Bontoc Seaview Guesthouse — Hotel in Mabini

It was my friend who facilitated the booking for us, a group of six people who just wanted a break from the usual roles we play back home. I really had no expectations of Bontoc Seaview Guest House, given it was someone else who planned the Anilao weekend trip for me. ||But I was immediately drawn to it. I was wowed by the charm of the place initially -- stone stairs, well-curated trinkets and furniture scattered in the receiving area and dining hall, attic rooms, stuffed marine animals on each bed, to name a few. ||And then we met the Trono family headed by the patriarch Romy who would thoughtfully ask us if we needed something to make our stay more comfortable, the elusive Ann who was always in the kitchen whipping something extraordinary out of local produce, their children Dwayne the kuya who showed us our rooms, and Abby who called us for lunch (which she probably planned because she's a culinary arts graduate) and gave us a rundown of what we can do in the afternoon, since his husband, George, is a dive master. These people, plus their staff (I just remember kuya Jess!), are pure heart. Guests will really feel they're at home at Bontoc Seaview Guest House because the Trono family will take care of you as if you are one of their own.||Moreover, what made me promise to myself to come back to the guesthouse (within the same month, hopefully!) is the family's advocacies of marine conservation and in general, environmental sustainability. Complimentary water in rooms were bottled up in glass containers instead of plastic ones like in most hotels, the buffet-style dining encourages the guests to get only what they can finish and limit food waste, small pots of fresh oregano were made centerpieces on the dining tables to repel insects naturally, guests also have access to books and other references on related topics. ||I just resonate with the vibe and values of Bontoc Seaview Guest House and the people behind it. They do everything with intention and it's evident in every nook, cranny, corner, person you will find or meet at the guesthouse. ||I will...

|The meals are prepared with care, and seems to be intentionally balanced. Meals are beautifully arranged with fresh fruit, local vegetables, bread from the local bakery, and seasoned proteins are generous and satisfying. It’s the kind of cooking that brings comfort without ever feeling heavy. ||The surroundings signify the mom's deep cultural roots from Northern Luzon. Handwoven textiles, carved wood accents, and painted ceiling pattern reminds us of the culture and heart that shaped this place. Local craft is functional and lived in.|The father’s love for nature is just as present. The home reflects his commitment to conservation, with artwork, books about ecosystems, and playful animal figures that inspire you to fall in love with the sea. His values live in the way the place is regarded. Each day, a local diver, someone interested in being a Bantay Dagat, or marine advocate would drop by to share stories, updates on marine life, what local government plans to do regarding conservation/tourism or simply joining for a hot cup of coffee and conversation.||Diving activities are flexible and considerate. Guests can choose between shore entries, boat dives, or drive-out sites. The team adjusts based on what feels right for the day, creating an experience that’s both relaxed, responsive and really all about what your dive goals are for the day.||We ended the day facing the sea, sipping a bottle of soju we had asked for earlier, the light fading and we feel the shift into evening.The pace here is calm and steady. There is structure, but never pressure. Meals, rest, and adventure fall into a rhythm that feels natural and unhurried. Everything is done with care which makes the stay feel easy, grounding and has the feel of being at home.||Tips: Don't expect a hotel like experience. Expect homey and welcoming. Be ready to climb stairs as architecture followed Mabinis topography. Expect there may be karaoke :) and feel...

We stayed for three days at this wonderful home. Although there are lots of options, what makes this stand out is the warmth and service provided by the owners, who also live there. We found the previous reviews, all exceptional, were accurate. Standouts were the food, hospitality, relaxation, scenery, and dive/snorkeling trips. The home is well maintained, and adorned with many unique decorations. Lots of personal touches. Romy and his daughter Abby are people persons who go out of their way to make you feel welcome. Abby’s husband George is the divemaster and is an accomplished underwater photographer. At night we spent hours looking at his incredible shots of the local water life. Most of the numerous creatures, including sea turtles, can be seen just off the shore near the resort, or at local dive spots. We also enjoyed the complimentary rum and cokes and listening to Romy entertain us with his guitar and great voice. He even got us to join in some kareyoke. The food was delicious and plentiful. Well presented. Very clean throughout. We stayed in the roof deck rooms. Very comfortable, clean, plenty of hot water, and spacious. We have a small dog who was also welcomed. We went hiking up a nearby mountain. Good workout and spectacular views of the ocean. This is a great choice for those looking to simply chill out with a book while watching the ocean, or as a base for scuba/snorkeling trips. Although there is no beach at the house, one is available via a short boat ride. We look forward to returning to the Bontoc...