AsiaFoodGuideHotelsPhilippinesTravel

Your Guide To Traveling To Tanay (Updated 2021)

Give in to the beauty of nature in Tanay, Rizal, home to a diverse natural landscape that’s paradise to anyone looking for an outdoor sojourn. This is adventure central with a remarkable collection of towering waterfalls, rivers, caves, and peaks that are part of the famed Sierra Madre Mountain Range. And travelers who aren’t keen on outdoor recreation will find that the cool climes and stunning natural vistas are perfect for a relaxing staycation. Here, we’ve put together a Tanay travel guide to point you to the best it has to offer.

 

How To Get There

By private car: Follow the Marikina-Infanta Highway to Tanay. (Waze is your friend!)

By public transportation: Ride a Tanay-bound van, bus, or jeepney from Shaw Boulevard (Mandaluyong), Sta. Lucia (Cainta), or Ynares Center or Shopwise (Antipolo).

It’s easiest to navigate Tanay with a private vehicle, especially for tourists planning to visit multiple tourist spots in the area. Near the public market of Tanay, there are vans, jeepneys, and tricycles for rent that can take tourists to their destination.

 

Where To Stay In Tanay

In the evening, Tanay settles. Calm, quiet, and pleasantly frigid, it’s a great place to relax and unwind from a tough hike or a busy work week. If you’re up for an overnight trip, here are our picks of the best places to stay in Tanay.

Martessem Mountain Resort

Martessem Mountain Resort
via Martessem Resort Facebook page

Perched on a hilltop location, Martessem Mountain Resort commands a sweeping view of the Sierra Madre Mountains. In the morning, wake up to the famous sea of clouds from the comfort of a private room. The resort also features a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and recreational opportunities like horseback riding.

Martessem Mountain Resort
Address: KM58, Marikina-Infanta Highway, Tanay
Website: Facebook

 

Paninap Lodge

Paninap Lodge
via Paninap Farms Facebook page

Fall in love with the farm life in Paninap Farms, a family-owned farm and lodge nestled on the banks of the Sampaloc River. It’s perfect for a tranquil retreat with a secluded location, delicious farm-to-table dishes, and even a creek for swimming. Four spacious rooms at the Paninap Lodge offer cozy accommodations, while a campsite is available for travelers who want to sleep under the stars.

Paninap Lodge
Address: Makaira-Daraitan Road, Tanay
Contact: 0915-787-7428
Website: https://paninapfarms.com or Facebook

 

Kamp Maysawa

Kamp Maysawa
via Kamp Maysawa Facebook page

Another secluded retreat in Tanay is Kamp Maysawa, a boho-style cabin in the woods that’s a serene spot for an off-the-grid vacation. Surrounded by nature, it’s a picturesque setting for family bonding. Kamp Maysawa features a whole cabin, a freshwater swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, hammocks, games, and more. Keep in mind that the cabin is only accessible via 4×4 vehicles, so be prepared for a 30-minute walk over a 1.5-kilometer distance.

Kamp Maysawa
Address: Sitio Maysawa, Brgy. Cuyambay, Tanay
Contact: 0918-923-6800
Website: Facebook

 

Bakasyunan Resort

Bakasyunan Resort
via Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center – Tanay Rizal Facebook page

For a fun-filled resort experience, head over to Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center Tanay. The 15-hectare forest resort features plenty of recreational opportunities, including a zipline, rappelling and wall climbing facilities, a hanging bridge, and a large swimming pool overlooking views of the Sierra Madre and Laguna de Bay. Horse riding, mini-golf, ATVs, and more are available.

Bakasyunan Resort
Address: 3 Marilaque Highway, Tanay
Contact: 8706-4509
Website: www.bakasyunanresorttanay.com or Facebook

 

Momarco Forest Cove Resort and Hotel

Momarco Forest Cove Resort and Hotel
via Momarco Forest Cove Resort and Hotel Facebook page

The three-star Momarco Forest Cove Resort and Hotel is another sprawling leisure center in Tanay. With hotel rooms, casitas, and a spacious lodge, it offers a range of accommodation options for every kind of traveler. Take a dip at the large swimming pool and man-made lagoon, then explore the dining options at the Lanai Restaurant or Bathala Café, Bar, and KTV. Other features include a spa, a mini-zoo, and a tennis court.

Momarco Forest Cove Resort and Hotel
Address: Sitio Bathala, Brgy. Plaza Aldea, Tanay
Contact: 0918-942-9873, 0927-822-9865
Website: www.momarcoforestcoveresortandhotel.com or Facebook

 

 

Top Things To Do In Tanay

Climb Mountains

via Nagpatong Rock Formation Facebook page

Tanay is home to some pretty spectacular mountain peaks, both for beginners and experienced hikers. Most of the adventure-seekers visiting the area are eager to cross a mountain or two off their bucket list, whether it’s the craggy Nagpatong Rocks at the foot of Mt. Masungki or the ultra-scenic Mt. Batolusong. Mt. Daraitan is also a popular choice with its spectacular panorama of the Sierra Madre. Enjoy swimming? The Mt. Maynoba and Mt. Cayabu loop takes tourists through eight waterfalls, making for one of the most refreshing hikes you’ll ever have.

