occasional showers.
Why Baker's Hill is Famous
Baker's Hill is famous for several reasons, all of which combine to make it a beloved tourist destination in Puerto Princesa:
- Delicious Pastries: The bakery is the star attraction of Baker's Hill. Known for its freshly baked pandesal, hopia, brownies, and other Filipino treats, it has become a local favorite for sweet snacks. The bakery also offers cakes and bread, making it a go-to spot for food lovers.
- Beautiful Gardens: Baker's Hill isn’t just about pastries—it also boasts beautiful, well-kept gardens. The lush greenery, well-maintained plants, and scenic spots make it a perfect place for a leisurely walk or to simply enjoy the view. The park-like setting adds to the charm of the place.
- Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love Baker's Hill because it is very child-friendly. The wide open spaces, playful gardens, and scenic spots provide kids with plenty of room to explore, while the adults enjoy the bakery’s treats.
- Instagram-Worthy Scenery: Baker’s Hill is known for its photogenic spots, making it a popular place for visitors to snap photos. From cute statues to beautiful garden pathways, every corner offers a chance to take stunning pictures and capture memories.
Entry and Visit Details
There is no entry fee to visit Baker's Hill, making it an affordable attraction for travelers of all ages. It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore the gardens, enjoy the bakery, and even take in a few scenic views.
While there is no charge to enter, visitors may be asked to pay a small fee for parking or for special activities like guided tours, depending on availability. The area is free to explore, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the gardens, take pictures, and try the food at their leisure.
History and Architecture
Though Baker’s Hill is primarily known for its bakery and beautiful surroundings, it has an interesting backstory. Originally, it started as a small bakery that became so popular for its delicious baked goods that it expanded into a full-fledged tourist destination. The name “Baker's Hill” stems from its humble beginnings as a bakery owned by a local family.
The architecture of Baker's Hill is a mix of modern and rustic Filipino design, with open spaces and colorful elements that reflect the laid-back nature of Puerto Princesa. The park area is dotted with charming sculptures, some of which are playful and designed to appeal to children, adding to the park’s whimsical atmosphere.
While there is no grand historical significance attached to the site, its role in the local community—particularly through its bakery—has made it an important part of Puerto Princesa’s culinary scene. The lush surroundings and family-friendly vibe further enhance its appeal.
Things to Do at Baker's Hill
- Sample the Pastries: The main attraction at Baker's Hill is the bakery, so make sure to try their famous pastries. The pandesal and hopia are highly recommended, and you can also buy other local delicacies as souvenirs.
- Explore the Gardens: Spend time wandering through the picturesque gardens. Enjoy the lush greenery, the well-manicured plants, and various sculptures scattered throughout. The garden is a relaxing place to take a walk or have a quiet moment in nature.
- Take Photos with the Statues: Baker's Hill has several fun and quirky statues that make great photo opportunities. Don’t miss out on snapping pictures with the colorful sculptures that dot the park.
- Relax and Picnic: The park offers plenty of open spaces where you can sit and enjoy a picnic with family and friends. It’s an ideal place to relax after exploring the area and to enjoy the fresh air.
- Children’s Playground: For families with young children, Baker's Hill has a small playground where kids can have fun and burn off some energy while the adults enjoy a cup of coffee or a pastry.
Facts and Tips about Baker's Hill
- Tip: While visiting, don’t forget to buy some pastries to take home as souvenirs. The baked goods at Baker's Hill are beloved by locals, and you’ll want to bring some of their tasty treats back with you.
- Fact: Baker’s Hill is not just a bakery; it has transformed into a full-fledged attraction, with its combination of delicious food, beautiful scenery, and fun atmosphere.
- Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid the midday heat and large crowds. The gardens are particularly beautiful during these times, and the weather is more pleasant.
- Fact: The bakery is famous for its hopia, pandesal, and other Filipino pastries. It’s a great place to experience traditional Filipino baked goods in a peaceful setting.
- Tip: If you’re visiting with children, be sure to explore the playground, as it will keep them entertained while you enjoy the gardens and bakery.
