When King Writes

People traveling to the Philippines for the first time don’t always include Sagada in their itinerary. That’s because it’s a hidden gem, a place known mostly to locals, and a part of me wishes that it would always be.

With its lush mountains, dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling rice terraces, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. 

But as much as I want Sagada’s laid-back pace and small-town charm to stay a hidden gem, these days it has developed enough infrastructure to comfortably welcome tourists. 

So if you’re considering exploring Sagada’s misty mountains, ancient burial sites, and its off-the-beaten-path appeal, you’ve come to the right place. I’m about to share with you what I think is one of the best places to stay in Sagada: Blue Mountain Cabins.

• Getting There
• Why I Recommend Blue Mountain Cabins
• The Accommodations
• The Surroundings
• Dining Experience
• The Service
• Tips for Future Guests
• Other Places to Stay in Sagada

Getting There

Manila to Sagada

It took us 12 hours to get from Manila to Sagada’s town proper. There was no traffic since we left at night, but be aware that the drive from Manila to Sagada can be dangerous.

You’ll drive through the Halsema Highway, which is known for its winding roads, steep inclines, and narrow sections. There are occasional rockfalls and landslides during the rainy season (July to October), too.

There’s a specific section of the Halsema Highway that locals call “Bituka ng Manok.” In English, chicken intestines. This part of the highway has extremely winding and narrow curves. The road twists and turns sharply, resembling the intestines of a chicken.

The highway is mostly uphill as you travel from Manila to Sagada. Parts of it are built along the edge of mountains, with steep drop-offs on one side. I recommend hiring a driver if you’re uncomfortable with mountain driving or heights.

Sagada Town Proper to Blue Mountain Cabins

Blue Mountain Cabins is located approximately 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) away from the Sagada town proper. It’s a 15 to 20-minute drive.

Blue Mountain Cabins is located slightly off the main road, up a hill. Here are the directions:

1. Starting from Sagada town proper, head north on the main road.
2. You’ll pass the Lemon Pie House on your right. Continue further north.
3. Look for a sign for Blue Mountain Cabins on the left side of the road.
4. Turn left onto a smaller road.
5. Follow this road uphill for a few minutes.
6. You’ll find Blue Mountain Cabins on your left.

Mobile data for the Globe network is strong in Sagada town proper. Feel free to use Google Maps or Waze.

Blue Mountain Cabins is outside town proper, so I recommend having your own transportation or arranging a ride with the lodge.

That said, Blue Mountain Cabins is not for people who want to stay in town. It’s best for guests who prioritize tranquility and seclusion. 

Why I Like Blue Mountain Cabins

Given its distance from Sagada’s town proper, Blue Mountain Cabins is best suited for travelers who:

• Prioritize Tranquility and Seclusion: Those seeking a peaceful escape away from the hustle and bustle of town will appreciate the quiet and natural surroundings of Blue Mountain Cabins.
• Enjoy Nature and Views: The lodge’s location atop a hill provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Guests who value stunning scenery (especially at sunrise!), fresh air, and being surrounded by nature will find Blue Mountain Cabins an ideal retreat.

• Have Their Own Transportation: The lodge is not easily accessible on foot. Having your own car or arranging transportation is key for a convenient stay.
• Are Pet-Friendly: The spacious grounds and pet-friendly policy make it a great option for guests like me who treat pets like family.

Blue Mountain Cabins might not be the best fit for:

• Travelers who want to be in the heart of the action: It’s less ideal for those who prefer to be within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Those without transportation: The distance from town can be challenging without your own vehicle.
• Working guests: Blue Mountain Cabins doesn’t have free WiFi. Mobile data is also weak.

The Accommodations

House-Type Accommodation

Blue Mountain Cabins has two charming houses on a hillside, each with five private rooms for booking. These houses are designed for shared living. I appreciate the homey atmosphere rather than a typical hotel vibe.

Each house includes:

• Cozy Rooms: The rooms feature comfortable beds and essentials for a pleasant stay.
• Shared Living Room: A communal space with wooden seating and fireplace, perfect for relaxing, socializing with fellow guests, or enjoying the scenic views.
• Communal Kitchen: A small counter and sink. Drinkable water is free and is replaced daily or upon request. You can’t prepare your meals inside, though.

Inside the Room

The rooms at Blue Mountain Cabins are cozy and simply furnished.  Inside, you’ll find a Queen/King-sized bed with warm bedding, perfect for chilly Sagada nights. You’ll also find a small vanity table and a cabinet.

Note: Only the Balangagan Room (where we stayed) has a King Bed. 

