A few minutes’ drive from the industrial port and town center of Isabel, a winding uphill road leads to Sitio Mahayahay in Brgy. Putingbato. At the top stands Il Fattoria, an Italian-inspired restaurant and view lounge that offers a panoramic look at the town below and, when the skies allow, a glimpse of the Camotes Sea catching the last light of the day.
Built on a hill overlooking rolling landscapes, Il Fattoria has become a local draw for small gatherings, casual dinners, and unhurried weekends. More than a dining destination, it illustrates how quiet, rural spaces are slowly gaining attention among domestic travelers seeking calm, open-air experiences far from commercial centers.
While Leyte is often associated with historical landmarks and urban redevelopment, its lesser-known towns and rural spots offer an alternative tourism narrative. Places like Il Fattoria do not command tour groups or large-scale promotion. Instead, they rely on word of mouth, social media mentions, and the growing interest in destinations that offer simplicity, natural scenery and accessible comfort.
A Slower Kind of Travel
The increasing appeal of remote and tranquil places mirrors a broader trend in domestic tourism. As more Filipinos explore their regions, there’s growing interest in experiences that emphasize rest, nature, and wellness.
“After the pandemic, I’ve found myself looking for places that are peaceful — not necessarily touristy,” said Glenn Abella, a public school employee who visited Il Fattoria with his wife. “Sometimes all you need is good food and a good view.”
Research supports this shift in travel preference. Studies from mental health organizations highlight the benefits of slow travel — or travel centered around longer, more intentional stays — as it relates to mental health. Reduced sensory overload, disconnection from digital environments, and reconnection with nature have all been shown to lower stress and improve overall mood.
At Il Fattoria, diners often stay well past their meals to watch the sunset, chat on the open-air deck, or walk around the hilltop garden, which includes a small vegetable patch. The atmosphere is informal, but deliberate — the kind of place where time slows down without the need for itineraries.
Travel and Access
Isabel is roughly a two-hour drive from Ormoc City, where flights from Manila arrive daily. Van and bus services connect Ormoc to Isabel, and the road to Sitio Mahayahay is accessible by private car or motorbike. Though steep in some parts, the route is paved and signposted.
While not a traditional tourism hub, the ease of transport and recent infrastructure improvements in Isabel have made it more welcoming to travelers. Business permits and local regulations for food establishments and accommodations have also become more streamlined, according to local officials.
“There’s more support now for people who want to open businesses that cater to visitors,” said a staffer at the Isabel municipal tourism office. “It’s still small-scale, but it’s sustainable.”
Local Impact
Il Fattoria employs local staff, sources some ingredients from nearby farms, and maintains a small cooperative of growers who provide herbs and vegetables. Its owner, originally from Tacloban, said the idea was not only to offer an experience but to create a livelihood that could be sustained year-round — not just during holidays.
“Tourism doesn’t need to be big to be meaningful,” she said. “If a few people come each day, and that allows us to keep hiring, sourcing, and maintaining the land, that’s already something.”
This approach aligns with sustainable tourism models that prioritize environmental stewardship and economic inclusivity over volume. There are no major developments surrounding the area, and future plans include maintaining the view deck, expanding the garden, and holding seasonal workshops on food and farming.
As domestic travel continues to evolve, destinations like Il Fattoria represent a growing niche — places that don’t promise grandeur but offer something perhaps more valuable: space to pause, reflect and appreciate the everyday beauty of a town like Isabel.
