Excellent news! AirSWIFT has not too long ago opened industrial passenger flights to Romblon, connecting the Ninoy Aquino Worldwide Airport Terminal 4 (NAIA-4) in Metro Manila to Tugdan Airport (TBH) in Tablas Island. The boutique airline is the primary provider to function within the province for the reason that pandemic disrupted most tourism actions globally.
Romblon’s solely airport began operations a few years in the past, but it surely stays largely below the radar. It has been a favourite amongst scuba divers — because of the richness of its marine biodiversity — however most vacationers have but to find all the opposite pure and historic wonders that it has to supply.
We had been honored to be part of AirSwift’s inaugural flight to Romblon, so we had a sneak peek into its tourism trove. On this article, we’ll share with you, a number of the province’s key vacationer spots with some sensible details about every.
WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
The province of Romblon has three primary islands: Romblon, Tablas, and Sibuyan. Round and in between them are a number of different isles and reefs that appeal to scuba divers and underwater photographers from around the globe. Seashore lovers also can have a subject day in any of those islands!
On this part, we’ll share a number of the prime sights exterior the three primary islands and actions that may be loved in any a part of the province.
Cobrador Island
Amongst beachgoers, Romblon is best-known for his or her three-island tour, which covers the isles north of Rombon Island: Alad, Logbon, and Cobrador. Of the three, Cobrador Island is the farthest and the northernmost, however additionally it is inhabited. A lot of the settlements, nonetheless, are within the western and southwestern coasts, that are lined in a a large mattress of fantastic grains, shells and coral bits. The inside of the island is usually hilly, with some rocky cliffs and formations protruding into the ocean, framing the serene beachscapes.
A notable attraction on the island is Tinagong Dagat, a pure saltwater pool tucked on the northeast coast. However as of writing, this half is quickly closed.
Entrance Payment: P60
Environmental Payment: P30The way to Get to Cobrador Island: From Romblon Port, ebook an island hopping tour, which often contains Logbon Island, Alad Island, and Cobrador Island within the itinerary. Generally it’s the primary cease, different occasions, the final cease. The journey time from Romblon Port to Cobrador Island is about 45 minutes.
Cascarro Islet (Cliff Leaping)
Most island hopping excursions make a cease at close by Cascarro Islet, the place you’ll be able to go cliff leaping, if the circumstances are proper! Within the habagat season, the waves can get too robust, so boats would possibly get a tough time getting nearer to the steps resulting in the leaping board. On this case, you should bounce into the water out of your boat and swim in direction of the islet.
Beforehand a guard station, this tiny adrenaline paradise nonetheless homes the guardhouse, painted in aquamarine.
Logbon Island
Additionally a part of the three-isle tour, Logbon Island has an virtually uninterrupted seashore that spans its complete western coast. However its most outstanding characteristic is the Logbon Sandbar, dangling from its southeastern tip, simply subsequent to Romblon Seashore Resort. (That is simply the primary of the various sandbars that we’ll point out on this article.)
From right here, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Bonbon Seashore and Bang-og Island. On the opposite finish of the cove lie the Nabagbagan Rocks.
The way to Get to Logbon Island: From Romblon Port, get on a ship to Logbon Island. The journey time is 15-20 minutes. You may as well be a part of an island hopping tour, which often contains Logbon Island, Alad Island, and Cobrador Island.
Alad Island
Positioned north of Logbon, Alad Island is one other inhabited island boasting pristine and uncrowded seashores with ivory sand. A marine sanctuary, the island’s surrounding waters supply wonderful snorkeling and diving spots in each the west and east coasts and are dwelling to quite a few species of fish and comfortable and arduous corals.
The way to Get to Alad Island: From Romblon Port, get on a ship to Alad Island. The journey time is 20-25 minutes. You may as well hop on an island-hopping boat, which often contains Logbon Island, Alad Island, and Cobrador Island within the itinerary.
Carabao Island
Additionally known as Hambil Island, Carabao Island lies off the southern coast of Tablas Island. Right here, you’ll discover the city of San Jose, Romblon’s southernmost municipality. It’s also conveniently near Aklan’s Boracay Island, piquing the curiosity of extra seashore chasers who’re on the lookout for quieter, extra laidback escape. From Boracay, you might merely ebook a ship tour to Carabao Island and be again inside the day.
Its nooks and crannies are stuffed with white sand, punctuated by cliff diving websites and lined with extremely Instagrammable coconut bushes.
