The Philippines is known as a country incredibly blessed with breathtaking natural wonders such as world-class beaches, tantalizing views of amazing landscapes, hills, mountains, and other things. You can also expect to meet a lot of lovely and friendly people who will make you feel at home whenever and wherever! Well, that’s the brand of Philippine tourism, you’ll never feel out of place even for a bit!
Today, let me take you to one of the most beautiful yet underrated places you can ever visit in our country, the Batanes group of islands.
Batanes is situated in the northernmost part of the Philippines that’s why it’s considered the smallest and least populous province in the entire country. Batanes is also famously known as the “Home of the Winds” because it is almost regularly visited by strong typhoons from the Pacific Ocean. This is also the reason why you may notice that most of the houses in Batanes are entirely made up of huge stones and boulders; to combat the extreme winds brought by typhoons.
Compared to other famous tourist destinations in the Philippines such as Palawan, Boracay, and Siargao, Batanes exudes a more peaceful and relaxing vibe to everyone. You won’t find any wild parties and nightlife activities here. Instead, you’ll witness the unparalleled beauty of Batanes’ lush rolling hills, spectacular views of the ocean, and centuries-old stone houses.
Traveling to Batanes will make you feel like you’re going to an entirely different country because of the province’s unique approach to tourism. Batanes’ picturesque landmarks, simple way of living, and laid-back personality make it the ultimate getaway destination from all the hustle and bustle of the city.
Once you go to Batanes, you’ll never want to go back. So, what are you waiting for? Join me as we both discover the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Batanes!
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1. Racuh-A-Payaman (Marlboro Country)
Ah, there’s no better way to kick off our tour than by visiting the iconic Racuh-A-Payaman. When you think about Batanes, the first thing that comes to your mind is the spectacular view of the deep blue ocean and the lush green hills, right? Well, the real name of that area is actually Racuh-A-Payaman AKA Marlboro Country.
Photo by John Alvin Merin on Unsplash
The views and scenery in Marlboro Country are absolutely mind-blowing. I never thought that a place like this even existed in our country. After passing through the entrance, prepare to witness the massive view of Racuh-A-Payaman featuring its rugged hills, the ocean, Mt. Iraya, and the Tayid Lighthouse all in one place. You can even see some ponies wandering around eating grass off the hills.
The simplicity of the area is truly enchanting and romantic at the same time. That’s why Marlboro Country is also one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines to “pop the question” if you know what I mean.
There’s also another famous tourist attraction here at Racuh-A-Payaman known as the Fountain of Youth. As you reach the end of the hills, there’s a cliff leading to the amazing spring also known as the Rakuh-A-Idi. It’s a magnificent spring featuring turquoise crystalline waters overlooking the massive Pacific Ocean.
I’m sure that you’ll never be able to have enough of Racuh-A-Payaman’s magnificence, that’s why it’s better to maximize your opportunity to enjoy its picturesque beauty. Oh, and don’t forget to step up your camera game! Trust me, you’re gonna need it. CHECK – BEST GUESTHOUSES IN BATANES HERE
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2. Basco Lighthouse
Another famous destination in Batanes you shouldn’t miss is the iconic Basco Lighthouse. This 66-foot lighthouse stands on top of Naidi Hill. The very place it’s standing on was once a historical site known for being the home of Chieftain Boyas, one of the most famous Ivatan Chieftains in history. More than its rich history and significant function as a working lighthouse, the Basco Lighthouse is now one of Batanes’ sought-after tourist destinations.
Photo by Rexy Quieta on Unsplash
Aside from the picturesque view of the spectacular lighthouse, it also serves as a perfect vantage point to witness the breathtaking view of Batanes’ entire skyline featuring the endless sea, rolling hills, mountains, and lovely stone houses. Just head on to the fourth level and indulge yourself with amazing photos!
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3. Morong Beach
Bataan isn’t only about magnificent views and relaxing ambiance, it also has world-class white-sand beaches that will absolutely blow your mind! Morong Beach is the most famous beach in Batanes known for its white sands, crystal clear waters, and stunning rock formations, especially the Nakabuang Arch.
