Fort Ilocandia Resort
A majestic, fortress-like resort in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, blending history with beachfront relaxation and a grand pool.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Fort Ilocandia Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic, fortress-like resort in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, blending history with beachfront relaxation and a grand pool.
"A fusion of distinct charm and heart-warming hospitality, reflecting the 'Ilocandia Way of Living'."
🚗 Transport from Laoag
Tricycles are common for the 20-min ride. Some suggest booking ahead for convenience.
💰 Entrance Fees
No entrance fee for the resort itself, but cottage rentals are available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Architecture
Step back in time with this sprawling fort-like resort, a fusion of Spanish and Asian influences.
Olympic-Size Pool
Take a refreshing dip in the expansive outdoor pool, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Beachfront Access
Enjoy the coastal breeze and scenic views with direct access to the beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Room Expectations: Charm vs. Modernity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Transport from Laoag
Tricycles are common for the 20-min ride. Some suggest booking ahead for convenience.
💰 Entrance Fees
No entrance fee for the resort itself, but cottage rentals are available.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The resort's unique architecture is a photographer's dream!
💧 Room Amenities
Some rooms may lack bidets, so pack accordingly if this is important. [^review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Transport from Laoag
Tricycles are common for the 20-min ride. Some suggest booking ahead for convenience.
💰 Entrance Fees
No entrance fee for the resort itself, but cottage rentals are available.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The resort's unique architecture is a photographer's dream!
💧 Room Amenities
Some rooms may lack bidets, so pack accordingly if this is important. [^review]
🏊♀️ Pool Fun
The large outdoor pool is a major draw for guests.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fort Ilocandia Resort offers a unique, majestic experience with its historical architecture and spacious grounds, including a large pool and beachfront access. While some guests praise the friendly service and ambiance, others point out that certain areas and rooms could use updating, and the location is a bit remote from the city center.
"Great location, stayed there for 3 days and 2 nights and its been one of the best hotels that i've been to. The service is great, the scenery is great, the food was okay, and my only problem is that there is no bidet on their toilet."
Sh17s
"Very spacious, love the ambiance around the area. I love that there's different hotel buildings that are connected to each other so you get to enjoy the outside view when you walk out of your room"
Sofia Nicole Ladringan
"Expensive Expensive and did I say Expensive?
But worth it if you like moldy damp smelling rooms. Mold patches painted over. Old dark marble bathrooms. Over priced nothing special breakfast buffets. And an overall Halloween Creepy vibe. And the clincher 20 mins ride from city center with no taxis available.
The aircon was cold. Beds comfy. Sleep quiet. Giant pool. Breathtaking gardens. Majestic spanish era fountain with no water. Large area for walks. Towels clean. Service staff always friendly and ready to serve.
This was the former bastion of glory and excess of the 70s and 80s. With pictures of famous people all over.
There was a convention in town but this majestic sprawling fort/ castle was empty."
M M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Ilocandia Resort is located about 20 minutes from Laoag City. You can take a tricycle, which is a common mode of transport in the area. Some travelers suggest arranging this through the front desk for convenience, though it might cost around 150 Php.
While you can take a jeep to Calayab, most visitors find it more convenient to take a tricycle directly to the resort. Taxis can be scarce, so planning your transport in advance is recommended.
The journey from Laoag City to Fort Ilocandia Resort typically takes around 20 minutes by tricycle.
Information on direct shuttle services is limited. It's advisable to arrange a tricycle or taxi in advance or upon arrival at the airport.
The resort is not directly on the main road, so you will need transportation to reach the entrance. [^review]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
According to traveler feedback, there is no specific entrance fee to enter the resort grounds. However, if you plan to use cottages, there is a rental fee.
The resort is generally open for guests to check in and enjoy its facilities throughout the day and night. Specific hours for restaurants or other amenities may vary.
It is highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons or if you are traveling with a group, to ensure availability.
Yes, Fort Ilocandia offers various room types. While some reviews mention older rooms, others highlight comfortable beds and quiet sleep. [^review]
While the resort is primarily for overnight guests, day use for facilities like the pool might be possible. It's best to inquire directly with the resort for current policies.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Guests can enjoy the large outdoor swimming pool, relax by the beachfront, and explore the spacious grounds. The resort's architecture itself is a major attraction. +1
Yes, Fort Ilocandia features a large, Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool that is a popular amenity for guests. [^review]
The resort offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy the coastal scenery and sea breeze. [^review]
The resort is known for its majestic, Spanish-era inspired architecture and spacious gardens, offering a unique historical ambiance. Some find it charming, while others describe it as a bit dated or 'creepy'. [^review]
Reviews are mixed. While some guests find the rooms comfortable and quiet, others mention issues like mold and outdated bathrooms. [^review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort features a Korean/Chinese restaurant and a bar. Breakfast buffets are available, described by some as average Filipino breakfast. [^review]
Since the resort is a bit far from the city center, dining options outside might require transportation. It's convenient to dine at the resort's restaurant.
Feedback on the breakfast buffet is mixed, with some finding it average and others noting it as a typical Filipino breakfast. [^review]
Yes, the resort has a bar where guests can enjoy drinks.
The resort's restaurant offers Korean and Chinese cuisine, providing a specific culinary experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The resort's unique architecture, sprawling gardens, and the beachfront offer numerous picturesque spots for photography. +1
Absolutely! The grand architecture and scenic surroundings make it an ideal location for pre-nuptial, fashion, or general travel photoshoots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the resort's beauty without harsh shadows.
The resort is quite expansive, so exploring different areas will give you a variety of photographic perspectives.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional or commercial shoots, it's always best to check with the resort management.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing extra snacks and drinks if your children are particular eaters, as dining options outside the resort require travel. The beachfront access is also a plus for family outings, though supervision is always key. Overall, it's a good option for families looking for a resort with ample space and recreational facilities, offering a different kind of experience compared to more modern hotels.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own snacks and utilizing the resort's pool and beach access, which are included with your stay. Look out for potential promotions or package deals that might be available. Traveling with a group can also help split costs for accommodation and transport.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions, which will enhance the textures and colors of the resort. The historical ambiance adds a dramatic flair to any photograph. Don't miss the chance to capture the resort during different times of the day to showcase its versatility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Fort Ilocandia's Past
During its peak, it was a symbol of opulence and hosted numerous dignitaries and events. While some areas might show signs of age, the resort's sprawling grounds and distinctive structures continue to captivate travelers. It offers a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Philippine history while enjoying resort amenities. [^review]
For those interested in history and architecture, Fort Ilocandia provides a fascinating backdrop. The resort's design, with its large courtyards and imposing facades, transports visitors to a different time. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering a memorable stay for history buffs and casual travelers alike.
Navigating Your Stay: Practical Tips
Regarding the accommodations, reviews suggest a mixed experience. While the resort offers a unique ambiance and spacious grounds, some guests have noted that certain rooms could benefit from updates, with mentions of dated bathrooms and occasional issues like mold. [^review] However, many still find the beds comfortable and the atmosphere quiet, conducive to a good night's sleep. [^review] It's worth inquiring about renovated rooms if modern facilities are a high priority for your stay.
For dining, the resort has its own Korean/Chinese restaurant and a bar. While breakfast buffets are available, feedback indicates they are generally average, offering a typical Filipino breakfast. [^review] Given the resort's location, dining within the property is often the most convenient option. The large outdoor pool and beachfront access are consistently highlighted as major positives, making them must-do activities during your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit