Sorsogon used to be this shy and unknown sister of Albay. However, because of Heart Evangelista and Chiz Escudero, my dear home province is now a booming tourist attraction. It has all the potentials to be the next prime destinations in the Philippines. Albay is the older and more famous than Sorsogon that needs no introduction. I invite you all to see Sorsogon's best travel destinations while also revisiting the mighty Albay.
This three-day Bicol itinerary from Jorge Ravanera Jr. will take you to picturesque beaches and lakes to the ancient ruins and historic churches.
DAY 1 - SORSOGON
Your adventure begins bright and early at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, where you'll take a flight to Bicol International Airport. From there, you can ride an airport shuttle to Daraga Municipal and take a van bound to Sorsogon City, which should take about two hours.
Airport shuttle fee: Php 120
Van fare Daraga to Sorsogon City: Php 120
1st stop: Sorsogon Provincial Capitol, Sorsogon City
Sorsogon Provincial Capitol is the official office of the local government. The reining Governor is the highest public servant in title works here. Built in 1916, this neoclassical architectural building was designed by Architect William Parsons during the term of Governor Victor Eco Afterward.
Sorsogon Provincial Capitol entrance fee: FREE (you can't go inside because this is a public office) You can be allowed in designated areas for visitors).
Sorsogon Provincial Capitol fare via tricycle: Php 15 only
2nd stop: Lola Sayong Surf Camp, Gubat
Lola Sayong's Surf Camp: Php 20
Lola Sayong's Surf Camp Surfing Lesson for 1 hour: PHP 300 if you have not availed the overnight stay
3rd stop: Old Barcelona Church and Ruins, Barcelona
Old Barcelona Church is the oldest Catholic church in Sorsogon province. The Barcelona Ruins in the park are divided into two: school building ruins in the south and Presidencia building ruins in the north.
4th stop: Bulusan Lake, Bulusan
Bulusan Lake entrance fee: Php 50
Shuttle service back and forth: Php 35
5th stop: San Benon Mateo Hot and Cold Spring Resort, Irosin
Irosin is the only town in Sorsogon that is surrounded by lands entirely so there is no beach here. The pride of Irosin are natural hot springs. The warm water that comes from Mount Bulusan is said to be therapeutic.
San Benon Mateo Hot & Cold Spring Resort is one of the oldest resorts in Irosin that has two pools with warm water coming from hot springs. The only thing here is this place which is as old as time looks so not enticing to take photo of. That could be the reason why Jorge wasn't able to snap one inside.
DAY 2 - SORSOGON + ALBAY
Early check out at San Benon Mateo Hot & Cold Spring.
OPTIONAL: Take a short walk to Modesta Resort, one of the most Instagrammable resorts in Irosin. This Bali-inspired swimming destination in Irosin would certainly give you photos to drool after. Then take a jeepney to SM City Sorsogon where SITEX is located. Find the van bound to Daraga in Albay. Check-in at Casa Bicolandia Suites then freshen up. Tip: this hotel is pet-friendly and offers FREE breakfast. You can bring your potty-trained, well-behaved and fully-vaccinated furbaby with you here without any additional charge. You may click HERE to read my blog review of our stay in Casa Bicolandia Suites.
BOOK your stay at Casa Bicolandia Suites HERE
1st stop: Farm Plate, Albay
Farm Plate is home to the smallest chapel in the Philippines. In a nutshell, Farm Plate showcases the hacienda life where you have all the physical possessions that all of your neighbor would be envy for.
2nd stop: Cagsawa Ruins
When Mayon Volcano erupted in 18th century, the stone church that time was destroyed including the 1, 000+ people who seek refuge inside. What survived was the tower of the church now half buried under ground is now called Cagsawa Ruins. Tip: you may also drop by to nearby tourist attractions in Albay which are Daraga Church and Lignon Hills Park.
BOOK YOUR CAGSAWA RUINS TOUR PACKAGE HERE
3rd stop: Sumlang Lake
4th stop: Quitinday Hills, Camalig
Quitinday Green Hills is the "Chocolate Hills of Bicol." It is located in Camalig occupying 400 hectares. Here, you get unobstructed view of Mount Mayon in the background too.
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