Protecting a land space of twenty-two.05 sq. kilometers, it boasts quite a lot of sights together with:
- Lanas Seashore
- San Jose Seashore
- Tagaytay Viewpoint
- cliff leaping spots like Cathedral Cave and Koding Koding
It may be accessed both approach: through Santa Fe Port (about an hour) in Romblon or through Boracay (40-45 minutes). Cabalian Channel separates Carabao Island from Tablas Island, whereas Hambil Channel separates it from Boracay Island.
The way to Get to Carabao Island: If coming from Tablas, go to Santa Fe Port, then take about to Carabao Island. If coming from Boracay, simply constitution a ship or ebook a day tour. If you’re within the Caticlan space, go to Tabon Port, then take a ship to Carabao Island.
Scuba Diving
Whereas the higher touristing public remains to be taking its candy time discovering its many seashores, scuba divers from all around the globe have lengthy been making Romblon their dwelling and playground.
Romblon is positioned close to the mouth of the Verde Island Passage, thought of the realm with the richest biodiversity on the planet. Beneath the waves is an underwater wonderland, marked by quite a lot of dive websites together with:
- Three P Home Reef
- Blue Gap
- Bonbon Sea Grass Valley
- The Rope
- Lunas
- Mapula
One of many locations we stayed at in Romblon Island is Three P Vacation and Dive Resort, which has entry to the Home Reef. We met two of three brothers, who personal the resort, and so they talked about that almost all of their friends are divers who want to see a number of the uncommon creatures discovered within the surrounding reefs.
Romblon Meals Journey
Typically neglected, Romblon’s delicacies is one thing we don’t usually see highlighted or featured sufficient in popular culture. But it surely’s one thing you shouldn’t miss whenever you go to. A lot of the province’s land space is fertile and its surrounding waters are a present that retains on giving, guaranteeing that substances are recent and ample. Coconut and seafood are the commonest substances.
Listed below are a few of my favourite native delicacies. Description beneath, clockwise.
- Sarsa, freshwater shrimps combined with coconut and spices after which wrapped in coconut leaves.
- Sihi, small shellfish usually served ginataan (in coconut milk)
- Gayabon, recent taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, just like laing
- Utan na langka, chopped unripe jackfruit cooked in coconut milk
Conventional Filipino snacks are additionally peddled within the streets of most cities, the commonest of which is suman, usually rice or cassava truffles wrapped in banana or coconut leaves. Suman, after all, is available in completely different sizes and shapes. We had been advised that the signature Romblomanon suman is that this (pictured beneath), a candy and oily concoction fabricated from sticky rice. Visually, texturally, and flavorally taste-wise, it’s similar to Batangas’s sumang Taal, which isn’t actually shocking for the reason that two provinces are geographically and culturally shut.
Probably the most unfamiliar to me was nilidgid, which is fabricated from floor corn after which wrapped in corn husk. Lidgid, I used to be advised, means to grate.
Cobrador Island additionally takes absolute pleasure in its atis (custard apple), and the locals we talked to assert that the island produces the sweetest varieties.
And naturally, don’t depart the province with out stuffing your face with all types of seafood!
Romblon Island is the place you’ll discover the municipality of Romblon, the capital and the financial and administrative hub of the province. The island additionally boasts pristine sandbars, secluded coves, white sand seashores, and a few cultural sights. Let’s check out a few of them.
Fort San Andres
Fort San Andres sits atop San Antonio Hill between Barangay Capaclan and Barangay II, overlooking the harbor and the municipality of Romblon. Comprised of coral stones and limestones, it covers an space of just about 300 sq. meters with 4 turrets, one in every nook. Spanish-era cannons additionally adorn the fort grounds.
The fort was constructed within the mid-Seventeenth century as a part of Spain’s army protection, guaranteeing the safety of its occupied lands and outposts from Dutch invaders and Moro pirates throughout the 80 Years Battle. The development was overseen by the Portuguese friar, Fr. Agustin de San Pedro, nicknamed “El Padre Capitan”.
It was declared a Nationwide Cultural Treasure by the Nationwide Museum of the Philippines in 2013. With a grant from the Nationwide Fee for Tradition and the Arts (NCCA) in 2012, the primary two phases of restoration tasks had been lastly accomplished in 2016.
That is the one remaining construction of the Twin Forts of the Romblon. The opposite tower, Fort Santiago, used to crown Calvary Hill however is now in ruins reclaimed by nature.
