In need of Vitamin Sea but been to Batangas countless times? Or would like to experience a piece of Boracay but doesn't want to dent your wallet? Great news loveys! Somewhere in Quezon is another hidden gem with an amazing view of sunset/sunrise, budget friendly accommodations and unspoiled beach; perfect for a calm and relaxing getaway. Oh did I mention they have a magic tree?
Cagbalete is a 1,640 hectare island home to pristine beach and sandbar with diverse ecosystem. It is located in Mauban Quezon, a 5-hour bus ride from Manila and just an hour trip from Lucena. We rented a jeep and left Lucena arounf 4:30 am. When I was about 4 or 5 years old, I remember tagging along with my father during his trips within Quezon province. I know I've been to Mauban several times but can't seem to recall anyone mentioning white beach and fine sand.
It was a bit foggy on our way to Mauban which came as a surprise as I'd only get to experience that in Baguio or Bicol. Mauban is a tranquil, little town known for old houses and simplicity. People here are warm and hospitable.
We reached the port about 6:00 am and was welcomed by the beautiful sunrise. Photos can not do justice to the beauty of the sun as it breaks the dawn, gradually shedding light to anything within its reach.
After half an hour and post registration, we were then taken to the ferry. As it's way early to board a public boat schedule is at 10:00 am and last trip is at 3:00 pm ), we decided to rent a private boat instead. More information on rates and boat schedule on this link ( How To Get There )
After 45 minutes and a lot of boat photos later, we reached the beautiful and serene resort of Nilandingan Cove
"Protected by Mangroves on both the left and right sides of the beach, Nilandingan is one of the most private and secluded spots of Cagbalete Island.
Known in the early 1900's as the place where locals made boats for seafaring, it got its name Nilandingan (pronounced as Neelan-DEE-ngan) when a submarine apparently found its way there before.
Home to the last few untouched mini-forests in Cagbalete Island, Nilandingan Cove also has some of the largest and oldest standing trees, a swamp where you can witness "Lambanog" being made from the extracts of the Sasa plant, a fishpond where you can catch uncultured fish and other marine life, explore the Mangrove Forests, watch the flying fish glide beside your boat, see the underwater landscape through its crystal clear waters, watch fireflies flutter around your bed at night and hear the monkeys jumping from tree to tree under the moonlight. Not to mention, the Sunrise which would probably land itself among the top places to view it in the country."
To make the most of out this trip, we decided to get the island hopping package. It's priced at 150php/head. Our first stop was the Yang -in Sandbar. It is best to come here between 12nn-4pm as this beauty is only visible during low tide. The water is waist deep and the long stretch is visible which serves as a perfect backdrop for those IG-worthy snapshots.While you're here do not forget to do your barkada jump shots or the run-splash-water shot ( like what we did ).
Nilandingan is the only resort with a Magic Tree. Now, don't get too excited because I am not speaking literally. It's referred to as a Magic Tree as locals believe that as it is secluded from all the mangroves, if you wholeheartedly whisper your wish, it might just come true. An old folklore, but I'll leave it you guys should want to give it a try. I did quite the opposite and climbed it like a true blue probinsyana. Thanks to my childhood years of climbing mango trees and alatires, this sure is just an easy feat.
It was bittersweet to say goodbye to Cagbalete. It certainly is one of the roads less traveled but undoubtedly one of the most rewarding. So take a detour from your usual weekend road trips and head south. Feast your eyes and blow your mind in the serenity and beauty Cagbalete island has to offer.
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