Where to Stay in Tagaytay, the Philippines, for a Local Experience

Get some first-hand experience in winemaking by picking grapes at the Twin Lakes Hotel – a 20-minute drive west of central Tagaytay. It has a distinctly European feel, and due to its location, it offers a stunning view of the area’s landscape. Sprawling regally, the 126 rooms here are spacious and elegant and have large balconies. The hotel also has an outdoor heated infinity pool and a cafe with a viewing deck.

Anya Resort Tagaytay houses 78 spacious, contemporary suites and sits within a meticulously sculpted landscape. It has a central pool and an inviting spa, or you can defer to your Anya Experience Assistant to help you discover insider info on the area or plan any special outings. The resort is home to three restaurants, or you can take a brief taxi ride into central Tagaytay, where more dining options await you.

Create a home from home in an apartment-style accommodation at the Serviced Residences at Kasa Luntian. Here, you’ll find spacious rooms with dining areas and fully equipped kitchens where you can test out some local recipes. Those visiting with kids will also be grateful for the five salt-filtered, cascading swimming pools.

Founded by one of the great-grandchildren of Emilio Aguinaldo, a Filipino revolutionary, the Carmelence View has links to the history of the Philippines, and the friendly staff add a welcoming quality. The hotel sits inside a fairytale-like villa on a hillside and features seven rooms, suites and cabanas, all with simple, attractive furniture, ample space, lots of natural light and views of Taal Lake and the surrounding countryside.

You’ll get a flavour of everyday life in Tagaytay during your stay in one of these repurposed shipping containers, as they lie in an area close to churches, cafes, schools, colleges and even a seminary. The rooms at Containers by Eco Hotel Tagaytay feature windows, comfy beds and basic furniture, and the family rooms have bunk-style beds that can sleep as many as six guests – perfect for large groups. Space is tight, but you can stretch your legs at the hotel’s restaurant, rooftop deck and garden.

This resort has extensive sports facilities popular with Tagaytay locals, so you may find yourself in the middle of a local basketball or table tennis competition during your stay here. Within a whitewashed structure that takes its design cues from the Mediterranean, the room options range from dorms to suites, and all feature simple furniture, lots of space and balconies. The hotel is a short drive northeast of central Tagaytay.

Looking for a homely, suburban-feeling stay in Tagaytay? Consider Tagaytay Summer House. The contemporary private home features two inviting, comfortable bedrooms. You’ll also have access to a fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare meals, a dining room, a private outdoor seating area with a barbecue, and a garage.

Taal Vista Hotel sits on a 700m (2,300ft) ridge that commands views of Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. You’ll have plenty of chances to socialise with Manilans, who visit Tagaytay to escape Manila’s heat, as this hotel has several communal spaces, including the pool and outdoor dining area. A lodge-like central structure houses spacious rooms and suites that have subtle but classic furniture. It’s a short taxi ride into central Tagaytay.