One of the best time to go is early morning and late afternoon throughout sundown.
Location: Fort San Andres Street, Poblacion, Romblon, Romblon
Entrance Payment: FREE. Any quantity of donation is far appreciated.
Visiting Hours: It’s open 24/7, however the standard visiting schedule is from 6:00 AM to six:00 PM.
Leap-Off Level: Thermopilas Road or Sabang Street
Talipasak Seashore (San Pedro Seashore)
A secluded stretch of sand alongside the western fringe of the island, Talipasak Seashore gives a tranquil seashore escapade. Positioned greater than 12 kilometers from the city middle, the seashore might be reached by land through a slender facet street linked to the primary freeway.
On a transparent sunny day, the ocean dazzles in varied shades of blue and inexperienced. Its cream-colored sand is a combination of fantastic grains and crushed corals. A number of meters from the shore, the waters supply underwater surroundings good for snorkeling.
San Pedro Seashore Resort is your primary entry to the seashore. You’ll be able to go to on a day tour or keep in a single day. In the event you want to spend an evening right here, know that the resort facilities are fundamental and the cellphone sign can get patchy. You could carry your individual meals, however it’s also possible to ask the administration for the menu.
Location: Barangay Ginablan, Romblon, Romblon
Entrance Payment: P50 (Day Tour)
Day Tour Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM. The schedule would possibly change, so it’s finest to test for updates earlier than going.
The way to Get to Talipasak Seashore: From the brown middle, you might rent a tricycle to take you to San Pedro Seashore Resort. The fare begins at P200 for 2-3 pax. The journey time is 30-45 minutes.
Bonbon Seashore
Bon Bon Seashore is the most well-liked seashore vacation spot within the province, thanks largely to its accessibility and sheer magnificence.
What’s exceptional about Bonbon Seashore is that it glazes two sides of a scenic cape that stands proud from the western coast of Romblon Island. These two seashores meet on the tip, which is adorned by a prolonged sandbar that stretches out to close by uninhabited Bang-og Island at low tide.
From the city middle, a brief tricycle trip can take you westward to the jumpoff level. Though this secluded seashore is hidden from view from the primary street by the luxurious vegetation, it’s truly only a quick stroll, lower than 5 minutes, from there. There’s a directional signal alongside the path.
Notice that it is a rugged seashore, so no industrial institutions across the space, besides a small guesthouse that additionally serves because the entry strategy to the seashore. Up to now, vacationers and locals had been in a position to entry this paradise without cost. However on our current go to, we met the proprietor and discovered from him that extra facilities are being constructed within the space, so count on to pay an entrance charge quickly.
Bon Bon Seashore additionally faces west, making it one other superior sundown viewing spot.
Location: Bon Bon Seashore, Barangay Lonos, Romblon, Romblon
Leap-Off Level: Regional Freeway 305/Romblon-Sawang-Agnipa-Sablayan Street in Barangay Lonos
Tiamban Seashore
Positioned simply south of Bon Bon Seashore in Barangay Lonos, Tiamban Seashore is one other seashore vacation spot close to the city middle. It’s a lot shorter strip than Bonbon Seashore, however nonetheless fairly picturesque, blanketed with fantastic, light-colored sand. It’s additionally a spectacular sundown spot.
That is non-public property, however guests are nonetheless allowed to enter for a charge. Tables and huts can be found for hire in addition to a eating place. If you wish to lower your expenses on meals, you’ll be able to simply carry your individual meals, snacks, and drinks. The seashore might be accessed through stairs down from the primary street.
Location: Tiamban Seashore, Barangay Lonos, Romblon, Romblon
Entrance Payment: P50/head
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM. The schedule would possibly change, so it’s finest to test the up to date opening hours earlier than going.
Leap-Off Level: Regional Freeway 305/Romblon-Sawang-Agnipa-Sablayan Street in Barangay Lonos
Cajimos Marble Manufacturing facility
In accordance with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the province is blessed with an estimated 150 million metric tons of marble deposit that may final for as much as about 300 extra years primarily based on the present extraction charges. Naturally, the province’s economic system depends closely on the marble trade. Speak about bringing meals to the desk on a marble platter as an alternative of silver.
Marble merchandise vary from small objects (ashtrays, paperweights, and so forth.) to furnishings units (backyard lounges, benches, eating tables, and so forth.) to building supplies (tiles, stones, chips, and so forth.). A lot of the marble extraction, quarrying, and processing occur within the municipality of Romblon.
