Casa Cecilia Hotel is a serene, garden-style retreat located in Bantay, Ilocos Sur. Situated just a few kilometers outside the bustling center of Vigan, it offers a tranquil escape with lush landscapes and mountain views, making it a distinct alternative to the cramped heritage houses in the city proper.
Travel Guide and Tips
Best Time to Visit: Aim for the Longganisa Festival in January or the Viva Vigan Festival of Arts in May to see the region at its most vibrant.
Booking Tip: Rooms often include a local Ilocano breakfast. Check if your booking specifically mentions “local cuisine breakfast” to ensure you get to try their Vigan longganisa or sinanglao.
Spa Reservations: The hotel’s spa is highly rated but requires advance reservations. Book your slot at check-in, especially if visiting on a weekend.
Nearby Attractions
Bantay Bell Tower: Just a 10-15 minute drive away. Climb this historic watchtower for a panoramic view of the province.
Calle Crisologo: The famous UNESCO World Heritage cobblestone street is about 7-9 km away. It is best visited at night when the yellow streetlights create a magical atmosphere.
Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone: Located nearby in Santa, this spot offers ziplining and giant swings for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Dancing Fountains: Head to Plaza Salcedo in Vigan (approx. 14 mins away) for the 7:30 PM nightly light and water show.
Transportation Tips
Getting There: If flying, the nearest airport is Laoag International Airport (LAO), roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the hotel.
By Bus: Take a Partas or Dominion bus bound for Vigan. From the terminal, you can take a tricycle to the hotel, though the property is located along the National Highway, making it accessible for those with private vehicles.
Local Commute: Tricycles are the primary mode of transport. However, since the hotel is in a “suburban” area, it is much easier if you have a private car or rent a van for the day to hop between Bantay and Vigan.
Best For
Families: The property features multiple outdoor pools, including a dedicated children’s pool, and spacious family rooms.
Couples: The garden ambiance and mountain views offer a romantic, quiet setting away from city noise.
Pet Owners: Some booking platforms list the property as pet-friendly (though it’s wise to confirm during booking as policies can change).
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Quiet Ambiance: Away from the noise and traffic of Vigan City. | Distance: Requires a short commute (10-15 mins) to reach Vigan’s main tourist spots. |
| Facilities: Beautiful swimming pools and a full-service spa. | Limited Front Desk: Front desk hours are typically 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. |
| Parking: Plenty of free on-site parking compared to Vigan heritage hotels. | Accessibility: No lifts available; rooms are mostly ground-level or accessible via stairs. |
Pricing Observations
Standard Rates: Prices typically range from ₱3,500 to ₱4,500 per night for double rooms, depending on the season and inclusion of breakfast.
Group Stays: Family rooms and quadruple suites offer better value for money if you are traveling in a group of four or more.
Security Deposit: Be prepared to provide a refundable cash damage deposit (usually around ₱5,000) upon check-in.
Local Food and Tourism Tips
Must-Try Dishes: Don’t leave without trying Bagnet (crispy pork belly) and Poqui-Poqui (scrambled eggs with roasted eggplant).
Dining Near the Hotel: Visit Cafe Leona on Calle Crisologo for a mix of Italian and Ilocano fusion, or Kusina Felicitas for authentic traditional flavors like pipian.
Souvenir Shopping: While Calle Crisologo is famous for souvenirs, check out the local shops in Bantay for traditional Abel Iloco weaves, which are often slightly more affordable.
First Person Review
“Staying here felt like a breath of fresh air compared to the cramped feel of the city center. I loved waking up to the mountain views and the sound of the garden rather than tricycles honking outside my window. The staff really went out of their way—they even helped us when we had car trouble! The pools were pristine and perfect for cooling off after a hot day of walking through the heritage village. It’s the kind of place where you actually want to spend time at the hotel rather than just using it as a place to sleep.”
