The moment I realized that I missed Ifugao among the provinces in the Cordilleras, the first thing that I did was to check for accommodations. I only had two requirements in my mind: that it could fit us all in, and that there is a view of the terraces, whichever one it would be. I eventually stumbled upon Batad Countryside Inn. The room is good for eight people and according to the pictures in Airbnb, the inn is overlooking the Batad Rice Terraces. I did not hesitate and booked it immediately.

Back then, I had no idea that Batad is relatively secluded. The place is off the main thoroughfare, requiring a 30-minute drive through Saddle Point Access Road which, though paved, is outside online maps coverage. After the drive through the road, there was another 20 to 30 minutes of walk before reaching the place.

It was all worth it, though. Upon reaching the inn, we were warmly welcomed by our host and inn owner, Nisha. Apart from Nisha, we were also welcomed by the breathtaking view of the Batad Rice Terraces in all of its majesty.

So there we were, in Batad, within the heart of Ifugao, not only immersed geographically but historically and culturally as well. There, in the very place where we would stay for the next two days, we found ourselves nestled among the hills, overlooking mountains carved by ancestral hands to nurture golden grains. The sight seemed to remind us of our own mortality, humbling us before the timeless artistry of those who shaped the land and the wonders surrounding us.

We rested for a bit, cleaned up and changed our clothes. We had no plan for the rest of the day but to recharge our bodies after the long travel. Besides, what else would you want to do if you are overlooking the dubbed eighth wonder of the world? None, except to just chill and take pictures.

The cozy common area blending perfectly with the terraces at the background.

More photos from the upper floor.

Just being idle in the inn was not a bad idea at all. Even without any specific activity to do, it was never boring. While it could be true that we were probably just tired that we were not looking for anything to do, I believe it more that the wonders around us uplifted us so much that even the slow passage of time when idle was not able to get a grip on us.

Evening eventually came, and we had our fist dinner in Batad. We ordered sinigang, which was perfect for the cold climate in the mountains. It came with Tinawon Rice, an heirloom breed of rice so covetously protected that it is only planted on the rice terraces and never sold commercially.

After enjoying our first meal in Batad, we headed to our room to rest. The night was quiet, with only the sounds of insects and the faint breeze moving through outside. We spent some time talking and sharing stories, laughing about small things and reflecting on the day’s trip. Eventually, the day’s fatigue began to weigh on our eyes, and we decided to call it a night. We knew we needed a good rest because the next morning would no longer be idle.

The next day would mark the start of our real adventure in Batad.