Sagada Travel Diary: Mountains, Mornings, and Local Delights
Nestled in the mountains of the Cordillera region in Northern Luzon, Sagada is a peaceful, pine-covered town that feels like a breath of fresh air. As someone who loves to explore and wander, Sagada felt like a place that invites you to pause, breathe, and just take everything in. From the views to the food to the quiet moments, every part of this trip stayed with me.
Arriving in Sagada: Slower Days, Cooler Air
The ride to Sagada was long, winding, and unforgettable. I arrived after a bumpy van trip along the twisty Halsema Highway from Baguio. It’s a bit of a challenge, but once you’re greeted by cool mountain air, towering pine trees, and peaceful views, the long travel becomes worth it.
The first thing I noticed was the calm. No traffic noise, no giant signs—just birds chirping, wind blowing through trees, and locals going about their day. I stayed in a cozy guesthouse made of wood with a view that made even my morning coffee feel special.
Visiting St. Mary the Virgin Episcopal Church
Before diving into hikes and adventures, I stopped by St. Mary the Virgin Church, one of the oldest Episcopal churches in the country. Built in 1904, it’s a simple but beautiful stone church surrounded by pine trees and gardens.
Inside, it smelled of old wood and candles. I sat quietly for a few minutes as light came in through stained glass windows. It was peaceful. Just being there gave me time to reflect and feel thankful.
Outside, a small cemetery sits on a nearby hill, with white crosses gently leaning. Here, you really feel how the people of Sagada honor both life and death with quiet respect.
The Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley
After visiting the church, I followed a trail that led into Echo Valley. Not far in, I came to a clearing where I could see the hanging coffins up on the side of a cliff—some looked very old, others newer.
To get a closer look, I had to hike down into a ravine. The trail was steep and rocky in some places, so I took my time going down. When I finally stood near the base of the cliff, I looked up and saw the wooden coffins hanging from the rock wall. It felt unreal.
This old tradition by the Igorot people is only done for respected elders. They believe that being hung high brings the soul closer to the sky. Hearing stories from my guide made me appreciate how much history lives on in this quiet town.
Even the wind seemed to hush in this place. I found myself whispering without even realizing it. There’s a quiet respect you feel here that’s hard to describe.
Watching the Sea of Clouds at Marlboro Hills
One of the best things I did in Sagada was the early morning hike to Marlboro Hills. I left before sunrise, hiking with a flashlight and layers of warm clothes. The trail wasn’t too hard, just long enough to get your heart pumping.
When I reached the top, I was met with one of the most amazing views I’ve ever seen—a sea of clouds rolling gently over the valleys, glowing softly under the early morning sun. It felt like standing on top of the world.
Just a few steps from the viewpoint, I found a small store run by locals. They were serving hot mountain coffee and a few snacks. I bought a cup, and it instantly warmed my hands and soul. Holding that coffee while watching the clouds slowly drift below me was one of those small joys that made everything feel perfect.
I found a spot, sipped my drink slowly, and just watched in silence. It’s the kind of moment that reminds you how small we are, and how beautiful the world can be.
Hiking to the Blue Soil Hills
After Marlboro Hills, I continued on the trail to see the Blue Soil Hills. The hike took me through forest paths and open fields. After a while, I noticed the soil changing color—from brown to light blue.
The blue soil against the green trees was something I’d never seen before. It looked almost magical, like a scene from a fantasy movie. The walk was tiring, but every step felt worth it.
If you’re planning to go on a weekend, expect a bit of a crowd. The trail and viewpoint can get busy, especially during peak hours in the morning. If you want a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday or earlier in the morning.
A Taste of Sagada: Lemon Pie and Local Comfort
After all that walking, food was the next adventure. First, I stopped by The Lemon Pie House. Their lemon pie was everything people said it would be—sweet, a little sour, with a soft crust that melts in your mouth. I paired it with their local tea and took my time enjoying every bite.
Next was Sagada Yogurt House. I sat by the balcony, looking over the quiet street while enjoying their homemade yogurt with bananas and granola. It was simple, fresh, and just what I needed.
Then I found Sagada Brew, a little café that warmed me up with rich hot chocolate and a slice of moist, spiced cake. The place felt cozy and welcoming, and I ended up staying longer than planned, just enjoying the moment.
I also got to try etag, a local smoked pork, served with vegetables and rice. The flavor was deep and smoky, something truly unique to the region.
Final Thoughts: Sagada Will Stay With Me
Sagada has a calm that stays with you. It’s more than a travel destination—it’s a place that invites you to slow down, look around, and appreciate what’s in front of you.
From walking through history to hiking above clouds, from strange blue soil to warm homemade meals, Sagada reminded me that some of the best moments in life are quiet ones.
As I packed up and watched the morning mist roll over the hills one last time, I knew I’d carry a piece of Sagada with me long after I left.
Tips for Traveling to Sagada
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Plan ahead – You can take a bus or van from Baguio or Banaue. If you’re coming from Manila, Coda Lines offers direct buses to Sagada from Cubao. The trip usually takes around 11–12 hours, so it’s best to take the night schedule so you arrive early the next day.
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Pack light but warm – Mornings and evenings can get really chilly. Bring jackets, scarves, and comfortable clothes for hiking.
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Cash is king – Most establishments don’t accept cards, and ATMs are limited. It’s best to bring enough cash.
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Hire a local guide – Many attractions like Echo Valley and Marlboro Hills are best explored with a guide for safety and insight.
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Respect local culture – Sagada is rich in traditions. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites.
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Book accommodations early – Sagada can get fully booked during peak seasons and holidays.
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Disconnect to reconnect – Mobile signal and internet can be spotty. Embrace the slow life and unplug.
1 Comment
Worth the read. very informative 👏👏👏