Baler Bound: Roaming Around Aurora (Part 1)
Dicasalarin Cove |
Your trip in Baler is not complete without exploring the picturesque eco-tourism and historical sites around. While Baler is not as bustling as Boracay, it sure has a captivating charm of its own. Baler is a part of the province of Aurora, and the spectacular sites go beyond this town, extending to the quaint towns of San Luis, Maria Aurora, and many more. This part will walk you through the some of the eco-tourism destinations you should check out when in Aurora.
1. Soak up at Diguisit Falls
Along the highway, soon after we had our photo ops with the Diguisit beach and Aniao islets as backdrop, our guide announced that we had just arrived at our first major destination: the multi-layered Diguisit Falls. It's nestled just a few steps from the concrete road, and people just go up there, soak in refreshing water and then go down to their private cars or rented vehicles.
Diguisit Falls |
The rock formations at Diguisit Falls are stunning, and the crystal clear water is inviting. Hubby was able to go further up, while I just stayed midway. Make sure you have extra clothes or at least a towel to dry you up after enjoying the majestic waters.
Further up |
Closest to the road |
At the top |
2. Sightseeing at Aniao Islets and Diguisit Bay
We had also visited the famous Aniao Islets and Diguisit Bay on our way to Dicasalarin Cove. The rock formations are amazingly laid as if resting on calm waters. We stopped at a spot where we could have some photo ops in between the two attractions. Roads are concrete already, but the giant rocks on the side are a bit scary. So, don't attempt to go here if there's a typhoon or if it's raining hard. It's dangerous.
Aniao Islets |
Sharp rocks beside the road |
Diguisit Bay |
The road to Dicasalarin Cove |
We continued our journey towards Dicasalarin Cove. The roads are narrow, so drivers take precaution in going up or down, beeping from time to time. On our way up, we were awestruck by the beauty of the cove!
A view of Dicasalarin Cove |
I must say, there is no other place in Baler that is synanymous to paradise than in Dicasalarin Cove. You will find out later as you read on.
Our guide brought us to the Artists' Village first, a project of the Angaras. Its goal is to create a stimulating environment where artistry can flourish, not only as a hobby, but as a source of livelihood or as a calling.
The entrance at Dicasalarin Cove |
The facade of the Artists' Village |
The second floor hallway at the Artists Village |
A bar |
Posing on a unique chair |
A colorful wall installation |
Wooden bridge above the river |
A map of Dicasalarin Cove |
The guard house along the beach |
Vast cream white beach at Dicasalarin Cove |
Hermit crabs are abundant here |
Beach, beach, beach! |
More crabs! |
On our way to the lighthouse, we passed by another minuscule body of water with beautiful rocks on it. We even had a nice photo op there, doing some camera tricks for fun.
The stairway to the lighthouse has about 170 steps, so better to do this either early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not at its hottest. Make sure to bring water, towel and fan when going up. Abit exhausting but all worth it.
Going up to the lighthouse |
Breathe, breathe, breathe |
I hope by now you understand why I said you shouldn't miss Dicasalarin Cove when in Baler. As in never ever leave Baler without going here.
Ed Calma's Lighthouse |
After camwhoring at the lighthouse, we started our descent as it was getting dark already. On our way back, the former senator saw us and invited us for coffee (and snacks -- suman de Baler). In fairness, the former senator was gracious enough. Thanks Sen. Angara! The place is beautiful and we truly enjoyed our tour of your private haven!
Where to stay in Baler:
Nothing beats the facilities and food at the newly-opened Costa Pacifica Raintree in Sabang, Beach.
Related Posts:
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Costa Pacifica Raintree
80 Buton St, Sitio Labasin,
Barangay Sabang, Baler, Aurora, Philippines
Manila Office:
4/F Universale Building,
106 Paseo de Roxas cor. Perea Street, Makati
caguilar@costapacificaraintree.com
tel (632) 576.4555 | fax (632) 893.2561
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Special thanks to Mr. Randy Salvador,
Ms. Mela Sison, Mr. Sherwin Cruz,
and Ms. Pettina Mae Cruz for making
our stay memorable.
that artist's village is wow!
ReplyDeleteHi! Can we go to Dicasalarin cove anytime like 5am? Do you think it is safe if we use van in going there instead of 4x4 and no guide? Thanks! Nice post! :)
ReplyDeletehi! i'm not sure if it's open as early as 5am because it is a private property of Sen. Angara. also, you cannot go there alone without a guide and a permit. You can secure a permit at Costa Pacifica., no need for 4x4, a van will do.
ReplyDeletewhat is the contact number in artist's village?
ReplyDeleteHi Rizalyn,
ReplyDeleteI don't think they have a phone at the artists' village cause it's tucked in the private cove, but you may inquire at Costa Pacifica Raintree. They have a website.
Hi. Does the resort provide transpo to Dicasalarin Cove? If not, would you know how we can get there and how much if we don't have our own vehicle? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi, yes Costa Pacifica can arrange for your pass and transpo to Dicasalarin Cove
ReplyDelete