Back to the Pines: Rediscovering Camp John Hay for a weekend
There are some places we never outgrow. They’re the ones we keep coming back to—places filled with happy memories, simple joys, and that special feeling of nostalgia. For me, that place is Baguio.
New yet familiar Baguio
Baguio has changed a lot over the years. There are new spots to visit, trendy restaurants and cafés, and more people than ever.
Yet, inside the iconic Camp John Hay, it still feels like the Baguio I grew up with. The scent of fresh pine, the breezy, cool air, the sight of clouds kissing the earth—it’s one of the few places that still captures the magic of my childhood. You don’t get that kind of feeling in most parts of Baguio anymore.
That’s why during a recent weekend stay at John Hay Hotels—what many of us still fondly remember as The Manor and The Forest Lodge—it felt like a trip down memory lane. But this time, with a refreshing twist.
Mindful changes
Now under the management of Landco Lifestyle Ventures, John Hay Hotels has held on to the charm that made it special.
Only this time, the hotel has embraced mindful changes that elevate the experience. It’s still the place we know and love, but even better. With the rebranding comes a renewed focus on sustainability, ensuring guest comfort, empowering staff, and supporting the local community.
There’s a stronger initiative to celebrate Cordilleran culture and promote local artisans, creating a space where guests and locals can truly thrive.
And throughout our stay, this commitment was felt in every moment.
Our mornings began with a sumptuous breakfast buffet, just the right start to awaken our taste buds and fuel us for the day ahead.
The garden area at the Garden Wing has also transformed into a market of sorts. In the spirit of manlakod or to sell, local businesses can be found here offering handmade trinkets, local delicacies, and even fresh produce.
Over at the Forest Wing, what was once a helipad now serves as a breathtaking viewing deck boasting a priceless 360-degree view of the majestic Cordilleran mountain range.
Unwinding in Baguio
We also got to try golf for the first time. Thanks to Baguio’s cold weather and the pine-lined view, the driving range was a great experience for beginners.
The spa was such a treat. We enjoyed a relaxing massage in the privacy of cozy treatment rooms, followed by a sauna session—just what the cold weather called for. There’s even a jacuzzi overlooking the garden which I’ll definitely be making the most of next time (note to self: don’t forget the swimwear!).
A nod to tradition
What made our stay even more special was the Baguio Mountain Man dinner. Now with its own dedicated space in the Garden Wing called Dap-ayan, a nod to the traditional Cordilleran gathering place, this immersive experience gave us a glimpse into local culture through rituals, storytelling, and food.
Each dish was prepared right in front of us, in an open-fire cooking method with ingredients sourced from nearby communities. The freshness was unmistakable, you could taste it in every bite.
It was our first time trying Cordilleran cuisine, and it’s the kind of experience everyone should have at least once. The flavors were bold, smoky, and beautifully layered. You could really feel the heart and heritage behind every dish. A crowd favorite was the Hinanglag, a slow-cooked pork belly so tender it melted in our mouths. Its rich, savory notes lingered long after the last bite.
We capped our nights in the comfort of our cozy rooms, enjoying quiet moments on the balcony with a book in hand while soaking in the crisp mountain air around us.
Truly, our weekend at John Hay Hotels was a gentle reminder of why Baguio will always have a special place in my heart—and why I’ll keep coming back, time and time again.
