Introduction
Baguio, known as the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” is more than just its famous parks and bustling markets. For me, Baguio has always been a refuge—a place where the cool air and pine-scented breeze provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Beyond the typical tourist spots, there are hidden gems that offer unparalleled tranquility. Whether you’re seeking solitude, a quiet spot to reflect, or just a place to unwind, these destinations promise serenity like no other.
1. Arca’s Yard
One of my favorite retreats in Baguio is Arca’s Yard, a charming café and museum located about 5 kilometers from the city center. As you step onto the balcony, you’re greeted by a breathtaking view of the Cordillera mountains, stretching across the horizon. The café’s serene setting is perfect for anyone looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
Inside, Arca’s Yard houses a cozy library with a collection of books ranging from local folklore to world literature. I often find myself lost in a book here, enjoying their signature hot chocolate while the cool mountain air flows in. The museum section, showcasing Igorot artifacts and local art, adds a cultural layer to the experience, making each visit both relaxing and enriching.
The café’s altitude at approximately 1,540 meters above sea level contributes to its cool temperature, often hovering around 18°C (64°F). This setting is ideal for anyone looking to spend a peaceful afternoon away from the city’s noise.
- Name: Arca’s Yard
- Address: Ambuklao Road, Tiptop, Ambuklao, Baguio, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 442 9706
- Official Website: Arca’s Yard
- Contact Email: info@arcasyard.com
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Social Media Links: Facebook, Instagram
- Services Offered: Café, Museum, Library
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
2. Mount Costa
Often referred to as Baguio’s “Secret Garden,” Mount Costa is a hidden treasure about 10 kilometers from the city center. This 6-hectare garden complex offers 24 themed gardens, each providing a unique experience. Whether you’re walking through the Meditation Garden with its calming fountains or the Bamboo Garden with its towering shoots, Mount Costa is a sanctuary for nature lovers.
The gardens are designed to provide peace and solitude. My personal favorite is the Reflection Pool, a 200-square-meter area where the water perfectly mirrors the sky and surrounding greenery. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet picnic or a moment of reflection.
Mount Costa’s meticulous landscaping and attention to detail make it one of the most peaceful places in Baguio. The garden’s elevation provides a cooler climate, enhancing the overall experience. For those looking to escape the usual tourist spots, Mount Costa offers a refreshing retreat into nature.
- Name: Mount Costa
- Address: Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 424 4067
- Official Website: Mount Costa
- Contact Email: info@mountcosta.com
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Social Media Links: Facebook, Instagram
- Services Offered: Themed Gardens, Guided Tours
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
3. Diplomat Hotel
Perched atop Dominican Hill at an elevation of 1,580 meters, the Diplomat Hotel offers a unique combination of history and solitude. While it is widely known for its haunted past, I found that visiting during the day offers a different kind of experience—one of introspection and peace.
The abandoned structure is now a heritage site and ecological park, offering panoramic views of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains. The hotel’s eerie ambiance adds a layer of mystery, but it’s also a place where history seems to whisper through the empty halls. Exploring the ruins, with only the sound of the wind and the occasional bird call, allows for a deep connection with the past.
The Diplomat Hotel is particularly stunning during sunrise or sunset, when the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink. Despite its reputation, the site offers a kind of peace that is both eerie and serene.
- Name: Diplomat Hotel
- Address: Dominican Hill, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 442 7014
- Official Website: Diplomat Hotel
- Contact Email: tourism@baguio.gov.ph
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Social Media Links: Facebook
- Services Offered: Heritage Site, Ecological Park
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
4. Camp John Hay’s Eco-Trail
If you love being surrounded by nature, the Eco-Trail at Camp John Hay is a must-visit. This trail, winding through a dense pine forest, offers a serene escape just 3 kilometers from the city center. The trail itself spans approximately 3 kilometers, making it ideal for a morning walk or a leisurely hike.
The scent of pine fills the air, and the forest comes alive with the sounds of nature—the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the distant hum of the wind. Walking along the trail, I often find myself pausing to take in the peaceful surroundings. The trail is well-maintained, with benches along the way where you can sit and soak in the quiet.
One of my favorite spots is a small clearing where the trees part, revealing a stunning view of the mountains. It’s a perfect place to sit down, close your eyes, and just breathe. The peace and quiet here are profound, making it a rejuvenating experience.
- Name: Camp John Hay Eco-Trail
- Address: Loakan Road, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 424 6914
- Official Website: Camp John Hay
- Contact Email: info@campjohnhay.com
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Social Media Links: Facebook
- Services Offered: Hiking Trails, Nature Walks
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
5. BenCab Museum’s Garden and Café
While the BenCab Museum is a well-known destination for art lovers, it’s the garden and café that offer a tranquil retreat. Located about 6 kilometers from the city center, the museum overlooks a lush 8-hectare valley. The garden is a masterpiece of landscape design, with koi ponds, rice terraces, and pockets of native flora.
