There’s a reason Tagaytay remains to be one of the country’s premier tourist spots for both locals and foreigners alike. Breath-taking from every angle, many establishments surrounding the lake have attempted to frame its million-dollar view from their windows in hopes of offering the quintessential Tagaytay experience to visitors. There is, indeed, no shortage of bed-and-breakfasts, hotels, and scenic restaurants along the stretch of the Aguinaldo highway, and while some have been staples on Tagaytay roadtrip itineraries, it’s surprising how more hidden gems remain to be discovered.
One such hidden gem is Domicillo Design Hotel, one of the many, unassuming stops along the road, yet the only one in which I’ve found a home away from home in Tagaytay. Its bare, concrete facade leads to a sophisticated yet homely hotel that boasts a full-frontal, staggeringly beautiful view of the Taal volcano and its surrounding lake. If you’re planning a quick roadtrip to Tagaytay, better make it here – where you’re guaranteed to have a restful getaway worth your time, money and effort.
View of the Taal from Domicillo’s rooftop restaurant
The view from Domicillo’s Deluxe Rooms
Location
Domicillo is a 10-15 minute ride from Olivares Plaza and easily in view from the highway, you’ll find it on your left right after passing a Petron gas station marking a junction along the road. You’ll also find Sky Ranch, and dozens of bulalo eateries a few meters from the hotel.
From outside Domicillo’s Superior Rooms
Domicillo’s Superior Room (where I stayed) which offered commanding views of the Taal, and an incredibly comfy bed!
Accommodation
I’ve noticed Domicillo to have a recurring sleek, industrial theme tastefully executed in their rooms, interior and building design, while at the same time still being able to convey a sense of comfort and coziness. From the bath area stylishly concealed by sliding bamboo panels, to the room’s exposed concrete walls, it is apparent that a true designer has worked their magic on each corner of the place. It only makes sense that Domicillo is in fact an endeavor of renowned local designers Budji Layug and Rene Alcala.
Art pieces hanging from my room’s wall
Stunning view of the Taal from my room, it doesn’t get any better than this!
The TV, study and the wardrobe are all neatly stowed at different corners at the room, its walls practically bare save for an art piece or two hanging from its walls, or a full-length mirror bordered by glimmering capiz shells adjacent to the door, all efforts made to ensure that nothing else distracts from the grandest work of art in the room – a stunning view of the Taal as seen from the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Domicillo’s Deluxe ‘Garden View’ Rooms.
Inside the Deluxe Rooms. A night’s stay here comes with complimentary breakfast, free minibar and wifi access.
Domicillo’s larger Premier ‘Lower Lake View’ Rooms come with a complimentary bottle of wine.
Sweet Deal!
All room accommodations come with a complimentary breakfast for two courtesy of Domicillo’s two restaurants, while a stay at their Superior and Premier rooms come with complimentary one-hour massage for two. With a deal as great as this, you definitely get your money’s worth!
Read more of my refreshing Tagaytay experience on the next page!
