Inns

SAGADA's ROCK INN AND CAFE: A New Attraction
Joel T. Fagsao

Sagada, Mountain Province. If you don't have the heart for spelunking or an eco-walk, try Sagada's Rock Inn and Cafe. The wood sign beckons the curios as to why it's called a rock inn. Could it be an accommodation on a limestone cave? Coming down on a private road stretching at two hundred meters below the main road, you're in for a big surprise. The place manages to hold on to its rustic charm. The place is Sagada country at its best. The theme consultant and designer, anthropologist David Paras made sure every part of the structure blended perfectly with the surroundings. Rono (sticks), pine wood, even the sawali and capiz shell lamps were tastefully presented, incorporated and created something new out of the old. The four hectare property has an added attraction. The inn sits right smack in the middle of an orange orchard. Visitors can pick oranges and have them weighed and make payment.

Our group was warmly welcomed by the owner's son, Bang Omengan. Bang's mother Fely Capuyan-Omengan, was there too. She of the Capuyan clan are enterprising pioneers of Sagada. Bang, his eyes brimming with enthusiasm, led us around the property. The pine wood flooring in the rooms provides added warmth on cold days. Bang explained that backpackers who usually brought in their sleeping gear can stay for P150.00 (US $2.67) a night. Double deck pinewood beds reminds one of childhood days, sharing a room with siblings. The rooms are large enough to accommodate from six to eight people, perfect for barkada (peer group) nights at P250.00 per head. (US$4.46). There are two private rooms with its own T&B that sets you back at P1,500.00 (US $26.78) a night. Rock Inn he enthused can easily accommodate one hundred twenty people and if there are more, tents are available for rent and you can reminisce your Boy and Girl Scout days.

Other amenities include a gazebo incorporating a dap-ay or gathering place. Groups can hold informal meetings, come for a bonfire especially on chilly nights. On the deck of the main building, you can see below limestone rock formations, now this provides the answer to the name, which, Bang explained will be turned into an amphitheater. Concerts, garden weddings and other gigs can then be had. The last part of our tour was the restaurant which can double as a function hall. A large picture window was cut into the restaurant providing a view of the orchard. Bang told us that everything inside the cafe are for sale. Antiques and other Igorot artifacts are prominently displayed at the entrance and one can marvel at the tastefully done interiors.

Reservations: Call Mobile No. +0920 909 5899 ask for Bang
Address: Batalao, Sagada, Mountain Province