The Inn at Cliffhouse: a secret destination in Tagaytay – so secret we drove past it three times. That’s the way owner Jennifer Dee likes it: discreetly tucked away behind an unassuming entrance just off the General Emilio Aguinaldo Highway.
Here Jennifer Dee and her family have created an attractive, appealing oasis, a step – and yet a world – away from the endless traffic jams, noise and pollution along the main road. From the tree-lined car park down to the small plaza nestled on the edge of the cliff, we walked along a winding path through the trees to a terrace perched high on the southern ridge above Lake Taal. The view is spectacular, overlooking lake and island, volcano and forest reserve – and a glorious new Ferris Wheel to the west that lights up at night like a fireworks display.
Opened in November 2009, Cliffhouse is a haven of calm, even when it is swarming with weekend visitors. Many of the original trees on the property have been retained and incorporated into the pretty landscaped gardens in the centre of the complex, which are lit up in the evenings by coloured lanterns hanging from the branches.
Cliffhouse was built in the style of America’s eastern seaboard, with white weatherboard shop fronts. The complex contains a choice of four restaurants: an Italian restaurant ‘Buon Giorno’; the Filipino ‘Café Platito’; a Café Breton crêperie, and ‘The Fire Lake Grill.‘ There are also a couple of ice-cream vendors and gift shops. A quick tip: for non-Filipinos, beware the sweetened spaghetti sauces at Buon Giorno.
And then, hidden away from the madding crowd like hobbit holes, down a secret stairway, are four elegant suites named after four North American lighthouses: Minet’s Ledge; Mantouk Point; Brant Point and West Queddy. Each has a private terrace, two with outdoor jacuzzis, and a view to send you into raptures. The rooms have been beautifully appointed: contemporary five star luxury blended with a strong flavour of coastal New England, each room decorated in different styles and colours.
Every suite has two premium queen beds, with feather pillows, feather mattresses and fine cotton linen that ensured us of a blissfully comfortable and luxurious night’s sleep. There is a shower big enough to hold a party, complimentary wireless internet access, a spacious sitting room and lots of sweet little treats.
We awoke to bird song and breakfast, cuddled into a cozy nook overlooking the garden, which was wonderfully peaceful at that time of day. Our personalized menu at breakfast was a lovely touch, although a three course 
breakfast was more than either of us could face so early in the day. I think we both would have preferred a simple plate of eggs-and-bacon or toast and honey, but the coffee was great. When visitors began to arrive, we simply retired to our private terrace to quietly soak in the view, and dabble out toes in the Jacuzzi.
Most of the reviews I read online were highly complimentary about the Cliffhouse Inn, and I definitely agree that this tiny slice of heaven has a view to die for, but I would also agree with those who suggest it is not a great place for children. It is, however, perfect for a romantic getaway. And if you are planning a wedding, ask about the property next door. It’s a really beautiful place for an al fresco ceremony and reception.
We enjoyed a delicious dinner on the terrace at the Fire Lake Grill, huge trees bejewelled in fiery red flowers, cool breezes whispering around us – a far cry from the humid mugginess we had left behind in Makati. When we returned to our room, the bed had been turned down, a small soft toy lay on the pillow, and a handwritten note from the manager wished us pleasant dreams and a happy anniversary. It was a weekend full of these thoughtful touches that made us feel both special and important, as we sipped our complementary champagne in the jacuzzi!
This boutique hotel is a charming, indulgent hideaway, a gentle escape from the endless hustle and bustle of Manila. It doesn’t come cheap, but for a special occasion, we thought it was worth every peso to come home feeling thoroughly rested and pampered. And of course, if you prefer a little more activity, it is a great base for exploring Tagaytay. For us, feeling quite simply in need of rest and relaxation after a hectic term, and a little romance for our anniversary, there was no call to move from the terrace. So we didn’t.
http://theinnatcliffhousetagaytay.com/
*Adapted from an article written for the May/June issue of ANZA News, and with thanks to the One & Only for his photos.