One fine day at ‘The Manor’

We left the scorching heat and humidity of Manila Friday afternoon to head off to Baguio City.

As with many other local tourists, the chance to revel in the cooler climate of the famed Summer Capital of the Philippines is among the primary reasons why one would endure the long drive. Ours, however, extends beyond that, as the short weekend trip was meant to celebrate a teen’s milestone and a family member’s birthday.

As we left the metro about half past two, I was expecting to arrive late, ready to retire to bed and call it a night. But it must have been some time now since I’ve gone to Baguio because the drive took just about five hours, thanks to the long stretch of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx), which had cut our travel time to Baguio—that we managed to still grab dinner and coffee when we got there.

A view of the lush, well-manicured gardens at The Manor can soothe your frazzled nerves.

We finally settled at The Manor, located within Camp John Hay—and it proved to be a good call.

The Manor, which has been in operations for over two decades now, has not lost its luster at all, and has even upped the ante to provide what every vacationer needs for that relaxing weekend getaway.

While there are many sights and destinations to visit within Baguio City alone, it was highly tempting not to leave the comforts of The Manor, which is located within a former American military recreational camp.

Here’s why.

Relax, unwind, rejuvenate

At night, The Manor and the whole of Camp John Hay are a picture of tranquility—the stillness of the night was made even more relaxing with the scent of pine-covered mountains, soft lighting, and the cool breeze of Baguio, thanks to an elevation of 5,000 feet above sea level.

Come daytime, however, and you get to fully appreciate its splendor as The Manor offers a seamless blend between the rustic, old world charm of a bygone era with luxurious modern conveniences that will make you feel right at home.

Nestled within 246 ha of Baguio’s most beautiful tract of prime land, the four-storey structure offers stunning views of towering pine trees and Cordillera mountain range, perfect for an urbanite like me, seeking to unwind and brush off the stresses of city living.

Here is a sanctuary that would easily lull you to a more relaxed, comfortable pace that would allow you to rejuvenate and prepare for the hustle of the coming week.

Home away from home

From the outside, The Manor’s impressive architecture, as defined by its Baguio stone exterior finish, shingle roofing and tinted glass windows, does not intimidate at all, and instead, even beckons its guests to the warmth and comfort of its 169 well appointed rooms.

Cozy interiors and a friendly staff would usher guests in, where paneled walls and wooden furniture evoke a Filipino-colonial feel and emulate the atmosphere, the history and the fond memories of the real Baguio. Wooden shuttered doors meanwhile open to outdoor patios with a breathtaking view.

But it will still feel home as all rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as wi-fi internet access, cable TV, IDD/NDD phone system, a fully stocked refrigerator, hot/cold shower, electronic in-room safe, coffee and tea making machine and electrical outlet—proof that The Manor continues to set the bar for first-class hospitality.

Gustatory delights

No need to go too far to satisfy your discerning palate.

The Le Chef Restaurant, with renowned Billy King at the kitchen’s helm, offers a wide range of local and international dishes and fine wines that will surely satisfy your every craving.

If you’re feeling the nippy Baguio evening, use it as an excuse to unwind at the comfort of The Piano Bar, a cozy sitting lounge beside the fireplace at the lobby, where one can enjoy fine music while sipping their favorite cocktail to accompany light, savory hors d’ oeuvres.

At daytime, you may want to enjoy al fresco dining at The Greenhouse, with its stunning view of the garden. This is one of the newest additions to The Manor where one can savor delectable dishes while appreciating the Baguio breeze and majestic view of Cordillera’s mountain range.

Just a few steps away is the Le Chef Delicatessen, where the comforting aroma of freshly baked breads and pastries lace the air. These tasty treats are perfect to bring home as pasalubong for your family and friends.

‘Pamper me’ day

If you’re in dire need of some quality “me time”, you can give yourself that much needed pampering at The Manor Health spa, where you can simply get a massage, enjoy the jacuzzi or sauna, have a relaxing yoga session at the Wellness Studio—or better yet, all of the above.

All about leisure

If you’re unsure of what you can do at The Manor and within Camp John Hay, best to approach the hotel’s front desk who will lay out a host of fun and exciting activities to choose from.

Leisure packages may include hiking along an eco-trail, while the more adventurous can pitch a tent in a nearby campsite. There’s also a butterfly sanctuary for those who wish to hold colorful butterflies with their bare hands. And since Baguio is horseback riding country, Camp John Hay has created Shalan Ti Kabadjo, where one can experience a pony ride along a bridle path and riding circle.

Other facilities to enjoy at Camp John Hay include an 18-hole, par 69 golf course designed by the Golden Bear International of Jack Nicklaus; picnic grounds where picnic tables set under the towering pine trees may be arranged for a perfect gathering with family and friends; an indoor recreation hall where one can enjoy a game of billiards and video games; and a 2-kilometer eco-trail that leads to scenic picnic areas and a lush botanical preserve.

It’s really no wonder why many are driven to visit Baguio every chance they get—the unmistakable allure of The Manor at Camp John Hay alone is more than enough to keep you coming back for more.