http://www.visitmyphilippines.com/ RSS feed en-us Copyright (C) 2014 visitmyphilippines.com Natural Mayon Volcano (The World’s Most Perfect Cone) Lying at the eastern portion of the province and rising to around 2,462 m. above sea level, Mayon covers an entire area of 250 sq. km. With a base circumference of 62.8 km., it encompasses the seemingly sleepy towns of Camalig, Malilipot and Sto. Domingo. Mayon Volcano has recorded a total of 45 eruptions since its first recorded eruption in 1616. In her calm, Mayon is overwhelming and magnificent in its grandeur. Unused by serious climbers for decades, the volcano’s northern trail exudes the fragrance of forest trees and diverse vegetation and has made a habitat to different unique species. Farther in the forest, other attractions are the moderate to heavy moss-covered earth walls and soil. A peculiar stretch of clearing can be seen as traces of a road bed constructed sometime in the 1930’s. At Camp 2, one gets another perspective of the volcano’s slopes and a birds’ eye view of the trail one took. A novice climber will be guided and taught climbing and survival techniques by trained guides mandatory to the climb, making one feel as if he is a seasoned climber. One can choose a day hike leading to the forest area to experience variety of flora and fauna. At 3,500 ft. above sea level is a viewing area that provides a fantastic panorama of the Albay Gulf, Mt. Malinao and the slopes of the volcano itself. A one and half day climb completes the towering 8,075 feet Mayon Adventure. At this level one sees the nine towns surrounding the volcano and the Albay Gulf on the east. Matagingting Falls (Jovellar) Located in Jovellar this broad waterfalls cascade into a river. BUGSUCAN FALLS (Tiwi) This tiered waterfalls set on a beauteous mountainside is another natural phenomena. The cascading water blend perfectly with its natural springs. Minaroso Caves (Rapu-Rapu) This natural cavern is situated close to the sea. It is a haven of sea birds and swallows. Roca Baluarte (Bacacay) This fort like formation has been converted into a beach resort. . Ilologan Beach (Manito) A long stretch of coral islands excellent for bathing, skin diving and fishing. Parian Mainit Spring (Camalig) A popular swimming and picnic resort. Thermal swimming pool and cottages are also available Sogod Beach (Bacacay) Well-known for its enclaves of black sandy beaches with towering coconut palms and lush vegetation providing cool shades. Corangon Island (Tiwi) A tiny islet formed by pulverized corals through thousands of years. The swirling turns of waves and sea currents caused these crushed corals to surface above the sea line, circling on and on until it evolved into an island. The island is clearly apparent during low tide as one approaches the town of Tiwi. Putsan Beach (Tiwi) The original source of ancient ceramics and potteries industry in the Bicol Region. Sweeping in long graceful curve, the beautiful white surging surfs of the ocean from a sharp contrast with jet black volcanic sands. Vera Falls (Malinao) Nestling about 400 ft. above sea level, on a secluded nook of Mt. Malinao, this natural paradise of forest and clear cascading water is treasure to behold. A snake-like trail passing along rivers and tree-filled hills awaits you, trekking with endless enthusiasm. At its base, cold water fresh for drinking flow freely. Time seems to stop when one reaches this pristine falls. Calabidongan Caves (Camalig) The name really means "Caves of the Bats"; a grotto-like formation inside the cave astounds visitors. Pototan Cave (Batan Island,Rapu-Rapu) A four-hour spelunking adventure about 10 ft. above the beach line. Its cave entrance, about 30 ft. high and 20 ft. wide, is shaped like a yawning mouth. Once inside, an underground river that spans around 12 ft. high calmly flows into different chambers and passageways. Stalactites and stalagmites of various shapes, sizes, and contours are carved on craggy walls. Busay Falls (Malilipot) Considered as one of the highest waterfalls in the country because of its seven-tiered cascading white foam, estimated to have a vital height of 800 feet from the top. Cagraray Island (Bacacay) Beach Lovers and Spelunkers Haven. Twenty kms. away and a two-hour boat ride from the town of Bacacay is the paradise island of Cagraray. Among the interesting and significant caves discovered in this island are: Cagbulacao Cave, Malubago Cave, Misibis Cave, Buhi Cave and the Mataas Cave. White sandy beaches in Misibis, Mosboron and Sula are nature lovers’ paradise Mosboron Beach Noted for its fine white sands, its irregular coastline facing the Pacific Ocean stretches almost three kilometers. A paradise for beach lovers, artists and nature lovers, an ideal place for swimming as well as exploring its rich and exotic marine life. MisIbis Beach Waterfront Resort Other nearby islands with white beaches are: Buguias in Sula Channel, Guinanayan near the northeastern tip of Cagraray Island, and Rapu-Rapu particularly a northwestern barangay called Morocborocan. Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave (Camalig) A natural tunnel-like structure. Legend says that this cave was the primitive habitat of the natives of the Nag-Aso Boiling Lake (Manito) A river with naturally heated water from beneath the earth. Del Rosario Caves (Jovellar) This grotto-like cavern is naturally formed on a hillside. Sula Channel (Bacacay) This channel connects Tabaco Bay and Albay Gulf. In the midpoint it looks like a lake because it is enclosed between the mainland Cagraray Island, then it meanders around the islets. The channel used to be the moorage of Spanish galleons during typhoons. It still has the same use at present. Historical Cagsawa Runis (Daraga) A grand and lavish church during the Spanish era that was buried during the worst Mayon eruption on February 1, 1814. Originally, the name was taken from Kagsawa (kag –“owner” and sawa – “python”) which suggested a snake charmer. Today, only the belfry remains as a mute testimony of Mayon’s unpredictable fury and devastating strength. Spanish Galleon Wreck Site (Sto. Domingo) The site serves as a strong reminder of the rich Manila-Acapulco trade routes during the Spanish era. Found along the shores of Buhatan Beach, this galleon relic was wrought by a strong typhoon on its way to Acapulco and crushed on the reefs of Albay Gulf. This historical remains lie at five fathoms under the sea with green transparent water Daraga Catholic Church (Daraga) Built in 1773 by Franciscan missionaries, it’s highly prized by art enthusiasts because of its rich baroque architecture. Its very high structure is considered above standard. Standing on massive hilltop, it dominates among the structures of the town of Daraga. At closer look, it contains archeological relics such as "santos" and religious seals carved articulately on volcanic rocks. These relics are considered priceless and collector's items. Camalig Church (Camalig) This is another missionary church built out of volcanic rocks. Today, relics from Hoyop-hoyopan Cave are carefully stored and displayed for viewing. These relics excavated from the cave reflect historical origins. They manifest the early Malaysian influence through the primitive jars excavated. Glazed ceramics reveal Chinese influx while the primitive potteries are derived from the flourishing Philippine culture 2,000 years ago. Socio-Economic Tiwi Geothermal Electric Power (Tiwi) An electric generation project with geothermal energy as a source. Designed to generate more than 227 megawatts, operated by NPC/NEA and Union Oil (USA). http://visitmyphilippines.com/index.php?title=Albay&func=all&pid=1686&Page=1&tbl=0&view=rss Sun, 2 Jul 2006 23:46:53 +0800