Gran Prix Boracay Hideaway

A few days before the big Philippine meet in Astoria Boracay, I still have not booked my hotel in spite knowing that it will be a peak weekend owing to the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo. Well meaning VT friends invited me to "room in" with them in their hotels (one was in Station 3 while the other is in the far end of Station 1). However, I put off my decision and tried my luck looking for a reasonably priced hotel near Astoria in the internet.

As it was, luck was on my side as I found Gran Prix Boracay Hideaway. It is located in Station 1, right next to Astoria with a standard room priced at PhP 2,500.00 (and that includes a plated breakfast and free wi-fi access in the room).

Aptly named "hideaway", it is about 50 meters from the beach yet hidden from the crowd by a pizza parlor and accessible through a side alley. The reception area, which doubles as a dining area, runs in contrast with the hotel building's structure. While the latter has a modern (minimalist) architecture, the reception has a native touch.

I was given a room in the 3rd floor with a view of Astoria and the hill behind it. My room was 12 sqm with a small balcony and furnished with a double bed, flat TV, mini ref and telephone. It has its own T/B with hot-cold water and, more importantly, a bidet.

The staff were courteous and friendly. I arrived mid-morning and my room was still occupied, but as soon as the occupant checked out, it was promptly cleaned. Hence, instead of waiting for 2pm (which is the standard check in time), I was able to move in 4 hours earlier at no extra charge.

Unique Quality: I would say, the unique quality of this hotel is its price vis-a-vis its location. While most hotels in Station 1 are pricey, this is really a bargain.

Directions: Right next to Astoria Boracay, back of Yellow Cab Pizza.

i've stayed in boracay hideaway twice and what i love about it is its location. it's a beachfront resort and is located in station 1 which means less crowds and establishments. aside from this, boracay hideaway is centrally located in station 1 meaning, 'd mall is still only a short walk away and resorts like Fridays and Cocomangas are still within walking distance. another great thing about boracay hideaway is its proximity to the boats' docking area without it being too near as to spoil the beaches. oh and one more thing, right in front of the resort is a "papag" where you can rest when the heat gets to be too much and at the same time still appreciate the view.
during the off peak season room rates are a bit less (P1,500-P2,000) and you might be able to even have some of your special requests granted. during the peak season rooms go for about P3,000 but try to haggle and get it down a little bit more. still considering the boracay hideaway's location, the price is still relatively cheaper than the other pricier hotels in station 1.

Unique Quality: rooms are big with either 2 double beds or a queen-sized bed plus(!) a couch or a double-deck bed. although the resort's policy is only to accomodate a maximum of 4 in a room we've managed to actually have as much as 6 in a room and still not feel too crowded. bathrooms are spacious and tiled with hot and cold showers.

Directions: dock at station 1 and the entrance to the place should be a little to your right.