If you’re fascinated by marble processing, you’ll be able to go to Barangay Cajimos, one of many locations in Romblon providing manufacturing unit excursions.
Location: Barangay Cajimos, Romblon, Romblon
Romblon Purchasing Middle
In the event you’re on the lookout for memento objects which can be quintessentially Romblomanon, head over to the Romblon Purchasing Middle, which is a posh composed of a number of memento shops. True to its marble capital moniker, it’s bursting with all issues marble — from kitchen utensils to furnishings items to non secular collectible figurines.
Memento staples like keychains and ref magnets are additionally obtainable, additionally fabricated from marble, at solely P35 every. You’ll be able to also have a title or textual content engraved on it without cost. Probably the most attention-grabbing are most likely the lapida keychains (tombstone keychains), which you’ll be able to give as pasalubong to your pals (or non-friends). You may as well have them engrave a reputation on it.
Not too distant from the buying complicated stands the Romblon signage beside an enormous statue of a dolphin, each in marble.
Romblon Cathedral
Extra formally referred to as St. Joseph Cathedral, it is without doubt one of the most essential landmarks within the province.
Hailed as a Nationwide Cultural Treasure by the Nationwide Museum of the Philippines in 2001, it has roots that may be traced again to the fifteenth century. However a lot of the cathedral’s construction at the moment had been constructed or added a lot later, within the 18th and nineteenth centuries.
The fortress church was initially constructed to serve not solely as a non secular website but additionally as a protection construction towards the Moro raids within the Seventeenth century. Just like the Twin Forts, the cathedral’s building was supervised by the Portuguese Recollect priest Fr. Agustin de San Pedro.
It acquired its cathedral standing when the Diocese of Romblon was based in 1974. Two of the highlights are the belfry and the picture of Sto. Niño de Romblon.
Location: Rizal Road, Barangay 1, Poblacion, Romblon, Romblon
Mass Schedule: Wednesday – Friday, 6:00 PM / Saturday, 7:00 AM / Sunday, 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM & 5:00 PM. These schedules would possibly change, so it’s finest to test for updates earlier than going.
Tablas Island is the most important within the archipelago. Regardless of its dimension and land space, most components of the island are nonetheless untouched by urbanization, making it a haven for individuals who want nature tripping, journey trails, island hopping (and seashore hopping), scuba diving, and thrilling actions like cliff leaping.
Biaringan Zipline
Admire the scenic coastal views on the northeastern finish of Tablas Island from above! the Biaringan Zipline is a two-way island-to-island zipline connecting Tablas to the smaller Biaringan Island. It’s stated to be the primary of its form within the nation.
Spanning a complete size of 1,350 meters, the zipline measures 700 meters from Station 1 to Station 2 and 650 meters from Station 2 to three.
The jump-off station is at Lengthy Seashore in Barangay Mahabangbaybay within the municipality of San Agustin. Going to the best station entails a 20-minute uphill trek, however the trip ends on the identical facet, nearer to the seashore.
Notice that this attraction is weather-dependent. After we visited, we weren’t allowed to do it as a result of the wind was tremendous robust, so make certain to test the climate and coordinate with the administration first earlier than going.
Location: Barangay Mahabangbaybay, San Agustin, Romblon
Charges: Adults (18 y/o and above), P350; Kids (12-17 y/o), P300 (two-way)
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM. The schedule would possibly change, so it’s finest to test the up to date opening hours earlier than going.
Leap-Off Level: Lengthy Seashore in Barangay Mahabangbaybay
Dad’s Bukid
Romblon isn’t all about seashores! Perched on a mountainside, Dad’s Bukid gives a laid-back venue for these eager to chill out whereas having fun with the view of the Tablas highlands, notably Pader forest, Mt. Kang-ayong and Mt. Ondok, curiously nicknamed Suso ng Dalaga.
Its highest level is at 360 meters ASL. You’ll be able to take within the verdant surroundings from the primary viewing deck or from the log deck.
A pioneer ecotourism vacation spot within the city of San Andres, the farm goals to advertise the worth of straightforward residing via its “buhay-bukid” strategy. It’s a spot the place you’ll be able to follow the artwork of doing nothing!
