Cool breeze with scents of pinecones and strawberries, enchanting views and exciting finds, these are just some of the magical charms that is Baguio.

El Cielito sits on one of Baguio’s scenic hilltops with breathtaking views that are just a glance away from your bedroom window. Strategically located on North Drive, a 5-minute walk takes you to the Convention Center or to downtown Session Road. Enjoy Baguio’s famous vacation spots like Burnham Park and Club John Hay, or pick up some silver and wooden souvenirs at the nearby public market which boasts of being the cleanest in the country.

El Cielito Inn is in a quiet area, set a little higher on one of the hills of Baguio. The three-story building housing the hotel is an assembly of pink cubes and rectangles, quite in disharmony with the surrounding area, but in terms of comfort and value for money it is the best establishment in town.

The hotel is well maintained, not surprising as its manager and the chef were formerly with the Hyatt Hotel that used to be in the area.

The reception area is pleasant and welcoming with comfortable sofas set in a décor blending wood, stone, red tile flooring and green plants. At the end of the room, a bay window looks out into a little patio filled with bushy bamboo.

The rooms are on the upper floors and have views either of the road or the flagstoned interior patio adorned with some plants. All the rooms are quite comfortable, with marble bathrooms. The modern, functional furniture is pleasing: the décor in shades of pink, peach and pale green is restful. The suites and deluxe rooms have a small veranda. The elegant apartments, ideal for families, have two bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom.

The restaurant on the ground floor is very bright due to the big bay windows that look out onto the street and the stained-glass ceiling. Its setting is luxurious, a blending of warm tones, from the inlay of the floor to the yellow-gold walls.

How to get there

By land (7-8 hours) 250 km away from Manila via Kennon Road. Victory Liner has a terminal in Pasay City along EDSA for hourly departures in the morning. By car, take North Expressway at Balintawak and get off at Dau exit. Pass by Tarlac, Urdaneta and Pozorrubio. Before reaching Rosario, take the junction to Baguio (Kennon Rd.)