Sagada Stay | Kanip-Aw Pines Lodge: In Town with a Quiet Mountain View

The Kanip-aw Pines Lodge in Sagada
The Kanip-aw Pines Lodge in Sagada

When in Sagada, I usually try to stay at lodgings just at the outskirts of town. I stayed several times within town before and while I like the convenience, it can be a little noisy at times. That’s why I enjoy places like Rock Inn or Ybami because of the pleasant natural ambiance and closer to nature environment. My last visit to Sagada though found me staying in town again but I was glad to find Kanip-aw Pines Lodge this time. It’s one of the lodgings that has that secluded feel even just a short walk from the main south road.

Dining/common area at the second level
Dining/common area at the second level

Facing Mt Kanip-Aw

I really had no idea where exactly in town it was when I booked the room through Agoda. From the town center, my friends walked south of the main road until past Sagada Brew and Lemon Pie House, we finally found the signage leading to Kanip-aw Lodge. A small pathway to an inner road leading to a house by the edge of the cliff. A few children were playing with their pups on the vacant area leading to the reception. Mang Oscar was there to greet us and were already expecting our arrival. The lodging is tucked within a limestone karst facing Mt Kanipaw.

I immediately liked the place since it’s far enough not to hear passing vehicles from the main road and the view of the rich greens from Mt Kanipaw is relaxing. The lodging have several levels and a new wing is just about finished when we were there. The original rooms though were at the ground level along with the common living area. A kitchen is available for guest to use. There’s a water station where guest can refill, a coffee vendo machine (though Kuya Oscar can provide hot water) and Wifi (though a bit spotty at that time). There’a dining area on the lower floor which I really like since it opens up to the view of the trees and mountains. It was my favorite spot to hang-out in the morning with coffee in hand.

Our twin bed room with veranda
Our twin bed room with veranda

The Rooms

Since it was a weekday and the place wasn’t fully booked yet till the weekend, we had the luxury to choose our rooms. I was with my friend so we chose the one with twin bed rooms. The rooms have variety though. I chose the room with a veranda outside leading to the toilet since the bathroom there was bigger. The other twin room beside it has a bathroom which is quite narrow and lighting was dim. Our other friend’s room downstairs was also very nice. He had a big bed with private bathroom too. It was basic and clean but all rooms have nice views. Ours even has a clothesline at the veranda. It can get really chilly though as we had to go outside to take a pee. But not really a big complaint there as they have heater on their showers.

Take note though to the light sleepers staying near the living room. The room’s wooden walls aren’t that thick so outside noise can be heard especially if people speak loud. The lodging though reminds guest with signs to keep their quiet and respect other guest of the lodge. The new wing though is made of concrete so guest can have a bit more privacy.

Our friend's room at the lower floor
Our friend’s room at the lower floor

Summary

I stayed for three days and a couple of nights at Kanip-aw Pines Lodge. I can say that my stay was quite pleasant. Kuya Oscar and his family were really accommodating and kind. For the price, the rooms were a steal as they were all clean and comfortable to stay in. They don’t have a restaurant but they are near several famous eateries so it wasn’t a problem. My favorite thing about the place is its ambiance. Wonderful views and in the morning the natural sound of nature filling in the air. I would stay here again.

Reception area with a small store along with the water dispenser
Reception area with a small store along with the water dispenser

Kanip-aw Pines Lodge
Atey, Dao-angan,
Sagada Mountain Province
Contact: 0928.284.7507, 0926.609.2960

Check Rates and Book Online

Room at the lower floor and the common area
Room at the lower floor and the common area