3. Cagbalete Island
Secluded and serene are just some of the qualities that make Cagbalete Island a favorite Quezon Province tourist spot. With a land area of about 1640 hectares, Cagbalete sits on Lamon Bay, off the coast of the Mauban Town of Quezon.
People often compare Cagbalete’s white sandy beaches to the ones on the famous Boracay Island. The island is also gifted with a diverse ecosystem, being home to a wide range of plant and bird species. Agoho Pine trees are seen everywhere on the island.
To reach Cagbalete, you need to get to Mauban’s main port. From there, there are public boats that take people to the island. Daily boat trips are available in the morning and afternoon. You also have the option to arrange a private boat transfer through a resort in Cagbalete.
There are three notable resorts on the island, and they are all situated in its southeastern section. These resorts include MVT Sto. Niño Beach Resort., Pansacola Beach Resort , and Villa Cleofas. You can find the famous Cagbalete sandbar in front of Villa Cleofas.
While on Cagbalete Island, you can beach hop, snorkel, swim, fish, bird watch, and horseback ride. The resorts can usually organize outdoor activities like camping, picnic, beach volleyball, and other water sports. Boat tours to neighboring attractions are also popular. Some of these attractions include the Fish Sanctuary, Ilog Bukana, Bonsai Island, and Baliscar Island.
4. Mt. Banahaw
Mount Banahaw is the highest peak in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines. This name also refers to a complex that houses three volcanoes. These three volcanoes are Mt. Banahaw, San Cristobal, and Banahaw de Lucban. Mt. Banahaw is the tallest among the three, standing at about 2158 meters. The Mt. Banahaw complex sits on the boundary of Laguna and Quezon province.
Mt. Banahaw is widely known as a holy and mystical mountain. Local people believe that trekking the mountain can restore physical and spiritual health. There are also stories that the natural springs in the mountain have healing powers. Some of the mountain’s caves, streams, and boulders are also designated holy sites.
Because of these beliefs, hundreds of pilgrims visit Mt. Banahaw every year. The Catholic Holy Week is a particularly busy time with people gathering and performing rituals.
Whether you believe in Banahaw’s healing powers or not, it is a great hiking spot because of its height and accessibility. It is one of the tallest mountains near Manila. Once you reach the summit, you will get amazing views of the Quezon and Laguna landscapes. Trails to the mountain usually start at the towns located on the foothills. The towns of Sariaya and Dolores are two of the most popular jumping points.
Take note that Mt. Banahaw is an active volcano, so mild eruptions can still occur. Thus, it’s important to consult with local authorities before climbing the volcano complex.
