Fresh from binge-watching “The Haunting of Bly Manor” a week prior, it was understandable why I initially likened the feel of The Manor Hotel to the haunted series’ mansion. Take out the strange ghostly apparitions, and you would see a charming property laden with fancy landscaping and fascinating architectural patterns.
Where to stay in Baguio | The Manor at Camp John Hay
I had been wanting to experience staying at this hotel for the longest time. Haunted or not, beam me up. Good thing, though, the Manor Hotel was both free of bizarre occurrences and full of pleasant vibes. From its cabin feels to the spacious outdoor lawn dotted with flower boxes (and circles) and towering trees, it was like being transported back to the Baguio of old; of expansive nature with fewer crowds and the City of Pines’ trademark cool weather.
Although I got to stay here only for a night to kick off the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines and PHILTOA’s Cordillera trip, I was still grateful that I got to stretch my feet and lay down my back for a restful night's sleep at The Manor at Camp John Hay.
An Alpine Haven Amidst the Pines
This trip was also my first since the hard lockdown of March 2020—thus making the experience a double dose of good karma. Combining the original elements of the former American military recreational complex that stood here during colonial times with modern aesthetics and classic highland architecture, The Manor at Camp John Hay spread over 246 forested hectares to cater to guests' yearning for isolation from the hustle and bristle of the City of Pines.
Visitors could choose from Superior and Deluxe rooms to one- and two-bedroom suites, with several coming with a private balcony. It had its own signature restaurant, a spa, fitness gym, and wellness studio, as well as a dedicated spot for lighting up a bonfire under the starry night sky.
“Bitin” was an understatement as we had to leave early the next day, thus missing out on the hotel’s breakfast offering. As our van proceeded to roll into our next destination in Atok, Benguet, I promised myself to stay for a much longer time next time at The Manor at Camp John Hay.
Hotel Fact Box
Room & Suite Categories
Superior Room (Garden / Forest View) Thirty-four to thirty-eight square meters | Maximum of three guests. Atmospheric standard configurations featuring rich wood beam accents, timber finishes, ceiling fans, signature warm lighting layouts, work desks, and large panel windows opening onto forest clearings or central courtyard gardens. Furnished with one king bed or two double configurations.Deluxe Room (Garden / Forest View) Thirty-eight to forty-two square meters | Maximum of three guests. Expansive mid-tier sanctuaries emphasizing immediate courtyard garden frontage or deep pine views. Outfitted with comfortable integrated sitting couches, minibars, and premium bedding assemblies.
One-Bedroom Suite (Garden / Forest View) Seventy-six to eighty square meters | Maximum of four guests. Modeled with a spacious luxury condo apartment footprint. Incorporates a separate standalone living room salon, a dark wood dining table set, custom master artwork displays, an executive counter pantry with an electric kettle and mini-refrigerator, and a private timber porch balcony looking straight over the majestic pine canopies.
Two-Bedroom Suite (Garden / Forest View) 132 square meters | Maximum of six guests. Grand mountain penthouse suites presenting double master bedroom configurations, interconnected family lounges, multiple luxury bathrooms with walk-in hot rain-showers, and ultimate pine forest insulation.
Dining Options & Gastronomy
Le Chef (by Chef Billy King) The hotel's iconic, flagship culinary destination. Features a traditional wood-paneled open layout looking directly across the manicured estate lawns. Specializes in exceptional world-class international cuisine, French fusions, and heirloom Cordillera specialties crafted alongside fresh, locally sourced Benguet farm vegetables.The Piano Bar A sophisticated, cozy fireside lounge space overlooking the gardens. Serves gourmet light fare, single-malt whiskeys, premium spirits, and signature cocktails accompanied by evening piano melodies and acoustic sessions.
