Where to Go And What to Do in Albay?
Are you on the lookout for an action-packed trip beyond the Mayon Volcano? The province of Albay in the Bicol Region is every tourist’s hidden gem offering numerous fun outdoor activities and leisure activities amidst natural wonders. Albay has always been on the top list of travelers seeking more thrilling adventures.
Why Visit Albay?
Home to the mouthwatering Bicol Express and the majestic Mayon Volcano, the perfect cone shaped volcano, this province will leave every traveler in awe with so many stunning views. You’ll surely love its nature-rich destinations and resorts, which everyone would include on their bucket list. Another exciting thing about Albay is its fascinating heritage sites, historical landmarks, national museum, and unique culture and traditions.
Albay : The Gateway to Bicolandia
Apart from this, Albay is also tagged as the “Gateway to Bicolandia” as it is accessible by air, sea, and land transportation, making it closer to any part of the country.
Bus trips from Manila pass through the South Luzon Expressway and the scenic drive through the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road. There are regular trips offered by Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific via the Bicol International Airport or Naga Airport. These are only some reasons it is one’s dream destination and why many tourists even wish to live here.
Where to Go in Albay?
Let us take you on a quick tour of the fantastic Albay tourist spots that will indeed serve pleasure to adventurers and nature lovers. By the end, you can start planning your city-life-escape trip with your family or friends by listing your itinerary the next time you visit Albay province.
It’s a good thing we already listed below the most exciting things to do in Albay.
Sunrise Trek at Mt. Masaraga
Explore one of the three well-known mountains in Albay
Suppose you are up for a challenge and want to witness the sunrise with an unobstructed view of the most popular among all Albay tourist spots, the majestic Mayon Volcano. In that case, mountaineering at Mt. Masaraga is the best idea.
Towering at the boundary of the cities of Ligao and Tabaco Albay, Mt. Masaraga is one of the three well-known mountains in the Albay district, together with Mt. Malinao and Mt. Mayon.
Among these three, Mt. Masaraga is the smallest, yet it stands at a formidable height of 1,328 meters above sea level. Prepare your travel kits as the trekking will take three hours with steep trails leading to the summit. Though arduous, the fresh air and gentle and breezy wind might be a consolation.
Another thing that you shouldn’t miss here is the view of the sunrise! The best time to start the hike is at 2:00 in the morning. Despite the challenging ascent, nothing is more gratifying than seeing nature’s breathtaking panoramic views. Despite the long climb, you will be rewarded with a most peaceful ambiance once you reach the peak.
As you get on the peak, ready your sweaters because you’ll feel the calm but chilly ambiance as the clouds start embracing the mountain.
Hike in Quitinday Hills
Albay’s version of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills
Have you seen Albay’s version of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills? You should go and never let the chance pass by without visiting this natural attraction in Camalig, Albay.
Quitinday hills are steep hill formations ranging from 100 to 130 meters in elevation, which comprise many verdant mounds. Of all these mounds, there are only two banks that are open for tourists. But these two peaks are enough to see the panoramic and complete view of the iconic Mayon Volcano.
The entire Quitinday Hills tour would take about six hours, including the two-way travel time. So make sure you have brought all your travel kits and, of course, your camera to capture the unique vibe and the magnificent backdrop.
Other hills you might want to explore:
- Kawa-Kawa Hills in Ligao City
- Ligñon Hill Nature Park in Legazpi City (featuring the Kapit Tuko Trail or Lizard Grip Trail)
Explore The Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave
Tales of ancient civilizations and wartime resilience
Skip the strenuous climb and delve into the mysteries of the earth at the Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave, a captivating wonder in Camalig, Albay. These aren’t just caves; they’re whispers of the past, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and wartime resilience.
Its existence has been traced back to around 3000 B.C. From the cave entrance, you could already feel the relaxing ambiance of the cave, hence its name “hoyop-hoyopan,” a Bicolano term for “blow of the wind.”
As you enter the calming atmosphere of the cave’s chambers, there are many rock formations that you can see in different images. There is also a well-known stalactite hand formation along its craggy walls, and some of the native people here believe that one should respect this hand or do a “mano” on their first visit.
It is better to wear comfortable clothes during your visit as you may need to climb and crawl inside the cave. Visiting would be more exciting because you can hire a tour guide there to share interesting and valuable information.
Other caves you might want to explore:
- Calabidongan Cave in Legazpi City, Albay
- Pototan Cave in Batan Island
Paddle at Sumlang Lake
Photo of Sumlag Lake | Retrieved from Klook
Enjoy the wonders of an eco-park adventure
Suppose you want to relax and enjoy an eco-park adventure. In that case, you can head on to Sumlang Lake. It is the only body of water where you can capture the perfect reflection of the Mayon Volcano. Isn’t it amazing that you would have a good catch of Mayon Volcano wherever you go here in Albay?
With the help of boatmen, you can take a tour and cruise Sumlang Lake. There are bamboo rafts with beautiful rattan chairs and floating couches that are perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos. You’ll probably enjoy the relaxing vibe of this place.
