Albay Travel Guide: All You Need To Know About This Province In The Philippines

Welcome to Albany , home of the famous Mayon volcano . This volcano is famous for its perfectly symmetrical conical horse, which can compete with Mount Fuji. But if you thought this was the only interesting thing in this Philippine country, think again. We have developed a useful travel guide that covers all of Alba’s tourist attractions (large and small) as well as everything you need to know before and during your trip.

Common area:

If you look at a map of Albay, you’ll notice that most cities in the city have a “piece of cake” that is Mayon Vulcano (see photo above). So you can expect to see this amazing view in almost every tourist spot you visit in Alba. By reading further, you will learn where you can get the best view of the most active volcano in the Philippines.

The best places to visit in Alba

You should visit all the famous tourist places in Alba, especially if you are new.

1. Legospi

Passengers arriving from Legospi Airport are advised to make the first stop on Legospi Street . If you can, visit this coastal trail early in the morning to watch the sunrise overlooking Mayon Volcano and its bright lake. You will find many townspeople participating in various fitness activities such as jogging, cycling and even zumba. On the lake itself there are also life-size letters with the inscription "Legazpi", if you want this to be the main tourist photo.

Kagsava Ruins Park:

Located in Daragan, the Kagsaw Ruins Park is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in Alba. Every student in the Philippines will surely learn about this from their history textbooks, especially from the magnificent Mayon volcano at the back of the Kagsawa Church tower . So what happened in the lower half of the church, you ask?

By 1814, a volcanic eruption had ended in the village of Kaisava, burying the area and killing about 2,000 people. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated to the church as it is not the best place to seek refuge as it is just 11 kilometers from the volcano. Yes, there are some ghost stories about this place that you can ask the locals.

Read! Kagsa's garbage thrives under COVID-19

Mayon Volcanoes National Park:

Want a closer look at Mayon Volcano behind the ruins of Cagsaw? So head to Mayon National Park . Funny event. Since 2015, it has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Choose ATVs or jeeps to explore the landscape, from paddy fields to streams and rivers.

Feel more adventurous. You can also walk to the base of the volcano, but be sure to check the travel instructions before the trip. After all, it is an active volcano. You will also probably see smoke detectors sticking out from above. If it’s not a great show, we don’t know what is.

Read! What if the Philippines had its “seven natural wonders”?

4. Lake Sumlang

Meanwhile, Lake Sumlang is in Kamalig . Like the previous points, this view offers a harmless view of the Mayon volcano. Is it really new? And no one has noticed them for decades, as lilies have covered most of the water since the first impurity. However, thanks to the joint efforts of locals, it has eventually become an indispensable attraction.

Although swimming is prohibited due to the dark waters, you can still relax at this tourist spot in Alba. Spend the evening sailing on a bamboo ferry, gazing at the magnificent scenery of Mayon. You can also rent a paddle or sailboat if you want to take a look at the tour. There are also beautiful handmade chairs and works of art that match your travel photos.

5. Daraga Church

Be sure to visit the Church of the Expensive , built by Franciscan missionaries in 1772 in Alba. This 19th-century Baroque church is set on a small hill with a volcanic stone wall, façade and belfry. In addition, some parts of the church have been declared the National Cultural Treasure of the National Museum of the Philippines . Its original name was the Church of the Mother of God of Parterre.

6. Lignon Hill Nature Park

Sports Park L Ligñon Hill Albay Nature Park is the perfect place for you. The Mayon Hotel offers magnificent views of the volcano as well as the city of Lower Legospi . Here you can choose from a range of entertainment activities such as hiking, ice skating, rap or suspension bridge. You can also see the historic tunnel used by Japanese troops in World War II.

Read! 10 world-class islands that are loved by travelers in the Philippines

Alba's visit

Away from the usual views of Maya Volcano, here are a few places to visit in Albany that are happily still on your radar!

7. Quitinday Hills:

You may have heard of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, but did you know that Kamalige is so amazing? It would be Quitinday Hills , which occupies about 400 acres and has no such hills at all. This really beautiful scene ends behind Mayon Volcano, of course. This resort in Alba is also called “Pili Gat Hills” because it is one of the best peanut butter products in the Bicol region .

8. Jeweler underground river

Whether the famous Puerto Princesa River is an underground river in Palawan, you’ll be amazed to find Albany here. Half an hour’s drive from Quitinday Hills to Jovellar is another hidden gem, the underground place of Jovellar . Sure, it’s not as big as Palawan, but it’s surprisingly unique.

Take a bamboo ferry that will take you to a cave about 150 meters away. Inside you will find stalagmites, stalactites, columns and other impressive rock formations. When you get to the end, you will find the underground waterfall Sigp where you can dive. If you feel brave, you can dive with a makeshift rocking chair here.

9. Albay Farmers Bounty Village:

Head to Albay Farmers Bounty Village to view the rocky view. Here you will find a bright floral maze against the stunning backdrop of Mayon volcano in the horizon of coconut palms. The recently expanded agricultural area also includes a bee farm and a dairy farm where you can buy useful souvenirs. It was built to be the only window for anyone interested in agriculture, from farmers to growers, students and enthusiasts.

