Fresh air. Pleasant, lush surroundings. Placid, beautiful landscapes that are perfect for persons seeking relaxation. At first glance, one seems to be in Batanes. But did you know that this chunk of paradise is close by? It is in Miag-ao, Iloilo.

The place can be reached in about an hour’s trip from the town proper. Visitors need not look elsewhere because of the beautiful vista offered here, according to tourists.

Scaling up the peak may be challenging to some guests, but one loses memory of all exhaustion upon reaching the top which offers 360 degrees vista.

The area used to be unnoticed, as visitors only pass by to get to “Tinagong Dagat” (lake situated in a forested area of Barangay Ongyod). However, when the area has started seemingly to unravel its beauty, the place becomes a must-go-to destination.

“Pumunta kayo dito sa aming tourist spot upang ma-experience nyo ang magandang paligid. At kung nasa taas ka na, makikita mo ang mga magagandang views sa baba,” Barangay Tigmalapad Councilwoman Ferly Manadero urged tourists.

Joemel Elgario, a visitor, has chosen to bring his family in the area to relax. He said the place is perfect for mental well-being.

“Pagdating ko dito, nare-relax talaga ako. Stress reliever,” Elgario said.

Residents in Panay Island need not go far to experience “Batanes feels” as nature has unwrapped herself comely like a Christmas present to residents.

Before embarking on a journey far away from home, residents may look closely as there are exciting destinations just a stone’s throw away offering most sought-after resplendence.