If you want to experience mountain views without the effort of a climb, Treasure Mountain is a good pick. Visitors can drive straight to the campsite, which overlooks a sea of clouds in the morning.

 

River Trekking

via Celia Nachura

One of the highlights of hiking Mt. Daraitan is the variety of sights you’ll see along the trails, including the long expanse of the Daraitan River. The river can be glimpsed from the summit and it’s just as pretty up close. After the Daraitan climb, a lot of mountaineers hang out by the Tinipak River to rest, swim, or even camp by the stunning body of water dotted with large limestone boulders. (Hint: if you’re not up for hiking up the mountain, local guides can take you straight to the rivers instead.)

 

Chase A Waterfall Or Two

via Elmer B. Domingo on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

On scorching summer days, a dip in the chilly natural pools of a waterfall is absolutely heavenly. There aren’t very many cascades easily accessible from Manila, but Tanay’s Daranak Falls is one. Daranak’s large swimming area makes it easy to find a spot even when the crowds are out, but if you want a quieter option, Batlag Falls may be more your scene.

Other great Tanay tourist spots include Calinawan Cave, Sangab Cave, and camping spots like 3 Springs Mountain Resort. Tourists who have a little more time may also visit nearby attractions such as Masungi Georeserve in Baras or Hinulugang Taktak and Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo.

If you’re not too keen on active pursuits, why not explore the foodie gems sprinkled throughout Tanay?

 

 

Where To Eat In Tanay

Lutong Pugon

via Lutong Pugon Facebook page

Found next to the home and studio of artist Jun Tiongco, the little-known Lutong Pugon restaurant is a beautiful foodie and art haven in the heart of Tanay. Eye-catching bamboo architecture and lush gardens make it an enchanting place for a meal—and the wood-fired gourmet pizzas are to die for.

Lutong Pugon
Address: Masalat Road, Sitio Masanting, Tanay
Website: Facebook
Service Hours: Daily, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

 

Paseo Rizal Mayagay

via Paseo Rizal Facebook page

Laidback travelers will find it easy to fall in love with Paseo Rizal’s irresistible combination of art, food, and music. The cozy restaurant is a popular spot among locals and visitors, particularly for delicious Filipino favorites. Local musical acts are often invited to perform at the venue on weekends and holidays, while an art gallery sits on the ground floor.

Paseo Rizal Mayagay
Address: Marikina-Infanta Mayagay, Tanay
Website: www.paseorizal.ph or Facebook

 

Ricardo’s Vista Del Cielo

via Ricardo’s Vista del Cielo Facebook page

Ricardo’s Vista Del Cielo quickly gained a following among Tanay visitors hankering for Spanish-inspired dishes and Filipino favorites. Guests can dine in the home-like indoor dining space or opt for an alfresco meal on the deck for spectacular views. Plus, it’s open at 5:00 a.m. every day! If you want a yummy breakfast spot where you can marvel at the sunrise and Tanay’s beautiful sea of clouds, this is your place.

Ricardo’s Vista Del Cielo
Address: Marikina-Infanta Highway, Tanay
Website: Facebook
Service Hours: Daily, 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

 

La Franco’s Veranda

via La Franco’s Veranda Facebook page

Another open-air establishment that commands a beautiful view of the mountains is La Franco’s Veranda. The airy restaurant is open early, too, giving motorists and tourists a great place to enjoy the sea of clouds during sunrise. And the best-selling Bulalo Sinigang is perfect for the cool climes of Tanay! If you’re not in the mood for soup, La Franco’s Veranda also serves affordable “silog” meals.

La Franco’s Veranda
Address: Marikina-Infanta Highway, Tanay
Website: Facebook
Service Hours: Daily, 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

 

Café Katerina

via Cafe Katerina Facebook page

The budget-friendly Café Katerina has long been one of the most popular dining establishments in Tanay. Located on a hilltop location, it enjoys a stunning view of the mountains and Laguna de Bay. Plenty of tourists passing by stop this casual eatery for a hearty “silog” meal and a cup of hot or iced coffee.

Café Katerina
Address: Marilaque Highway, Tanay
Website: Facebook
Service Hours: Daily, 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

 

 

Tanay Travel Tips

New normal travel regulations apply in Tanay, so make sure you pack the essentials, such as face masks and face shields. Most establishments are open at a limited capacity, but social distancing is still encouraged among tourists. Additionally, most establishments only allow visitors who are 18 to 65 years of age. Tourism attractions are closed until May 14, 2021. Visit Tanay Tourism for further updates.

But it’s never too early to start planning your next getaway, right? Visit KKday for travel inspo and great deals, like day trips to Antipolo and other tours in and beyond NCR Plus.

 

 

*Featured photo via Kamp Maysawa Facebook page and Elmer B. Domingo on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Tags: