Catanduanes, the Land of the Howling Winds 

Catanduanes is known as the "Land of the Howling Winds" because most typhoons brewed in the Pacific pass through this easternmost island province of Luzon. But on better days, pack your bags and explore this rugged adventure island.

Here are the top 6 adventures in Catanduanes:

1. Visit the PAGASA-DOST Weather Radar Station

Enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay and islets from the weather station that is usually the first to detect typhoons entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility. The meteorological system is a grant aid from the Japanese government as a token of friendship and cooperation between Japan and the Philippines.

2. Go back in time at Bato Church 

Also known as the St. John the Baptist Church, the century old church built  from 1830-1883 from coral stones, lies on small hill facing the Bato River. It has stood the test of time and weathered countless typhoons and earthquakes. 

 

3. Take a dip at Maribina Falls

The water descends from about 5 meters height into a small pool  then cascades into the rocks then to another pool. Named after Barangays Marinawa and Binanwahan, Maribina Falls is popular to local tourists and picnickers because of the surrounding cool, lush vegetation. 

4. Beach bumming and surfing at Puraran Beach 

Because of the fierce majestic waves brought by the Pacific, wave riders from all over converge in this surfers haven especially during the peak months of August to September.  But for the non-surfers, the wide and uncrowded beach area in addition to the cream fine sand and clear waters are more than enough to seduce you to bathe in the sun. 

5. Cliff diving, wall climbing and zip lining  and kayaking at Twin Rock Beach Resort

I would say the best accommodation in Virac, Catanduanes, Twin Rock Beach Resort offers very affordable rates for wall climbing, zip lining and kayaking. You may just relax by the cream sand beach or pump your adrenaline by jumping off a diving board on the rocks.


6. Ride a boat to Caramoan Islands 

I think the best and most convenient way of going to the Caramoan Islands is via Catanduanes. Caramoan Islands, popularized by the Survivor series ,is only less than an hour away by boat from Codon Port unlike the more popular routes from Naga where you have to travel by land, by water, then by land and water again before reaching the Survivor castaways. 

How to get there?

1. Via Plane ( Manila- Virac, Catanduanes)

2. Via Plane (Manila-Legaspi, Albay ) and Ferry (Tabaco, Albay-Catanduanes)

3. Via Bus (Manila- Albay) and Ferry (Tabaco, Albay-Catanduanes)

Diovanie De Jesus is a researcher at the Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman. As a member of the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines and Save Philippine Seas, De Jesus is an advocate of wildlife conservation and environmental protection in the Philippines. He also organizes Project Lingap, an “adventure with a heart” to reach remote places in the Philippines as well as reach out to the communities in need. He is also behind the viral turtle photo bomber.  You can follow his chronicles about adventure, nature and culture at www.adventuresnikulot.wordpress.com.