Albay was a breathtaking mix of adventure and serenity. The looming presence of Mayon Volcano made every moment feel epic, whether I was cruising on an ATV around its base or just soaking in its beauty from afar. The history at Cagsawa Ruins hit hard, a reminder of the region’s past volcanic eruptions. Daraga Church offered quiet reflection, while Lignon Hill delivered stunning views and a bit of adrenaline. Sumlang Lake, with its peaceful bamboo rafts and perfect Mayon backdrop, was a highlight. Albay felt like a place where adventure and nature collided in the best way possible.
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What is Albay?
Albay, located in the Bicol region of the Philippines, is a province blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Mayon Volcano. Known for its lush greenery, rich cultural heritage, and the warmth of its people, Albay is a destination that offers more than just scenic beauty—it’s an experience for the adventurous heart.
As a moto rider, cruising through the winding roads with Mayon in the background is something I won’t forget anytime soon. The province is a mix of rural charm and urban conveniences, offering a unique blend that makes it perfect for all kinds of travelers.
Top Things to Do in Albay
Visit Mayon Volcano
The perfect cone-shaped volcano is Albay’s crown jewel. As a rider, the thrill of getting closer to Mayon’s natural beauty is incomparable. I took a scenic ride around the base, stopping by a few vantage points to take in its grandeur.
Cagsawa Ruins
If you’re into history like me, the Cagsawa Ruins should be on your list. The old church, partly buried from a past eruption, serves as a haunting yet beautiful reminder of Mayon’s power.
Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave
Riding to this cave gave me the perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure. The winding roads leading to this mystical cave were a rider’s dream.
Daraga Church
Known for its beautiful baroque architecture, I made a quick stop here for some photos. The ride up to the church was peaceful, offering a great view of the surrounding areas.
Embarcadero de Legazpi
For a more urban experience, I stopped by Embarcadero de Legazpi. It’s a waterfront promenade, ideal for unwinding after a long ride.
Quick Facts About Albay
Location: Bicol Region, Southern Luzon
Famous For: Mayon Volcano, rich history, local Bicolano cuisine
Language: Bicolano, Filipino, English
Known Delicacies: Bicol Express, Laing, Pinangat
How to Get There
The most common way to reach Albay is by bus, car, or motorbike if you’re up for a long ride. Albay is around 10-12 hours away from Manila by land, but as a moto enthusiast, the trip is half the fun.
By Bus: Multiple bus lines offer trips to Legazpi City from various terminals in Manila.
By Private Car/Motorbike: For riders like me, the trip is an adventure in itself. I recommend taking the route via the Maharlika Highway (Pan-Philippine Highway) for scenic views along the way.
Manila to Albay: The Best Way to Travel
If you’re not in a rush and enjoy riding, a motorbike is hands down the best way to travel from Manila to Albay. The freedom to stop whenever you like to take in the sights along the way adds to the experience. However, for convenience, you can also opt for a direct bus ride, which is more comfortable for non-riders.
Getting Around the Province of Albay
Once in Albay, getting around is easy with a motorbike. For travelers who aren’t riding, jeepneys and tricycles are widely available. But for the ultimate adventure, renting a motorbike is my top recommendation. The roads are mostly well-maintained, and the views make every ride worthwhile.
The Best Time to Visit Albay
The best time to visit Albay is from November to March, during the dry season. I visited in December, and the weather was perfect for riding—cool and dry, with clear views of Mayon.
3-Day Staycation Itinerary
(Booked through Bicolandia Travel and Tours)
Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration
- Morning: Arrive in Legazpi City
- Afternoon: Visit Embarcadero de Legazpi for lunch
- Evening: Check-in at your hotel and relax
Day 2: Historical and Natural Wonders
- Morning: Tour Cagsawa Ruins and Daraga Church
- Afternoon: Explore Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave
- Evening: Sunset view at Mayon Skyline View Deck
Day 3: Adventure Day
- Morning: ATV ride near Mayon Volcano
- Afternoon: Relax at a local café or try authentic Bicolano dishes
- Evening: Departure
Top Tourist Spots in Albay
1. Mayon Volcano
Description: Known for its perfect cone shape, Mayon Volcano is the most iconic landmark of Albay. It stands majestically at 2,462 meters and is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. It’s a dream spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Activities: Trekking, ATV rides, camping, sightseeing.
2. Cagsawa Ruins
Description: The Cagsawa Ruins are remnants of a church destroyed during Mayon’s violent eruption in 1814. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of nature, with the bell tower of the church standing as a symbol of resilience.
Activities: Photography, historical exploration, picnics.
3. Daraga Church
Description: Daraga Church, also known as Our Lady of the Gate Parish, is a beautiful baroque-style church that offers stunning views of Mayon Volcano. Built in the 18th century, it is a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines.
Activities: Church visits, photography, historical tours.
4. Lignon Hill Nature Park
Description: This hill offers panoramic views of the city and Mayon Volcano. The park also has various adventure activities, making it a popular destination for those looking to combine nature and fun.
Activities: Ziplining, trekking, viewing decks, sunset watching.
5. Vera Falls
Description: Nestled in the lush greenery of Malinao, Vera Falls is a hidden gem with cool waters cascading down into a natural pool. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers seeking some peace and tranquility.
Activities: Swimming, hiking, nature photography.
6. Embarcadero de Legazpi
Description: A waterfront lifestyle hub in Legazpi City, Embarcadero offers shops, restaurants, and various recreational activities. It’s a great place to relax after a day of adventure.
Activities: Dining, shopping, water sports.
7. Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave
Description: This cave system, which means “blow-blow” due to the breeze felt inside, has intricate limestone formations and is believed to have been inhabited by early humans. It’s a unique blend of natural wonder and history.
Activities: Cave exploration, spelunking.
8. Kawa-Kawa Hill
Description: Known as the “hill without a hilltop,” Kawa-Kawa Hill features a crater-like depression at the top, resembling a giant cauldron (“kawa”). It’s a pilgrimage site with life-sized Stations of the Cross.
Activities: Hiking, religious pilgrimage, nature walking.
9. Sumlang Lake
Description: A peaceful lake with an enchanting view of Mayon Volcano in the background. You can relax on floating bamboo rafts and take in the serene surroundings.
Activities: Bamboo rafting, fishing, sightseeing.
10. Japanese Tunnels
Description: These tunnels were used by Japanese soldiers during World War II. The tunnels are an intriguing piece of Albay’s wartime history, with some still open for exploration today.
Activities: Historical tours, guided exploration.
11. Quitinday Hills
Description: Often compared to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Quitinday Hills offer rolling green hills that provide a scenic view of the countryside. It’s a fantastic spot for hiking and photography.
Activities: Hiking, nature photography, sightseeing.
12. Busay Falls
Description: A multi-tiered waterfall located in Malilipot, Albay, Busay Falls is a refreshing retreat for those who love nature. It has several levels of cascades, making it a great spot for swimming and relaxation.
Activities: Swimming, trekking, picnics.
13. Kapuntukan Hill (Sleeping Lion Hill)
Description: Kapuntukan Hill is often referred to as the “Sleeping Lion Hill” because of its shape. It offers panoramic views of Legazpi City and Mayon Volcano and is a great spot for short hikes.
Activities: Hiking, sightseeing, photography.