If you wish to keep for an evening, you’ll be able to ebook one of many few glamping A-frame huts with fundamental facilities. Though they name it “glamping” huts, know that these are very fundamental, however a bedsheet can be supplied. The setting and local weather listed here are paying homage to Tagaytay, so don’t overlook to carry your jacket or something to maintain you heat throughout colder days when the place might be lined in fog too. The realm has a weak cellphone sign or none in any respect.
Listed below are the charges:
- Entrance Payment: P20/head
- A-Body Hut (w/ bedsheet): P600/2-3 pax
- Tent Pitching: P1,000/tent
- Treehouse: P1,000 (as much as 8 pax)
- Use of Cooking Facilities: P100.
You’ll be able to carry your individual meals or you’ll be able to avail of their meals for P120 per individual per meal. A modest café gives snacks and drinks do you have to get hungry.
Location: Binoog Street, Barangay Victoria, San Andres, Romblon
Opening Hours: Monday – Tuesday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Wednesday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday – Sunday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Glamping Hours, 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM. The schedule would possibly change, so it’s finest to test the up to date opening hours earlier than going.
Leap-Off Level: Binoog Street in Barangay Victoria
Marinor Mountainview Resort
One other highland resort within the municipality of Ferrol is Marinor Mountainview in Brgy. Hinaguman. You’ll be able to simply acknowledge it by the attention-grabbing picket duplicate of the Eiffel Tower that straddles its entrance gate. As you climb to the primary corridor, you’ll discover one other construction that appears like a ship poking out from the slope. MV Marinor, the signal reads.
And sure, rooms are additionally obtainable for individuals who wish to spend the evening. Charges are from P1,400 to P1,600 per evening. It additionally homes a restaurant.
However as a result of it’s constructed on a hillside, Marinor Mountainview’s largest asset is the view. From right here, you’ll be able to simply spot past the luxurious forest a glowing sandbar extending to a rocky islet. That, my buddy, is Binucot Seashore.
Location: Barangay Hinaguman, Ferrol, Romblon
Entrance Payment: P30/head
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM. The schedule would possibly change, so it’s finest to test the up to date opening hours earlier than going.
Leap-Off Level: Tablas Circumferential Street/Regional Freeway 308
Binucot Seashore
Positioned on the southwestern coast of Tablas Island within the city of Ferrol, Binucot Seashore is an off-the-beaten-path seashore vacation spot. Its uncooked magnificence is magnified by the rock formations, the coconut bushes lining the seashore, and its cream-colored berm made up of shingles, pebbles, and rocks. The shore is split into two coves, clipped by a outstanding lush rock islet, making a visually arresting beachscape.
The waters differ in depth, so select the shallow components the place it’s protected for youths to swim. The energy of the waves is determined by the season — robust throughout the habagat and calm throughout the amihan. In the event you want deeper waters to correctly swim in, you’ll be able to simply discover your spot too. The clear blue water can be nice for snorkeling.
Binucot Seashore can be a great spot for sundown viewing. You’ll be able to ask the locals for the paths to the hilly viewpoints and a cave.
In 2009, it was established as a marine protected space as a result of presence of uncommon and endangered species together with the arduous and comfortable corals. The seashore additionally serves as a turtle sanctuary.
Location: Barangay Bunsoran/Hinaguman, Ferrol, Romblon
Leap-Off Level: Tablas Circumferential Street/Regional Freeway 308
Bel-at Level
In the event you stroll farther south of Binucot Seashore, you’ll attain a small quiet cove bookmarked by towering limestone cliffs. That is Bel-at level.
Sticking our from the middle of the seashore into the ocean is a protracted wooded boardwalk that results in a lined overwater gazebo, which serves as a viewing deck. This is without doubt one of the finest spots to look at the sundown on Tablas Island.
In the event you come early for sundown, you might observe a path and take a brief trek up a hill for the fantastic view of Bel-at Level and Binucot Seashore.
Location: Barangay Hinaguman, Ferrol, Romblon
Leap-Off Level: Binucot Seashore through Tablas Circumferential Street/Regional Freeway 308
Looc Fish Sanctuary
Nestled in the midst of Looc Bay, the Looc Fish Sanctuary is a protected marine space, encompassing a complete space of 48 hectares. Established in 1999, it goals to guard the marine ecosystem of the realm whereas additionally enriching its native livelihood. The sanctuary harbors a couple of hundred completely different marine species, together with reef fishes, octopuses, eels, turtles, big clams, and corals.