Photo by John Alvin Merin on Unsplash
Morong Beach is also a perfect surfing spot because it’s situated between the forceful waves of the Pacific Ocean and the West Philippine Sea. So if I were you, I’d take my time to relax and enjoy everything that Morong Beach has to offer!
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4. Vayang Rolling Hills
Vayang Rolling Hills is another one of the most anticipated tourist spots in Batanes. Known for its picturesque view featuring beautiful rolling hills, endless waves of the ocean, and the clear blue sky. Ah, it’s like a screensaver right before your eyes! Vayang Rolling Hills is one of the most relaxing and peaceful places to visit in Batanes thanks to the cool sea breeze enveloping the surroundings.
Photo by John Alvin Merin on Unsplash
Oh, and every spot in Vayang Rolling Hills is worth taking a picture of, trust me!
5. Alapad Hill and Rock Formation
In Batanes, there’s definitely no chance of you running out of picturesque destinations. Everywhere you go, I guarantee that you will always have your cameras ready. Especially here at Alapad Hill and Rock Formation!
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
This famous tourist destination is known for the spectacular scenery it offers to everyone. Countless rock formations, green curvy hills, and the massive view of the Pacific Ocean are all waiting for you here at Alapad Hill and Rock Formation. Just chilling out to enjoy and appreciate nature’s beauty will really achieve the peace and tranquility you deserve.
Even the road leading to Alapad Hill and Rock Formation, the iconic Imnajbu Road Cliffs is one of the most famous attractions in Batanes thanks to its scenic and picturesque views. As usual, prepare your cameras because you’ll definitely stop here to take some photos!
6. Tayid Lighthouse
Tayid Lighthouse is the famous lighthouse guarding the iconic Racuh-A-Payaman or better known as the Marlboro Country. This lighthouse was originally constructed in 2002 to help guide fishermen during the night. Today, although no longer operational, it still serves the mighty purpose of guiding tourists to witness one of the most beautiful sights in the Philippines.
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I’m sure that you’ll easily spot the Tayid Lighthouse in popular postcards featuring Batanes because it is basically the island’s most popular landmark.
7. Mt. Carmel Chapel
Due to the geographical location of Batanes, Ivatans are already veterans when it comes to dealing with some of nature’s most wrathful storms. That’s why almost every structure in Batanes is made up of stones. Yes, even churches.
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Mt. Carmel Chapel is the most famous church in Batanes which sits on top of a hill. It embodies the soul of Ivatans because the church also adopted the trademark stone-wall design of Ivatan’s houses. Moreover, it also features a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, the West Philippine Sea, and the massive body of lush, rolling hills of Batanes. So aside from offering peace and solemnity to its visitors, Mt. Carmel Chapel has also become one of the most famous tourist destinations in Batanes.
8. Sabtang Lighthouse
We all know that Batanes is home to several majestic structures called lighthouses. However, only three (3) of these beautiful lighthouses are functional up to this day. And one of those is no other than the Sabtang Lighthouse. Located near the edge of a cliff in San Vicente Port, this lighthouse is known to serve as a beacon and guide fishermen and seafarers to sail across the rough waters of the Pacific Ocean and the West Philippine Sea.
Photo by Yvonne Assen on Unsplash
More than its mighty task of guiding seafarers, the Sabtang Lighthouse also became popular as a tourist destination. The lighthouse offers undeniably breathtaking views of the crashing waves and rolling hills thanks to the viewing deck constructed on top of its aesthetic masonry design. That’s why there’s no doubt that the Sabtang Lighthouse is indeed one of the most beautiful places you can ever visit in Batanes.
9. Naidi Hills
Ah, another promising tourist destination awaits us and it is known as the Naidi Hills. This breathtaking landmark is known to feature the most beautiful sightseeing tour in all of Batanes thanks to the view of its bright green rolling hills, dark blue waters of the ocean, and the mighty Basco Lighthouse guarding the breathtaking tourist destination.
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To fully enjoy everything that Naidi Hills has to offer, I suggest that you climb atop the viewing deck of the Basco Lighthouse where you’ll definitely fall in love with the 360-degree view of the surrounding hills, ocean, and rock formations.
Oh, and in case you’re hungry, you can also take a break at the Bunker’s Café is a historical site featuring the ruins of an American Telegraph Facility.