10. Rapu-Rapu

Most travelers often head to Mississippi Bay or Sorsogo in search of beautiful beaches for fun. But here’s a hidden tourist spot in Alba that you may not know: Rapu-Rapu Island . There are many island towns with remote coastlines where you can enjoy the sun of a tranquil tropical setting.

Some of the islands that are a must visit are the Bataan Islands in Guinea . The first is perfect for scuba diving and diving, and the second has caves and waterfalls that you can explore near the beach. Among the walks around the island be sure to try the delicious fresh seafood and refreshing coconut juice.

Read! 15 things you can do in the Philippines that some locals don’t know about.

How to navigate and explore these places in Alba

A good idea would be to rent a car or truck to explore Alba’s attractions. It also allows you to make a more flexible route and you can seek the advice of a local driver. However, if you are traveling on a limited budget, public transportation is very convenient. This is especially true in Legospi, which is the capital, so of course there are many options such as taxis, jeeps, UV Express trucks and tricycles.

For other towns and villages you can jump from one area to another by bus, jeep or tricycle. And if you are wondering which option is the cheapest, there are definitely jeeps. Be sure to think of certain ways, plan ahead.

The best places to eat

Of course, it can be a little boring to feel the best things happening in Alba. You will find a wide selection of restaurants that you can try in Legosp . Even better, why not spend the day eating and enjoying the best food in the capital.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bigg's Diner . The largest restaurant chain in the Cole area. Believe me, without this your journey would not be complete. They usually only have three branches in Legospi, but we recommend a branch in the Old Albay district for the full old school atmosphere. It is also the main branch of this state, which in itself makes Albania an attractive tourist destination.

Then visit the 1st Colonial Grills for the first dessert of the day: Al Sili ice cream . Made from mint milk, it is literally fiery ice in its exquisite form. Don’t worry, it has different levels of bitterness, so you should be fine regardless of your tolerance level.

Of course, no matter how sweet and fresh a Filipino cake is, Halo-Halo will always be the best. For those unfamiliar, canned ice cream, milk, rice, vanilla, jelly and a tablespoon of fresh fruit stuffed with a tablespoon of ice cream. And for most locals, DJC Halo-Halo is the way to Landco Business Park .

Finally, to get the best dishes from Bicolano cuisine, be sure to visit the Small Talk Cafe on Donya Aurora Street . Their menu is a great combination of traditional dishes and specialties. Not surprisingly, he is familiar to both locals and tourists. For classic simple dishes we recommend spraying beef, pickle express and beef tongue with mushroom sauce . But if your taste is full of adventure, try Laing Pasta , Bicol Express Pasta , Mayonnaise and Spicy Pizza .

Read also: Taste of the Philippines. Top 10 Travel Guides for Travelers

Where does an Albanian sleep?

Many of Alba’s best hotels are located in Legospi, where the airport is located. So, if you prefer a traditional hotel as accommodation, the capital is your best choice. We recommend The Oriental Albay , Hotel Venezia , Lotus Blu Hotel and Emerald Boutique Hotel . As for beach resorts, Cagrey Island is famous for the Mississippi Bay . Alba is clearly a tourist attraction and a luxurious tropical vacation.

Would you like to live in a traditional Filipino holiday home of your choice? Fortunately, in Legospire as well as in the surrounding cities there are many options. Located in a detached house Casa Simeon , FYI is a mansion with real estate. Visit the Balay Tinay guest house to get something a little more modern and practical. In addition, around Alba there are many budget accommodation and hostels that are ideal for young travelers on a budget.

Read! Where do you sleep in the Philippines? The best hotels, rooms and resorts

How do you get to beer?

You can travel to El Bireh by air or land . The first is definitely faster, so more convenient, and the second allows you to visit more interesting places.

I'm on a plane

Domestic airlines such as Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have direct flights to Legospi Airport from Nina Aquino International Airport (MNL) and Mactan Cebu International Airport (CEB). It takes about an hour and a half from the two initial flights, but it’s a good idea to take possible flight delays, such as airport departures.

Read! Bicol International Airport will soon become the “most beautiful gateway” to PH.

Travel by land

Traveling from Manila to Legospa by car / rental takes about 10 hours with an average stop. If you are traveling by bus from Manila, at Araneta Center Bus Station there are several bus companies that offer routes to the Grand Central Terminal of Legospí in Legospí. It’s best to wait 12 hours to get on the bus, especially if the bus isn’t heading to Legospi (which means there are stops in some cities).

When is the best time to travel to Alba?

As in many parts of the Philippines, Albania has a tropical rainy climate , so there is always the possibility of rain all year round. January - February - the best time to visit (especially for foreigners), as it is the coldest month with the least chance of rain. April to June is still the hottest month, but it’s the best time if you plan to go to the beach. August is also the best time for Legospin, as it is the time of the secular festival Ibolong .

Read! 17 things foreigners should not do in the Philippines.

Here's a quick and easy guide to Albay. Which Alba direction do you plan to see in the first place? However, if you’ve been there before, what do you like? Go and tell us in the comments.

Image courtesy of Archie Binamira Canva Pro. This article was originally published on TripZilla.

ALBAY Tourist points |: MT. Guide to Mayon