The Hilltop Cabins of Farm Ridge by Desmond Farm in Nueva Ecija
Socially distance yourself from the hustle and bustle of Manila by taking a 3-hour drive to this part of Nueva Ecija where one can wake up to a sea of clouds and the humming of birds. Nestled on the slopes of the Sierra Madre mountains and overlooking the calm waters of Pantabangan lake are a set of cabins that gorgeously blends with the surrounding nature.
Constructed on a vast farm land rolling on the tips of successive hills, Farm Ridge by Desmond Farm’s hilltop cabins dishes breathtaking outdoor views and a country vibe stamped with mother nature's serenity. Part agricultural and farm tourism site, visitors can enjoy a much-needed Zen-and-chill experience while regaling at the spectacular scenery in between spreads of healthy farm-to-table meals.
Unboxing the “Break Free” Experience
Together with three other travel writer friends Anne, Karla, and Tina, we experienced the 3 days and 2 nights "Break Free" itinerary curated by Pico Sands Hotel. Taking advantage of the magnificent set of nature that surrounds the Hamilo Coast area in Batangas, we beach-bummed, sunset cruised, and fancy dined our way for a much-needed nature break.
Dotting over the hilltop property are six cabins of varying layouts but sharing the ambiance of a calm bucolic lifestyle, and a main farmhouse called Matahum. Each cottage was named from different words taken from Tagalog, Cebuano and Hiligaynon languages, such as Amihan, Hiraya, Bahaghari, Maharlika, Malipayon and Marahuyo.
Half of the cabins comes with small private pools while the rest comes with added fabulous views by being perched on grounds with elevated viewpoints.
The cabin’s interiors are lavished with mostly wooden materials, finished with floor to ceiling sliding glass doors, and covered with nipa thatched roofs. Other features include a private bath, a loft and a veranda that opens to the majestic views of the mountains and the lake.
Desmond Farms
The property is managed and owned by Desmond Farm and Partners Inc (DFPI). It is a corporation composed of farmers and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who pooled together an investment in developing an organic farm that produces high-quality cacao beans.
"Since the management saw the need for a guest house to accommodate our various stakeholders who want to visit the farm, few have been carefully constructed," said Desmond Farm's Corporate Secretary Kaiselle C. Atun. "After experiencing themselves, the beauty of the nature surrounding the farm, and recognizing the importance of promoting sound agricultural practices, DFPI started offering the cabins and opening its farm gates to the public,” Atun adds.
Farm to Table Produce
Guests of Farm Ridge by Desmond Farm can also enjoy the farm’s fresh produce that are available upon visitor’s request ranging from vegan and keto-friendly meals, to cacao-based sweets and pastries.
A small shop is also located on the ground floor of the Matahum farmhouse where you can buy fresh vegetables and fruits, pigeon peas, assorted peanuts, Choco nutri nibs, chocolate peanut spread, and different flavors of chocolate bars made from the cacao harvested in the farm.
Farm Ridge also offers farming activities to its guests particularly in learning how to plant and harvest cacao by taking them to the farm’s cacao plantation located a few distances away from the hilltop cabins.
Plans for the immediate future include the construction of a café where diners can relish the 360-degree view of the striking waving tips of the Sierra Madre and its adjacent rolling hills down to the calm waters of Pantabangan Lake.
Standard Cabin Rates
These are the standard baseline rates compiled directly from their digital platform Farm Ridge PH. Please keep in mind that seasonal updates, weekend packages, or promotional events can shift pricing scales. Make it a point to survey their Facebook page for active discounts or special package releases.
Accommodations & Pricing
What to Expect?
A memorable time, pleasant weather—like Baguio or Sagada feels—good food, friendly staff (most are former farmers trained by the management to learn hospitality housekeeping and kitchen skills) and a satisfying hot cup of hot tsokolate.
Our trip to Farm Ridge by Desmond Farms was made possible by NLEX Corporation who recently organized a mini Lakbay Norte trip to Nueva Ecija. Participated by travel writers from both the print and digital media, the journey to the province known as the “rice granary of the Philippines” aims to promote other budding destinations worth visiting.
Hotel Fact Box
Room & Cabin Categories
Matahum Farmhouse The property's flagship and largest accommodation hub, beautifully perched right above the main reception area. Features a sprawling multi-bedroom layout, expansive living setup, private kitchen pantry, private plunge pool, and a grand covered viewing deck delivering sweeping views of the Sierra Madre. Fits up to 13 people.Amihan & Hiraya Cabins Charming tiny house configurations equipped with classic cozy sleep attics, built precisely to blend rustic native style with structural functionality. Features a personal veranda framework revealing mountain and lakeside views.
Malipayon & Bahaghari Cabins Premium hexagonal loft-style eco-cottages featuring distinct timber wall partitions, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass panels, and private side plunge pools. Accommodates 4-6 guests comfortably.
Marahuyo Cabin An upscale, ultra-secluded premium eco-cabin designed for family groups or couples seeking an absolute off-grid, tranquil country experience, paired with a personal swimming pool.
Sierra Grande / Cortijos / Chalet Cabins Varying custom A-frame, triangular, and hexagonal design modules featuring open porches, warm wood interiors, and elevated ridge-front placements for maximum visibility.
Dining & Farm Fresh Produce
Farm-to-Table Restaurant & Upcoming 360° Ridge Café An al fresco country-style pavilion dining experience centered on organic, fresh-picked ingredients. Specializes in customized keto-friendly and vegan menus, traditional Bicolano-Ilonggo boodle fights for groups, artisanal pastries, and signature hot tsokolate or cacao tea brewed straight from the estate's plantations.Matahum Farm Shop An on-site cooperative shop selling seasonal organic fruits, crisp mushroom chips, dark chocolate bars, chocolate peanut spread, choco nutri nibs, pigeon peas, and native cacao granules tea.
