Megan B.
Google
I started the year with a staycation at Montebello Villa Hotel, and overall, it was a very pleasant and memorable experience.
The hotel is conveniently located at the back of Gaisano Country Mall, which made errands and shopping easy before check-in. Check-in was smooth, and once inside the hotel grounds, the atmosphere immediately feels calm and charming, with well-maintained gardens and a distinct old Filipino-Spanish aesthetic. Despite being an older hotel, Montebello is clearly well-loved and still very active—during my stay, there were multiple events happening, including a debut and a birthday celebration.
The rooms are basic but comfortable, and the staff were accommodating throughout the stay. Dining options within the hotel are solid: Liu Dynasty offers an elevated Chinese dining experience, while La Terraza serves quality sugba dishes on Thursdays and Fridays.
One of the highlights of the hotel is the gardens. Walking around the grounds was peaceful and relaxing, and it genuinely felt like a getaway from the city. This is especially impressive given that the hotel is located right next to a busy mall and street, yet the noise is barely noticeable.
Breakfast on the second day had a wide variety of choices, including both Western and Filipino dishes. The buffet selection included bacon, eggs, waffles, pancakes, beef tapa, and even ratatouille, which is uncommon for hotel breakfast buffets. The breakfast area itself felt warm and cozy, making for a relaxed dining experience.
After breakfast, the grounds continued to be a highlight, particularly the pond and bridge area with lotus plants, as well as the bougainvilleas around La Terraza. These areas are great for walking, relaxing, and taking photos.
One minor downside was item availability when ordering food and drinks. A few items were unavailable during my stay, and when attempting to order lunch by the pool close to checkout time, some menu items had already run out. This made it difficult to dine at the hotel before the 12 PM checkout.
Overall, Montebello Villa Hotel is a great option for a relaxing staycation within the city. It’s especially suitable for guests who enjoy gardens, a quieter atmosphere, and convenient access to nearby amenities. I would happily stay here again.