Behold Bohol! Touring the island “gem of the Philippines”
Considering a destination with a difference for this year’s dream getaway? Then the beautiful Island Province of Bohol should be high on your list.
Located at the heart of the Central Visayas island group, the province of Bohol is the 10th largest island in the Philippines and consists of an oval-shaped mainland surrounded by 72 smaller islands. But those are just statistics… the real story is in the extraordinary natural wonders, rich history and enchanting surprises found around every turn.
Bohol is a tropical paradise outlined by white sand beaches, romantic coves and boasting an abundance of hiking and biking trails, river cruises, eco-adventures and resorts that aim to please the most discerning traveller. For underwater enthusiasts, the small isles of Panglao, Cabilao, Mahinay and Lapinpin are outstanding spots for diving and snorkelling.
The capital of Bohol in the southwestern part of the province is Tagbilaran City – known as the “City of Friendship.” A heavenly atmosphere prevails here amid lush tree-lined plazas and historic stone buildings – including a church built by the Jesuits in the 18th century.
Getting to Bohol is a breeze. Fly into Tagbilaran airport from the national capital of Manila or the regional capital of Cebu, or catch the ferry from Cebu. Once you arrive, time will cease to exist. Just breathe deeply, give in to your senses and as the Island Tourism Office says: “Behold Bohol!” tourism.bohol.gov.ph
Chocolate, anyone?
Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills — an undulating landscape of conical mounds that are remnants of coral reefs left behind during the Ice Age. About 1,776 of these formations are located throughout the towns of Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan. In the summer dry season, the grass-covered hills turn brown, earning their affectionate nickname ‘the Chocolate Hills’ and making them one of the most visited destinations on Bohol.
More panoramic views astound visitors at Alicia Panoramic Park. The Binabaje Hills of Brgy, which rise to 400 meters above sea level, are composed of metamorphic rock but carpeted in tropical perennial grasses known as Cogon that give them a soft and fuzzy appearance. Ridge trails over the hills let hikers meander through the tall, swaying grasses, absorbed in a wonderland of green.
Experience the Sandugo Festival
Every July, Bohol celebrates Sandugo Festival – a month-long festival honouring the Blood Compact (or Sandugo) between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, an important Philippine historic event that took place in Bohol. This lively, colourful event features an agro-industrial fair, cultural and historical showcase, sports, a beauty pageant, balls and dances, entertainment shows, and street dancing. The festival ends with the re-enactment of the blood compact. Unforgettable!
Lots to Love in Loboc
About 25 km east of Tagbilaran City, the charming town of Loboc has a lot to show you! A river cruise along the scenic Loboc River is a must-do activity. Keep your camera busy with the lush greenery, waterfalls and floating restaurants while being entertained by local performers. Then pay a visit to historic Loboc Church – one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, known for its beautiful frescoes and carvings.
Loboc is known for its unique cuisine, including exotic delicacies like balut, fried crickets and banana blossoms. There are plenty of food stalls and restaurants where you can sample these dishes and much more. When you’ve had your fill of tasty treats, the Loboc Eco-Tourism Adventure Park offers great outdoor activities like zip-lining, cable cars and rope courses to bring out your adventurous spirit.
Uniquely Buenavista – Cambuhat River and Oyster Farm
Experience a tranquil paddle ride on an outrigger boat in the midst of mangroves, tropical palms and vines representing the river’s unique habitat. Along the journey, feast on a sumptuous meal of oysters and quench your thirst with fresh buko juice and local delicacies. Watch oyster farming using the raft method along the river and try your hand at harvesting the tastiest oyster. Yum!
Luxury R & R
When it’s time to relax and reboot, Panglao Island’s Alona Beach in the southwest of the province beckons. Panglao Island is actually a nature reserve reached by road bridge from Bohol. Famous for its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, Alona Beach is where most of the island’s luxury resorts, beachfront resorts, glamping resorts, Bohol restaurants and bars are found. The biggest beach resort in Panglao Island, Henann Resort sits on a delightful 6.5 hectare property on the pristine shores of Alona Beach. Artfully designed structures and warm, open spaces welcome you to begin your most unforgettable Bohol trip.
An eco experience to remember
A great provincial point of pride, Bohol Island Geopark is the Philippines’ first aspiring UNESCO Geopark. Among its treasures, many scenic waterfalls and caves are ready to explore around the island. Can-umantad Falls, the tallest waterfall in Bohol at 60 feet high, is just one of those incredible sights.
Beyond cute!
Prepare to have a tug at your heart strings when you catch a glimpse of the adorable Philippine tarsier monkey — one of the world’s smallest primates and a Bohol native. Their eyes are so big and yet tarsiers grow to be just 15 centimeters long at most! You don’t want to miss a visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc or the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella. These tarsier sanctuaries allow tourists to see the tiny creatures up close and also learn what they’re all about.
Now that you’ve seen a broad slice of island life to tempt your travelling appetite, you’re bound to agree that Bohol is a fantastic vacation choice, no matter what’s on your wish list.