Registration and cost are performed at Looc Pier. Get on a ship that may ferry you to the marine sanctuary in 5-10 minutes. The spacious floating dock or pontoon serves as a base for vacationers the place they’ll calm down, eat, and simply chill.
Get pleasure from your time swimming with the colourful fishes or marvel at them whereas snorkeling. Fish feeding is allowed right here, however we don’t suggest it because it may alter their habits.
You may as well see the outdated lighthouse close by.
Location: Looc Bay, Looc, Romblon
Entrance Payment: Grownup, P100; Baby, P50. The charges are inclusive of the roundtrip boat trip. Notice that this would possibly change quickly as price changes are within the works.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The schedule would possibly change, so it’s finest to test the up to date opening hours earlier than going.
Leap-Off Level: Looc Pier
Cabaliwan Peak
Located in San Agustin close to the border with San Andres, the Cabaliwan Peak is without doubt one of the noteworthy spots within the province in case you are after breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the encompassing lush mountains. You’ll be able to even see the mighty and mystical Mt. Guiting-Guiting on a transparent day. The concrete street main as much as the spot snakes across the mountainous panorama, making a scenic and thrilling trip.
You’ll be able to go farther off the concrete street, taking the rugged trails, to a number of the view spots. The climate might be a lot cooler right here, so be sure you have your jacket with you. Bask within the bucolic setting and profit from your journey right here by taking as many photographs as you want.
Location: Barangay Bachawan, San Agustin, Romblon
Leap-Off Level: Bachawan Barangay Street
Sibuyan Island is the second largest Romblon isle, subsequent to Tablas. It harbors three of the province’s municipalities particularly Cajidiocan, Magdiwang, and San Fernando. Due to its unspoiled panorama and largely intact forests and wildlife, the island is commonly dubbed the “Galapagos of Asia”. Its most exceptional pure landmark is Mount Guiting-Guiting (G2), the best mountain within the province.
Listed below are a number of the finest vacationer sights in Sibuyan Island.
Cresta de Gallo
About 12 kilometers off the southern tip of Sibuyan Island, Cresta de Gallo is probably not the simplest tropical paradise to succeed in however those that courageous the lengthy journey are rewarded with pristine white-sand seashores lapped up by cerulean waters.
The 2 islets forming Cresta de Gallo are linked by a sandbar, which surfaces when the tide is low. The opposite sandbars embody one tailing the southern a part of the bigger isle and one other extending from the northern tip of the smaller islet.
Notice that the one construction on the island is the caretaker hut. You might want to carry your individual tent, meals, and water in case you are planning to spend the evening right here.
Location: San Fernando, Romblon
Entrance Payment: P20-50, is determined by your contact/boatman
Boat Charges: The boat charges from San Fernando to Cresta de Gallo vary from P2,500 to P3,000, relying on the dimensions of the group and the length of keep (day journey or in a single day).
Leap-Off Level: Barangay Azagra in San Fernando
The way to Get to Cresta de Gallo: From Tablas Airport, go to Odiongan Port. Trip a ferry to Sibuyan Island’s Magdiwang Port. From there, trip a jeepney to San Fernando. From San Fernando, take a ship to Cresta de Gallo. The boat trip lasts for about an hour, relying on the wave situation.
Mt Guiting-Guiting
Towering over Sibuyan Island, Mount Guiting-Guiting, nicknamed G2 by mountaineers, is essentially the most outstanding characteristic of the protected Mt. Guiting-Guiting Pure Park, which was based in 1996. Standing 2,058 meters above sea stage, it’s hailed because the tallest mountain within the province. Its formidable peaks and unforgiving slopes pose nice problem to mountaineers, making it one of the tough to climb within the nation.
Within the vernacular, guiting-guiting means “jagged”, a shoutout to its most attention-grabbing characteristic: the jagged-shape ridge that resembles a noticed or, for those who’re into dinosaurs, the again of a stegosaurus!
The standard tenting cease earlier than continuing to the summit is Mayo’s Peak. Often, those that are usually not seasoned hikers decide to conclude their climb right here, which is already a feat! The climate is kind of risky and impacts the visibility and wind pace, particularly when you find yourself nearing the grassy summit.
We had been advised that the views on the summit and at Mayo’s Peak are breathtaking and humbling. And even for those who weren’t in a position to attain the summit, the surroundings all all through the entire stretch of meandering lush trails is already a deal with. Presently, hikers have two path choices — one from Magdiwang and one other from San Fernando.
