Banaue is a picturesque village built on steep slopes above a dark green river. Banaue is livelier and much touristier than Sagada. Not only because it is only 9 hours' bus journey away from Manila, but above all because of fantastic rice terraces surrounding the village.
Banaue rice terraces are known all over the world. They are entered on UNESCO World Heritage List and referred to as the eight wonder of the world by some. In any case, they are truly spectacular. They were built over 2000 years ago by Ifugao tribe members, who apparently weren't just some of the fiercest head-hunters in the world (you can learn more about them in the excellent museum in Bontoc), but also first-class engineers.
Banaue rice terraces are best seen from viewpoints along the road to Bontoc. There is no shortage of tricycle drivers in Banaue, who will offer you a ride to the viewpoints. However, if you are fit enough, you can easily walk. The first viewpoint is about 10 minutes steep ride by tricycle from Banaue, or you can get there on foot in about 45 minutes.
Banaue hotels
We slept in the best hotel in Banaue at the time, Greenview Lodge. The rooms at Greenview Lodge are clean, in wood finishing and parquet floor. The main attraction of Greenview Lodge however is spectacular view over Banaue, surrounding hills, the river and rice terraces, which is best enjoyed from a conference room on the first floor. The conference room was empty when we stayed at the hotel, so we could spend long hours sitting there, sipping a cold drink, writing and above all, enjoying the view.
Food in Banaue
Food in Banaue is similar than elsewhere in the Cordillera, which means that outstanding culinary delights should not be expected. We tried out a few restaurants in Banaue and a few hotel restaurants. The food was not impressive at either of them. Nevertheless, Sanafe Lodge & Restaurant is an excellent place to enjoy the view from their terrace. When it comes to food quality, we consoled ourselves with the fact that culinary much more interesting Manila is just a 9 hours' bus journey away.