I love spending time at the café, which is perched on the edge of the valley. With a hot cup of coffee in hand, I can lose myself in the view of the rolling hills. The garden’s sculptures and art installations create a harmonious blend of art and nature, making it a perfect place for relaxation.
The garden’s peaceful ambiance makes it easy to forget the outside world. The café offers a selection of local and international dishes, but I always opt for the fresh salad made from greens grown in their organic farm. It’s a simple meal, but in this setting, it feels like a feast.
- Name: BenCab Museum
- Address: Km. 6 Asin Road, Tuba, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 442 7165
- Official Website: BenCab Museum
- Contact Email: info@bencabmuseum.org
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily, closed on Mondays
- Social Media Links: Facebook, Instagram
- Services Offered: Art Exhibitions, Café, Gardens
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
6. St. Joseph’s Church Grounds
St. Joseph’s Church, located in the Pacdal area, is one of Baguio’s lesser-known sanctuaries. The church itself is a beautiful structure, surrounded by tall pine trees that give it a secluded and peaceful atmosphere. What I love most about this place is the garden area that surrounds the church.
The garden, though small, is a haven of tranquility. With its well-maintained pathways and benches, it’s a perfect spot for meditation or quiet reflection. The air is filled with the scent of pine, and the only sounds you hear are the soft
chirping of birds and the occasional rustle of leaves.
I often come here early in the morning, just as the sun is rising. The light filtering through the trees casts a golden glow on everything it touches. There’s a sense of peace that envelops you here, making it an ideal place to clear your mind and find some inner calm.
- Name: St. Joseph the Worker Parish
- Address: Pacdal Road, Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 442 2727
- Official Website: St. Joseph the Worker Parish
- Contact Email: info@baguiostjosephparish.com
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
- Social Media Links: N/A
- Services Offered: Religious Services, Meditation Gardens
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
7. Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village
Just a short drive from the city center, the Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village is a hidden gem that offers a unique and peaceful experience. The village is home to master woodcarvers from the Ifugao tribe, known for their intricate and beautiful woodwork. What makes this place special is not just the art, but the quiet, traditional atmosphere that surrounds it.
Walking through the village, you can see artisans at work, carving pieces that range from small figurines to large, intricate sculptures. The air here is filled with the sound of chisels tapping against wood, a rhythm that is both calming and mesmerizing. I spent hours watching the woodcarvers, admiring their skill and the beauty of their work.
The village is surrounded by nature, with the cool mountain air adding to the sense of peace. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, and you can lose yourself in the artistry and craftsmanship on display. If you’re looking to take home a piece of Baguio, the woodcarvings here make for a meaningful and unique souvenir.
- Name: Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village
- Address: Asin Road, Tuba, Benguet, Philippines
- Phone: +63 74 442 7014
- Official Website: Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village
- Contact Email: info@ifugao.gov.ph
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Social Media Links: N/A
- Services Offered: Woodcarving, Cultural Experiences
- Main Contact Person: N/A
- Certifications: N/A
FAQs
What is the best time to visit these hidden getaways in Baguio?
The best time to visit is during the early mornings or weekdays, especially between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, when these spots are less crowded. The cool morning air and the peaceful atmosphere make these hours ideal for a quiet retreat.
Are these destinations accessible by public transport?
Yes, most of these destinations can be reached by public transport or a short taxi ride from Baguio’s city center. For places like Mount Costa and the Ifugao Woodcarver’s Village, you may need to take a combination of public transport and a brief walk.
Is it necessary to make reservations at these places?
For cafes like Arca’s Yard and BenCab Museum’s Café, it’s advisable to call ahead, especially on weekends. However, most outdoor spots like Mount Costa and the Eco-Trail do not require reservations, allowing you to visit at your convenience.
Are these locations family-friendly?
Absolutely. All of these destinations are family-friendly and offer activities or environments that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Whether you’re traveling with children, elderly family members, or on your own, these spots cater to a wide range of needs.
What should I bring when visiting these spots?
It’s a good idea to bring water, a light snack, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, especially for places like the Eco-Trail and Mount Costa, where you’ll be doing some exploring.
How much time should I allocate for each destination?
Depending on your pace and interest, I’d recommend spending at least 2-3 hours at each destination. Some spots, like the BenCab Museum’s Garden, may warrant a longer visit, especially if you plan to have a meal at the café.
Conclusion
Baguio’s hidden getaways offer a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. These places have allowed me to find peace, reconnect with nature, and experience the quiet beauty of this mountain city. Whether you’re looking to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy a moment of solitude, these destinations are perfect for a tranquil retreat.
So, the next time you find yourself in Baguio, I encourage you to step off the beaten path. Discover these serene spots, and let the peace of Baguio’s hidden gems rejuvenate your spirit. Remember, as Lao Tzu wisely said, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
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