Location: Mt. Guiting-Guiting Pure Park, Sibuyan Island, Romblon
Leap-Off Level: Magdiwang Path or San Fernando Path
Cantingas River
Flowing from the majestic Mount Guiting-Guiting down towards San Fernando Bay, Cantingas River is the island’s lifeline — its main wellspring of water and electrical energy (through mini-hydro powerplant), contributing about 90% of the availability.
The most well-liked a part of the river is Cantingas River Resort, which gives a cool respite surrounded by stunning pure surroundings. Swim within the clear calm waters. In the event you’re feeling adventurous, bounce from any of the three concrete diving platforms at varied heights: 5m, 7m, and 10m. Or for those who’re simply in a calming temper, simply dip your ft whereas taking within the breathtaking views, together with Mt. Guiting-Guiting within the background.
Facilities together with kiosks, picnic tables, showers and bathrooms, and a parking space can be found. You might want to carry your individual meals and drinks. This place is widespread amongst locals, particularly on weekends.
Location: Barangay Taclobo, San Fernando, Romblon
Entrance Payment: Locals, P20; Foreigners, P50
Visiting Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Leap-Off Level: Sibuyan Circumferential Street/Regional Freeway 302. The slender street resulting in Cantingas River Resort is positioned close to the bridge.
Waterfalls
Inside the island’s lush inexperienced nooks and crannies lie a number of cascades, every possessing its personal appeal and distinctive character. Listed below are a few of them:
- Busay Falls. Positioned in Barangay Panangcalan within the city of San Fernando, it contains a tall column falling from a rocky cliff right into a deep swimming gap. The realm is surrounded by enormous rocks and slabs.
- Dagubdob Falls. Positioned in Barangay Espana in San Fernando, Dagubdob Falls is a four-tiered collection of cascades and pure swimming pools. Some swimming pools are good for cliff diving too.
- Cataja Falls. Positioned in Barangay Jao-asan within the city of Magdiwang, Cataja Falls is an imposing multi-level splash-machine. One of the best time to go to is throughout the moist season when the quantity of water is excessive and the move is robust. As of writing, it’s quickly closed.
- Lambingan Falls. Positioned in Barangay Silum in Magdiwang, Lambingan Falls is small in comparison with different falls within the space, however this is without doubt one of the hottest too as a result of its accessibility from the primary street.
- Cawa-Cawa Falls. Positioned in Barangay Weste, inside the ancestral area of the Sibuyan Mangayn Tagabukid, within the city of Cajidiocan, Cawa-Cawa Falls is a three-level cascade with three kawa-shaped pure swimming pools. The cascades are usually not actually excessive, however the depths of the swimming pools are good for cliff diving too.
For the previous few years, the one mode of transportation to the archipelagic province is by sea through Batangas Port or Manila Port. However that has modified not too long ago! On September 24, AirSWIFT, the one boutique airline within the Philippines, had its inaugural flight to Romblon from NAIA’s Terminal 4. Touring to the province is now sooner and extra handy.
The Manila-Romblon (Tablas) route is on the market twice per week — Tuesdays and Saturdays. The journey takes about one hour and quarter-hour.
Airswift gives 4 sorts of airfare packages: Promo, Primary, Worth, and Premium.
- Promo has limitless free rebooking (topic to fare distinction) and 7KGs carry-on baggage. Nonetheless, because it’s a promo, restricted seats can be found for this bundle.
- Primary allows you to rebook 5x freed from cost (fare distinction could apply), but it surely doesn’t enable refunding and rerouting. No check-in baggage allowance, however you may have free 7KGs for carry-on baggage.
- Worth gives 10KGs check-in baggage allowance on prime of the 7KGs carry-on baggage. This additionally permits 5x rebooking without cost (fare distinction could apply), but it surely doesn’t enable rerouting.
- Premium has the identical perks because the Worth bundle BUT with a check-in baggage allowance of 20KGs as an alternative of simply 10KGs.
To test flight schedules or to ebook, go to AirSWIFT’s official web site.
As talked about, Romblon has three primary islands: Romblon Island, Tablas, and Sibuyan. One of the best space is determined by what sights you want to get pleasure from. However most vacationers often keep both in Tablas or Romblon, which have essentially the most lodging choices and extra developed sights and institutions.
Listed below are the highest Romblon inns and resorts on Agoda:
Written by: Asta Alvarez
Photographs and extra phrases by: Yosh Dimen
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