Strawberry Picking: La Trinidad Strawberry Farm

Have you ever had one of those cravings that just won’t let go? Well, that was me. Except this time, it wasn’t pizza or chocolate—it was strawberries. Fresh, handpicked strawberries. And not just any strawberries. No, I had my sights set on the famous Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, just outside Baguio.

So, with that craving nagging at me, I knew I had no choice but to go on a little adventure. Here’s how it went!

How It All Started

You know that feeling when you’ve heard about a place for so long, and then you finally get the chance to visit? That was me with the Strawberry Farm. I’d been hearing about it forever, and the thought of picking my own strawberries just sounded… fun. I’ve never been much of a farmer myself, but there’s something satisfying about the idea of harvesting your own food. Plus, I love strawberries. It was a win-win.

So there I was, one crisp Baguio morning, packing my bags and gearing up for what I hoped would be the berry-filled day of my dreams.

Why Baguio? The Perfect Place for Strawberries

Let me tell you why strawberries thrive in Baguio—it’s all about the climate. The cool mountain air and rich soil? Perfect conditions for these juicy red gems. It’s like nature decided Baguio should be strawberry central. Everywhere you look, you’ll see fields dotted with red. It’s kind of magical, honestly. And the strawberries themselves? They’re big, sweet, and bursting with flavor. None of that bland stuff you sometimes get in grocery stores. These are the real deal.

The Journey to La Trinidad Strawberry Farm

Now, let me tell you about getting to the farm. It’s only about a 30-minute ride from the city center, so it’s super easy to reach. I decided to hop on a jeepney to keep things local (and because it’s the most fun way to travel, let’s be real). We zoomed down Session Road, past the Baguio Center Mall, and just followed the road toward La Trinidad. At one point, I thought we missed a turn, but no—just keep going and you’ll see the sign welcoming you to strawberry country. It’s hard to miss!

And the best part? The scenery along the way is beautiful. You’ll pass green fields and hills, with the cool air breezing in through the windows. It’s a small detail, but it sets the tone for the adventure.

The Best Time to Visit

Here’s a little insider tip for you: the best time to go strawberry picking in Baguio is from November to May. But if you can, plan your trip in February. Not only is that the peak season for strawberries, but it’s also when Baguio hosts its Panagbenga Festival, a massive celebration of flowers. The whole city is in full bloom, and you can smell the sweet scent of flowers and berries in the air. It’s like walking through a living postcard.

I went during February, and it was a perfect blend of good weather, ripe strawberries, and festive vibes. What more could you ask for?

More Than Just Strawberries: A Treasure Trove of Local Treats

Okay, so here’s the thing: I thought I was just going to be picking strawberries, but the farm has way more going on than just that. When I got there, I was blown away by all the little stalls selling everything from fresh jams to handmade souvenirs. Of course, I couldn’t resist grabbing some ube jam from Good Shepherd—it’s a must if you’re in the area. I even picked up a few quirky strawberry-themed keychains and bags (yes, they’re as cute as they sound).

But the real surprise? Strawberry taho. If you’ve never had taho, it’s this sweet snack made with silken tofu, syrup, and in this case, fresh strawberries. I wasn’t sure I’d like it, but after one spoonful, I was hooked. It’s warm, sweet, and just so satisfying. Definitely try it if you go.

Strawberry Picking 101: Tips From the Field

Now, let’s talk about the main event—picking your own strawberries! Before you get too excited and rush into the fields like I did, let me share a few tips I learned along the way.

Footwear Matters

First, wear the right shoes. I made the rookie mistake of wearing my brand-new white sneakers. Big mistake. The fields can get a little muddy, especially if it’s rained recently. So leave the cute shoes at home and go for something sturdy and waterproof. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

Even though Baguio is cooler than most of the Philippines, the sun can still get intense, especially when you’re out in the open fields. I brought a hat and a small umbrella, which came in handy when the sun started beating down. Sunscreen is also a must if you want to avoid looking like a tomato by the end of the day.

Bring Your Own Basket

Here’s a pro tip from one of the locals I met: bring your own basket or container! It’s more eco-friendly, and it saves you from having to buy one at the farm. If you forget, no worries—the farm has baskets you can buy for a small fee. But showing up prepared is always a good look.

The Actual Picking

So there I was, in the middle of the field, basket in hand, feeling like a legit farmer. For about 450-500 pesos per kilogram, I got to pick my own strawberries, and let me tell you—it was worth every penny. The farmers there were super friendly and even gave me tips on how to find the ripest berries. (Spoiler: look for the deep red ones that are firm but not too hard.)

I spent the next hour wandering through the fields, filling my basket and eating a few along the way. There’s something about biting into a strawberry that you picked yourself. It’s sweeter, juicier, and somehow more satisfying.

Being Part of the Community

As I wrapped up my day, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the farmers who make this all possible. The Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s a living, breathing part of the community. Generations of farmers have tended these fields, and their pride shows in every strawberry. Visiting the farm isn’t just about picking berries; it’s about supporting the people who make it all possible.

Support Local, Always

Before I left, I stocked up on more strawberry jam than I care to admit. I also grabbed a few souvenirs to bring back home. Every purchase you make helps support the local economy and ensures that the farm keeps thriving for years to come. So, when you visit, don’t just pick strawberries—take a little bit of Baguio home with you. And just like that, my strawberry adventure came to an end. If you ever find yourself in Baguio, don’t skip the Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad. It’s more than just a tourist stop; it’s an experience that’ll leave you with a basket full of berries and a heart full of appreciation for the community that makes it all happen.