10. Valugan Boulder Beach
Batanes is usually associated with stones and rock formations, right? From the province’s structures such as houses, churches, and lighthouses, almost everything in Batanes is associated with rocks and stones. Well, another remarkable tourist destination in Batanes featuring huge rocks and stones is no other than the iconic Valugan Boulder Beach!
Photo by John Alvin Merin on Unsplash
Indeed, the Valugan Boulder Beach is one of the most enchanting beach destinations because it features countless enormous boulders on its coast and forceful waves of the Pacific Ocean. Legend has it that these huge boulders came from a destructive volcanic eruption that happened thousands of years ago.
Although it’s not a typical beach destination where you can just chill out at the beach and let the gentle waves crash at your feet, the Valugan Boulder Beach is still an astonishing place to visit in Batanes.
11. Mount Iraya
Another breathtaking natural landmark you should visit in Batanes is no other than the province’s highest point, Mount Iraya. Standing at an elevation of 3,310 feet above sea level, this heavily forested active stratovolcano is undoubtedly considered one of Batanes’ treasured gems. The volcano has countless natural features that are worth witnessing that’s why it has become a haven for hikers and trekkers.
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The volcano last erupted in 1454 and it hasn’t been showing any signs of activity since 1998. So it’s a considerably safe place to hike. More than its significant role in tourism, Mount Iraya is also important to the culture of Ivatans. It is said that Mount Iraya is a mother protecting her precious children, which are the Ivatans themselves.
12. House of Dakay
I keep on saying that the trademark of Batanes is its famous stone structures, right? Well, I guess it’s safe to say that this trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting one! The best way to do that is by visiting the famous House of Dakay.
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This iconic landmark perfectly features the beautiful Ivatan culture and way of life. The stone house was originally built in 1877 for Luisa Estrella and was then inherited by her nephew, Jose “ Dakay” Estrella whom the structure was named after. Everything in the House of Dakay is perfectly preserved from its walls, flooring, foundations, windows, doors, and many more. The only thing replaced is the cogon roof which is changed every 20 to 30 years.
13. Savidug Stone Houses
Ah, if the House of Dakay isn’t enough, then I suggest that you visit the famous Savidug Stone Houses! This small village features a group of stone houses that are perfectly preserved by the Ivatans. Each house is made with solid stone walls and cogon roofs which are said to be effective against even the most destructive typhoons.
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Aside from embodying the rich culture and history of the Ivatans, the Savidug Stone Houses also feature the peaceful and laid-back way of living of the Ivatans. You can freely roam around and explore the community with ease because the locals would happily entertain you. So if you want to fully experience the unparalleled hospitality and friendliness of the Ivatan culture, then the Savidug Stone Houses tour is perfect for you!
14. Chawa View Deck
The Chawa View Deck is another must-visit tourist destination in Batanes that you shouldn’t miss. Located in the southern part of Batan Island, the Chawa View Deck offers a breathtaking glimpse of the evergreen hills and deep blue waters of the ocean. Every corner of the landmark seems like a perfect place to capture nature’s beauty and I assure you, every click would be worth it.
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It’s also given that the Chawa View Deck is one of the most special places to visit in Batanes because you can freely enjoy the peace and serenity you deserve. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the amazing scenery of Batanes as you breathe in the soothing breeze of the sea.
15. Honesty Coffee Shop
Finally! After spending all day exploring all the beautiful tourist destinations of Batanes, it’s about time that we take a break and enjoy some of the province’s best treats and delights. Well, there’s no better place to do that than the famous Honesty Coffee Shop of Ivana, Batanes. From the name itself, I guess that you already figured out what’s so special about the Honest Coffee Shop, right?
Credit: itsasoithing
In a province that’s proud to tell everyone that it has virtually zero crime rate, it’s just fitting that tourists contribute to the province’s well-respected core values. And one of those core values is obviously honesty. The Honesty Coffee Shop is unmanned and unguarded at any time of the day. So if you want to eat or drink something, you just take it and leave the payment in the box. That’s it!
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One Comment
JR
October 22, 2022 at 7:27 amDon’t forget about the fountain of youth!