If you’re heading to Catanduanes – a happy island province located in Bicol Region has countless incredible things to do. If you’re heading to one of my most favorite places in the Philippines, Here are my top 6 things you shouldn’t miss.
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Catanduanes – a happy island.
1. Binurong Point – Barangay Guinsaanan, Catanduanes
Batanes is known for its rolling hills and other scenic sights, making it a dream destination to many. However, to some, it remains a dream because of its expensive airfare. But did you know that somewhere in Catanduanes, there is a place with an equally breathtaking view? The place is called Binurong Point, the most famous rolling hills of Catanduanes.
? How to get there:
- By Habal Habal from Virac or Take a jeepney to Baras town
- Php40pesos per person by Habal Habal From Baras tö Barangay Guinsaanan, around 500 pesos round trip.
- Travel time: 15-20minutes ride to Binurong main point
- Register first before entering
- Entrance fee ?: 30 pesos per person
- Guide Fee ?: 200 pesos per solo/group
- Hike time ⏱: 30-40minutes from the main point to Binurong Point (depends on your walking pace)
- No overnight stay
- A tour guide is a must.
Other rolling hills to check - Lolong Point in Panganiban
- Hiyop Highlands
- Cagnipa Rolling Hills
- Palestina Rolling Hills
In Catanduanes alone, there are tons of stunning beaches and islands.
Thus, comes to my top 2 of the things you shouldn’t miss. Catanduanes is a full happy island that anywhere you go, you’ll find amazing yet untouched islands and beaches that will truly capture the mermaid heart in you.
2. PLUNGE INTO THE TURQUOISE WATER OF THE STUNNING BEACHES, OR HOWEVER YOU LIKE, REALLY
As the Philippines is a group of islands, it is blessed with beautiful beaches. As a beach lover, I was thrilled that beach-hopping was part of our itinerary during our Fam Tour in Catanduanes.
One of my favorite beaches is Virac, Batag. The beach has fine golden sand, deep blue waters. It is worth noting that it is close to the airport, only 20-30 minutes away via a habal-habal (motorbike). You can even see a glimpse of the Mayon Volcano from the opposite side of the beach.
Rent/Hire a habal-habal from Virac Airport. The regular fare costs 30 pesos per person. Please note that you still need to wait for other passengers to go to the same destination. But if you don’t mind paying more, a solo trip will cost you around 200 to 300 pesos. Isn’t it obvious that Catanduanes is truly a happy island?
Try Catanduanes’ best and yummiest local foods.
For me, it has one of the best and yummiest local foods, from sweet kakanin to plates of seafood. Therefore, one of my things to do in Catanduanes is to try local foods. Well, what’s having a trip to a new place without savouring its supreme bite to eat?
3. TRY LOCAL THE YUMMIEST LOCAL FOODS
Surrounded by vast oceans, no wonder, In Catanduanes, seafood is abundant; hence you can never run out of them.
I think I’ve had some of the best seafood and kakanin in Catanduanes. The fresh lobster and shrimps that they prepared for us were so yummy they stole my heart. Moreover, my favourite dish was the “kuhol” dish (snail in English). Kuhol was cooked with fresh veggies and coconut milk; it was unbelievably good. Eating this dish is an experience in itself; if you don’t know-how, you can ask the locals. Don’t worry; it’s easy; suck the snail out of its shell, and it goes right into your mouth.
On the other hand, the kakanin or rice cake in English was delightful and filling. As a Filipino, I’m a big lover of rice, so anything that comes with it, I’m going to love and eat it. And the good news is, there are varieties of kakanin and cooked in so many ways to choose from that contributes to Catanduanes being a happy island.
On top of that, when done satisfying your appetite, then head for shopping for local products.
Catanduanes a happy island’s summit view
4. ENJOY THE VIEW FROM SUMMIT VIEW PARK
I hope you are a morning person because it is best to visit the summit view during sunrise. Yep, you can witness the stubby sea of clouds here, just take a few steps up and you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view.
While we missed the first session of the heavenliness of sea of clouds (shame!) as we were kind of behind time, regardless, we were still able to see a remarkable sight. And while you’re there, you must try their rambutan. It is a fruit that you can buy in the area; it is quite sour but tender.
The right side photo above are the local amiable guides of Summit View Park!
Catanduanes’ pride- Local Abaca products
5. SHOP LOCAL
Abaca is the main product of Catanduanes, which they use to turn into different items that are artistic, affordable, and fashionable.
It’s incredibly remarkable that by buying any of the abaca products, you are helping the local Abaca farmers at the same time.
Abaca tree plantations are found and planted in the north of Catanduanes. They’re actually quite similar looking to the banana trees; the difference is that Abaca leaves are long and pointed while banana leaves are wide and shorter. Of course, this trip to Catanduanes without knowing the culture and people makes this happy island unite and harmonious. Thus, I didn’t miss the chance of taking home a locally produced abaca bag. Can you believe I only got it for 150 pesos?! What a great bargain that was!
6. Go unique- Delicia’s Farm
Delicia’s farm is one of a kind for me. Not only did I fall in love with the simplicity of the place, but I also found the owner, Mike, the farmer endearing. He made our short visit fun and memorable.
What is Delicia’s Farm?
Committed to serving the most delicious yet stomach-filling organic and natural foods, Delicia’s Farm is one of Catanduanes’ must-visit places. If you’re looking for a unique way to spend your day or night, then head to Delicia’s Farm. Moreover, Catanduanes is more of a happy island because of this unique activity that should be on your list of things to do. So, let’s get to know Delicia’s Farm.
- Delicia’s Farm serves foods that are absolutely organic, natural, and delicious.
- Farm to table, meaning the food on the table came directly from a specific farm without going through a store, market, or distributor along the way.
- Poultry animals such as chicken ? are being raised in the backyard community.
- Delicia’s Farm is personally managed by the owner, Michael F. Tidon, or as many call him, Mike. He makes sure that every guest enjoys a meaningful visit, whether a day trip or overnight stay.
- Delicia’s farm gives you an excellent piece of serenity away from the chaos of the city.
- Fresh Coconut juice is only 20 pesos.
- Must try their homemade Atsara and Bukayo!
- Absolutely Pocket-friendlY
Special thanks to Mam Carmel of Catanduanes Department of Tourism and the full staff of Catanduanes Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, and all the people who guided us for this super fun and extraordinary tour around the beautiful and charming Catanduanes, indeed a happy island worth a visit.
Not sure where to go? Explore other amazing places to travel in the Philippines
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