Visiting the city of Tagaytay, a popular tourist destination known for its cool climate and stunning views offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life of nearby Manila. Situated on a ridge overlooking Taal Lake and the iconic Taal Volcano, the city’s scenic landscapes and welcoming atmosphere full of cafes, restaurants, and hotels make it a charming place to visit year-round.
It seems that every cafe, restaurant, and hotel has a story to tell and Taal Vista Hotel is no exception. We checked in on a sunny weekday to discover the hotel’s history, sample its cuisine, and enjoy the unobstructed view of Taal Volcano directly from the hotel grounds and our private balcony.
Hotel
Taal Vista Hotel, originally known as Taal Vista Lodge, was envisioned by Philippine Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon, who aimed to develop Tagaytay as a prime tourist destination. The hotel, inaugurated in 1939, quickly became a popular spot for both local and foreign visitors.
During World War II, the lodge served as a vacation site for American servicemen and was later used as officers’ quarters by the Japanese occupiers from 1942 to 1945.
In 1968, the Philippine government privatized Taal Vista Lodge. After several changes in ownership, Henry Sy, Sr., chairman of SMIC, acquired it in 1988. It was renamed Taal Vista Hotel and remains under the corporation’s ownership today.
The hotel’s lobby is spacious and exudes a classic vibe, with deep brown and beige tile flooring. We were greeted by a large flower vase on our way to the lavish lounge, which features a shiny grand black piano at its center.
Sustainability is taken seriously at the hotel, which proudly participates in green initiatives. The hotel recycles 50% of effluent water from guest rooms for landscape maintenance. Additionally, the Giving Garden Program composts most food waste to nourish the organic herb and vegetable garden.
Taal Vista Hotel is perched on a 700-meter-high ridge, offering the best view of the majestic Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. Located along Emilio Aguinaldo Highway in Kaybagal South, Tagaytay, it is conveniently situated next to Skyranch, one of Tagaytay’s most popular attractions.
Room
The hotel is steeped in history, yet our room was thoroughly clean and well-maintained. Our spacious Premier Queen room featured an earth-toned upholstered queen-sized bed with cloud-soft sheets. Most of the furniture was made of wood, including an armchair, a long table, a large cabinet, and a full-size mirror.
We have a room overlooking Taal Lake and Volcano—we loved opening the roll up blinds to enjoy the unobstructed view of nature. Our room at Taal Vista Hotel was very quiet, and we often kept the curtain open or stayed on our balcony to watch the sunset. It was the perfect moment for an afternoon snooze after exploring the hotel facilities.
The bathroom is spacious, featuring basic toiletries, a large mirror above the central countertop, and a toilet and shower area separated by a glass wall.
Food and drink
Taal Vista Hotel features two excellent restaurants and a bar. VERANDA, the hotel’s main restaurant, specializes in traditional Filipino dishes and offers both à la carte and buffet options. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous feast while appreciating cultural performances, including music and dancing.
Located off the hotel lobby, VERANDA is designed to welcome both check-in and non-guests. It provides a harmonious atmosphere for breakfast and lunch buffets, offering a wide selection of international and local cuisine.
The hotel’s more casual restaurant, TĀZA FRESH TABLE, is perfect for a business lunch or a quick afternoon bite. It offers a seasonal menu featuring the freshest local organic produce. At this Tagaytay favorite, enjoy comforting Mediterranean flavors and international dishes with hints of Moroccan, European, and American flair. Savor expertly cooked meats, garden-fresh vegetables, pizza, and a variety of ingredients proudly sourced from local partner farms.
Breakfast is included in room rates and is served buffet style in VERANDA. Any style of eggs and omelets can be ordered fresh and there’s also a fresh fruit, salad, and bread station.
ALTA Ridge Bar, an outdoor venue, is perfect for post-dinner drinks. The menu features mouthwatering grilled meats, fresh seafood, and a wide selection of handcrafted drinks, along with appetizers, salads, pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, and desserts. For those looking to unwind, there’s an extensive array of alcoholic drinks and cocktails. I find this place romantic, especially with Tagaytay’s cool weather, city lights, and live music.
To do
Taal Vista Hotel is located along Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, within walking distance of many top sights, including Skyranch, an amusement park with rides for kids and adults, multiple restaurants, and a gift shop. The hotel offers numerous facilities, including a kid’s corner, game room, fitness center, swimming pool, Kultura butik for unique Filipino souvenirs, and my favorite, Rain, the spa, where I had one of the best massages ever.
In a nutshell
Taal Vista Hotel is an eco-focused destination that seamlessly blends its storied history with contemporary design. Whether you’re a nature or a food lover, this hotel should top your list in Tagaytay.
Factbox
To get a discounted rate, click this link
Address: Kilometer 60 Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Kaybagal South, Tagaytay, 4120 Cavite
Phone: (+63) 917 809 1254
Website: https://www.taalvistahotel.com/