And by the way, this place is also best for friends and family picnics, so don’t forget to bring snacks or picnic baskets with your loved ones.
Other eco-parks with a fun and scenic playground and stunning views that you might want to visit:
- Cagraray Eco Energy Park in Bacacay Albay
- Albay Park and Wildlife in Legazpi City
- Mayon Volcano National Park in Tabaco City
Dip in Jovellar Underground River
Photo of Jovellar Underground River | Retrieved from Travel with Expedia Philippines
Albay’s version of Palawan Subterranean River
Suppose you want your Albay tour to become a more thrilling adventure, pack light and go on an off-road adventure to Jovellar Underground River. Locals saythis river and its deep blue waters are Albay’s version of the Palawan Subterranean River. Still, some say that this is unique and with thrilling experiences.
It became a popular Albay tourist spot through social media, where it gained all tourists’ attention because it features a cave with crystal clear water and lush greenery. The Jovellar Underground River is a must visit destination for adventure enthusiasts.
A bamboo raft will stake you through the stream with a 150-meter-long cave to have a round tour along the river bank. Be prepared and bring your swimsuits, comfortable clothes, and a waterproof camera. Enjoy and be amused with all the magnificent natural attractions in Jovellar.
Visit the Mayon Volcano Skyline View Deck
Photo of the Mayon Skyline Viewdeck | Retrieved from dreamstime.com
Get the same Tagaytay vibe in Albay
Want a closer look at Mayon Volcano without stepping on the volcano base? Get a good view of Mt. Mayon from the Mayon Skyline Viewdeck at Tabaco City. Nestled at the eastern side of Mayon Volcano, this recreational destination has the same vibe as Tagaytay City, with a cool breeze and a fantastic view of the city.
From here, you can have a panoramic view of Mt. Malinao, Mt. Masaraga, and Albay Golf, making your stay worth it. If you are brave enough to explore more of the Mayon Volcano, you can climb and go through the trail. But be sure to ask for assistance from the local tour guides to ensure your safety.
Experience an ATV Ride to Mayon Volcano Lava Wall
Photo of the Mayon Laval Wall Ride | Retrieved from Klook
The Place for Adventure Seekers
ATV on the lava trail of Mayon Volcano in Legazpi City is one of the best activities you should try during your visit. This would bring your adrenaline rush through the muddy and rocky roads.
As you get through the trail, experience an upward and downhill trek with a picturesque backdrop of the Mayon Volcano. The trail ends at a 6-kilometer radius from the volcano’s crater, and you can also physically touch the lava and volcanic rocks from the volcano’s most violent eruption. Roll your way with your friends and family to this another one-of-a-kind experience.
Have Fun at Legazpi Boulevard
Capture special moments
One of the most picturesque and cleanest boulevards in the Philippines is in Legazpi City Albay. Legazpi Boulevard extends the city’s business district to the southern part of the city.
Facing the Albay Gulf and nearby islands, plus the stunning look of Mayon Volcano, this place can’t stop every tourist from taking photos and capturing special moments.
Aside from the beautiful sights, Legazpi Boulevard is a tourist attraction that has a lot more to offer. It is a perfect place for fitness activities like jogging, biking, and even dancing Zumba. This is also where you can find Sawangan Park, the newest attraction in the City. It has an outdoor gym that everyone can use, plus a jogging path along the road.
What makes it more exciting is its vibrant nightlife—the boulevard magnets travelers with its numerous bars and restaurants, which will satisfy your cravings.
Immerse on Exclusive Privileges at Misibis Bay Resort
A hidden gem
Are you craving a tropical escape? Misibis Bay awaits in Albay. This private island resort caters to both sun worshippers and adrenaline junkies. Relax under swaying palms or conquer turquoise waters with windsurfing, kayaking, and more.
Going to Misibis Bay Resort takes a 50-minute flight from Manila to Legazpi, followed by a scenic 90-minute drive to Bacacay, Albay. Once there, unwind in luxurious accommodations or dive into your island adventure.
Witness the Cagsawa Ruins Park
A testament to Bicolanos resilience and indomitable spirit
Initially built in the 16th century by Franciscan missionaries, the Cagsawa Church stood as a beacon of faith for centuries.
Today, the Cagsawa Ruins Park stands as a stark reminder of multiple catastrophes that fell through the town. However, its weathered walls and sole remaining belfry, a lone sentinel against the sky, whisper tales of the indomitable spirit of the Bicolano people.
Visitors can wander through the ruins, imagining the bustling town square and the lives that once thrived within its shadow.
Lush greenery now carpets the once-devastated land, and tranquil pathways meander around the historic site. A modern-day museum, the Cagsawa Branch of the National Museum of the Philippines, adds another layer to the experience.
Inside, captivating photographs showcase the fiery dance of Mayon through the ages, along with fascinating geological and archeological exhibits that unveil the region’s rich history.
So, if you find yourself drawn to the allure of Albay, make sure to include the Cagsawa Ruins on your itinerary. Let the wind whisper tales through the ruins, and let the stories of faith and resilience etched in stone leave a mark on your soul.
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