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Most of the rooms have a private balcony. The Balangagan Room and the room beside it have the best mountain view. Its elevated location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, which look especially romantic with the sea of clouds at sunrise.

You’ll also have a clean, private bathroom with a hot shower, sink, and toilet. There is no bidet. 

The rooms at Blue Mountain Cabins have no air conditioning, but you won’t need it. Nighttime temperatures drop to 10-15°C (50-59°F) during the coldest months (November to January). 

The Surroundings

Outdoor Amenities

Blue Mountain Cabins boasts a relatively large property compared to the typical inns and guesthouses in town.

Take time to enjoy the Cabin’s serene and secluded outdoor amenities:

• Pool
• Fire pit
• Picnic areas
• Walking trails (perfect for guests with pets, like me!)
• Cafe with a view

Parking

Blue Mountain Cabins has free parking. It’s located right in front of the property, and there’s enough space to accommodate all guests.

However, you’ll have to walk uphill to your accommodation. The staff will approach you and offer to carry your bags.

Nearby Activities

Blue Mountain Cabins is outside town proper, but that’s okay. Most of Sagada’s natural attractions are outside town too, and a few are near the Cabins.

For one, the Blue Soil Hills is your backyard neighbor. This unique natural attraction is known for its unusual, grayish-blue soil. The Hills offer a somewhat surreal landscape, attracting hikers and photographers seeking a different kind of Sagada experience.

The distance between the Cabins and the Blue Soil Hills is approximately 1-1.5 kilometers. Depending on your pace, you can reach Blue Soil with a 30-minute to 1-hour hike from the lodge. You can easily access it without needing a separate tour or transportation (and for free, too).

TIP: Ask the staff for directions. They’ll give you detailed instructions on how to get to Blue Soil Hills.

Blue Mountain Cabins is conveniently located near the Sumaguing Cave entrance as well. By car, it takes about 5-10 minutes. Guests staying in town need to meet their tour guide at the tour office, and then pay additional for transportation to the cave entrance. But guests staying at the Cabins can just head straight to the cave.

Dining Experience

Blue Mountain Cabins has a spacious cafe with a view. You can sit outside and admire the mountains over a cup of coffee, or stay comfortably indoors and watch Netflix. The cafe has a lounge with a flat-screen TV and comfy sofas.

The Cafe is open from 6 AM to 9 PM. It’s a convenient place to eat home-cooked Filipino food, especially on days when you have nothing planned. The staff will accommodate your requests as much as they can.

The Service

I have nothing bad to say about the staff at Blue Mountain Cabins. They are always polite and go out of their way to help, even when you don’t ask for it. 

During my stay, the staff is always around to help bags, serve food cravings that aren’t on the menu, and offer travel tips that only locals would know. You can put everything on your tab and pay upon check-out.

Non-Filipino speakers will be glad to know that the staff at Blue Mountain Cabins speak English well.

Tips for Future Guests

A few more notes I want to share with you:

• Book months ahead of your visit! Blue Mountain Cabins is often fully booked. Book via Instagram or Facebook.
• Check-in is 2 PM and check-out is 12 PM.
• Don’t bring too much stuff. The walk to your accommodation is uphill.
• Bring a refillable water bottle. Water is free at the Cabins.
• Pack earplugs if you’re sensitive to noise. Some nights the Cabin’s resident dogs are relentless.

Other Places to Stay in Sagada

There are no 5-star hotels in Sagada. Blue Mountain Cabins has one of the most modern accommodations.

Here are a few I’d recommend based on my recent stay:

• The Shire of Sagada – A hobbit-inspired boutique inn. The rooms are designed to resemble hobbit holes from “The Lord of the Rings,” with round doors, stone walls, and cozy interiors. However, pets aren’t allowed.
• Misty Lodge & Cafe – A popular popular accommodation and restaurant that offers a unique blend of cozy ambiance, delicious food, and scenic views. It has free WiFi and spacious parking.
• RedDoorz – They have partnered with Sagada Sunrise View Homestay to offer standardized budget accommodations under the RedDoorz brand. Expect basic amenities like free WiFi, clean linens, and toiletries in your room. The property is located near the town entrance. It’s one of the first places you’ll see upon entering Sagada.

Final Thoughts

The grounds of Blue Mountain Cabins are beautiful. I had an amazing time disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immersing in Sagada’s natural beauty.  If you value tranquility, stunning views, and a homey atmosphere, this is the perfect retreat for you.

Take a walk around the property, soak up nature, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Relax with a good book on the balcony or by the fire pit. It’s a fine time to be alive when you’re here.

Check out my complete guide to Sagada for the best things to see, do, and eat in this enchanting mountain town.