A trusted Philippine travel blog with detailed guides, hidden gems, and cultural stories from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s 82 provinces.
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Mt. Batulao, located in Nasugbu, Batangas, is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Metro Manila. Known for its picturesque rolling hills, golden grasslands, and beginner-friendly terrain, it attracts hikers, campers, and weekend adventurers all year round. Mt. Batulao features both the Old Trail and the New Trail, each offering stunning viewpoints and refreshing mountain breeze.
Jump to: | About Taal Basilica | History | Architecture | How to Get There | Things to Do Nearby | Itinerary | Travel Tips | Related Posts
The Basilica of St. Martin de Tours, more popularly known as Taal Basilica, stands as one of the most impressive and historically significant churches in the Philippines. Located in Taal Town, Batangas, this magnificent baroque structure dominates the town’s skyline — its grandeur a testament to the devotion and artistry of the Filipino people. Recognized as the largest Catholic church in Asia, it has become a pilgrimage site, a symbol of heritage, and a must-visit landmark for travelers exploring Southern Luzon.
Located in Nasugbu, Batangas, Mt. Talamitam stands at around 630 meters above sea level and is one of the most accessible hiking destinations near Metro Manila. Known for its grassy slopes and scenic ridgelines, the mountain offers panoramic views of Mt. Batulao, Mt. Pico de Loro, and the South Luzon countryside. Its open terrain makes it a favorite for both beginner and seasoned hikers looking for a quick yet satisfying day adventure.
Mt. Maculot, located in Cuenca, Batangas, is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Southern Luzon. Rising at 930 meters above sea level, it offers a breathtaking view of Taal Lake and the surrounding Batangas countryside. Known for its iconic Rockies — a scenic cliffside viewpoint — Mt. Maculot provides a rewarding experience for both beginners and seasoned hikers. With well-established trails, cool mountain breeze, and picture-perfect scenery, it’s no wonder Mt. Maculot remains a favorite weekend escape for adventurers seeking nature, challenge, and peace all in one climb.
Jump to: About Batangas | How to Get There | Top Tourist Spots | Best Beaches | Sample Itinerary | Travel Tips
Batangas is a province in Southern Luzon, just a few hours from Metro Manila. Known for its white-sand beaches, diving spots, mountains, and heritage towns, Batangas is perfect for weekend getaways, family trips, or solo adventures. It's also home to the famous Taal Volcano and ancestral churches like Taal Basilica. Not only that, the Batangueños are naturally born cooks, so expect sumptuous delicacies in different parts of the province.
Mt. Gulugod Baboy in Mabini, Batangas, is one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes near Metro Manila. Known for its rolling hills, scenic coastal views, and proximity to the diving haven of Anilao, this beginner-friendly mountain offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Its grassy slopes and panoramic vistas of Batangas Bay and Maricaban Island make it a favorite weekend destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.
Located along the coast of Calatagan, Batangas, Manuel Uy Beach Resort is a favorite destination for campers and beach lovers seeking a raw and unspoiled escape. With its wide shoreline, clear waters, and picturesque sunsets, this open beach resort offers the perfect spot to pitch a tent, relax by the sea, and reconnect with nature.
Located in the coastal town of Calatagan, Batangas, Burot Beach is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its creamy sand, calm waters, and relaxing atmosphere. Known for its raw and unspoiled charm, the beach is perfect for campers, backpackers, and travelers looking for a peaceful seaside escape close to Manila.
Situated in San Juan, Batangas, Mt. Daguldol is a favorite hiking destination for its unique blend of mountain and sea. The trail offers a refreshing mix of coastal views, lush forests, gentle slopes, and rolling grasslands, making it a beginner-friendly climb that’s equally rewarding for seasoned hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass by friendly communities, small sari-sari stores, and even refreshing stopovers where locals sell halo-halo or buko juice, making the journey as delightful as the destination.
Mt. Manabu, short for Mataas na Bundok, is located in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. With an elevation of about 760 meters above sea level, it is one of the easiest hikes in the province and a popular choice for beginners. The mountain is famous for its Stations of the Cross trail, a giant white cross at the summit, and the warm hospitality of locals who offer hikers a taste of Batangas’ signature kapeng barako.
Rising majestically in the town of Lipa, Batangas, Mt. Malipunyo is an adventure that challenges both the body and spirit. Known for its steep trails, mossy forests, and multiple river crossings, this mountain is a thrilling climb for seasoned hikers seeking a rugged and raw outdoor experience. At the summit, adventurers are rewarded with sweeping views of Mt. Maculot, Mt. Makiling, and the rolling landscapes of Southern Luzon, making the trek worth every step.
Located in Lobo, Batangas, Mt. Tibig is a small yet rewarding hiking destination that offers breathtaking views without the need for a long or grueling trek. Known for its grassy slopes, scenic ridges, and occasional sea of clouds, Mt. Tibig is perfect for beginners and casual adventurers looking for a quick escape into nature. Its summit provides a panoramic view of Balayan Bay and nearby mountains, making it a favorite side-trip for hikers exploring Southern Luzon.
Mt. Batulao, located in Nasugbu, Batangas, is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Manila, loved by beginners and seasoned hikers alike. With its scenic rolling slopes, panoramic views of Batangas and Cavite, and trails that offer just the right balance of challenge and adventure, it has become a favorite weekend escape for nature lovers. Whether you’re after the sunrise, the cool breeze, or the thrill of conquering its peaks, Mt. Batulao promises an unforgettable hiking experience.
Our original plan was Mt. Maculot, but two days before the climb, it was changed to Mt. Talamitam in Nasugbu, Batangas. Night trekking was certainly full of fun since there was no problem with the harmful UV rays. Talamitam is covered with cogon grass and shrubs; no hardwood or trees that can protect the hikers from the sun's rays. Its highest point measures 630+ MASL with a gorgeous ambiance on top. There's a one-meter assault to the summit, which added an amazing adventure to the hikers. Mt. Batulao and Mt. Pico de Loro were just two of the well-known mountains nearby.
