B-A-T-A-N-E-S, The Beautiful

           Sharing with you my 5day trip to the beautiful islands of Batanes. It was my first time to go solo on a travel and yesss! I did it! Booked a flight in PAL going to Basco. Actually, I don't have any plans of going to Batanes coz it’s too expensive, but when I unintentionally checked the fares going to Basco and see it to myself that it’s too affordable. I didn’t think twice. I booked it right away. It was supposed to be a birthday gift for myself (October 2016) and sadly for unexpected event, I need to rebook my flight (May 2017) coz Batanes was hit by a storm last Sept 2016. Get a tour package from Bisumi. 3day tour for North and South Batan and Sabtang Island. I wanted it to be a hassle free travel since it’s my first time to go solo. Madalas po kasi ako naliligaw.  

Let’s start with different beautiful spots in the area.

1. Valugan Boulder Beach

    

A few meters away from the town proper of Basco. Will took you 10-15 minute tricy ride. It’s not your typical kind of beach with fine white sand and crystal clear water. A beach with different sizes and natural boulders instead. It is called "Valugan" which means "east" in Ivatan laguage Swimming in the area is prohibited because of the waves. 

       You can try the stone art of balancing there coz that’s what I did. According to Kuya DeeJay (tourguide) you can make a wish after you can make it stand for a few or more minutes. Well, I am not so sure if it’s true. You've got nothin' much to do but to enjoy the beach plus the rolling hills and cliffs nearby 

2. Vayang Rolling Hills

 

       Another spot in Basco that you shouldn't miss. A perfect place to catch the sunset and after sun burst. An amazing picturesque meadow on the western part of Basco. Also a wide pasture land owned by local farmers.

3. Basco Lighthouse

         Standing beautifully in Naidi Hills. You can reach this lighthouse with about 1.2km walk from the Port of Basco or just a 5-10 tricy ride from Basco proper This was first lit in 2003 and you can climb through spiral stairs, no entrance fee and enjoy the 360 view and peace a place could give. A well maintained lighthouse that works among the three, one in Sabtang and the other is Tayid Lighthouse.

4. House of Dakay

     This is known to be the oldest house located in the town of San Jose de Ivana, Batan, Batanes. The walls of the house is made of very thick stones that makes the house stand all throughout the storms. This old stone house is known to be as heritage of Batanes. You can't find this elsewhere in the Philippines but only in Ivana, Batanes.
5. Savidug Stone Houses

         These are almost identical stone houses located in Sabtang, the smallest in the 3 major islands of Batanes. Itbayat and Batan are the others. Stones are solid and cogon roofs are intact. Stands firm and sure that it can withstand the storm and not be blown by strong wind easily. 
6. Marlboro Hills: Racuh a Payaman

     Of all breathtaking spots is Batanes,this one is my favorite. With the view of the sea splashing through the shore, plus the truly alive hills of green grass and the majestic view of Mt. Iraya.  The locals call it as - Racuh a Payaman and the tourist call it as - Marlboro Country. Can't say more! Just perfectly beautiful!

       I can see clearly the Tayid Lighthouse that stands in the opposite hill that competes for attention too.

8. Mt. Iraya - Batanes

     My Batanes travel wouldn't be more exciting without reaching the summit of the highest mountain in town. Because of it's 1000+ meters above sea level high, i could saw it everywhere. Just outside my hotel, in other beautiful spots in the area and even in Sabtang, the 30min boat transfer island from Batan. I got a friend with me during our hike. He arrived just few days before my flight going back to Manila. He's actually from Itbayat, Batanes. Only the three of us went to climb. Me, my friend and tatay guide. We agreed to finish the climb as soon as possible so we can still enjoy the Basco proper after the climb. We started the hike by 9am in the morning, reach the shoulders at 11:30am have lunch for 30mins and hits the summit at 12:45. We stayed for about 15 mins in the summit. it's cold and we are freezing coz it's raining all through out the climb. Not so blessed with clear Basco view. Started to descend by 1pm then reach the jump off at 4pm. Not too bad. Must always be ready for whatever the weather may give you. Very unpredictable weather in Batanes though.

8. Chamantad View Point

      A famous viewing spot located in Chavayan, Sabtang, Batanes. You can walked through the grassy slopes going to the view point and embrace the perfect panoramic view of Chamantad Cove.

9.  Alapad Rock Formation

        A spot that you should not miss during your Batanes travel. It is located in Uyugan, South Batan, Batanes. Where two rocks sliced and in the middle by the road.  
10. Honesty Coffee Shop

This store is too small for dishonest people.Owned by Jose and Elena Gabilo. This unique cafe is located in Ivana, Batanes. What makes this shop unique? No one look after the goods being sold. Every costumer can move freely in the store that's why everyone is expected to be honest. There's a logbook where you can list down the items you bought and you can drop your payment in the box.

Where to stay in Batanes?
Where to Eat in Batanes? My Actual Expenses - Batanes

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