TraveLore: AN ESCAPE FROM THE CITY: BATULAO MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

You can’t simply describe in one word the breathtaking scenic views at Mount Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas. The dramatic sight of rocky countryside from the summit certainly makes for fantastic scenery to behold. The refreshing air melts away all the stress and tiredness you felt in going all the way up. With your eyes getting full of the entire landscape while enjoying a fresh Buko (young coconut) juice, you’ll surely find a way out of your complicated world and appreciate the simplicity of life in its finest. The Batulao Mountain Climbing activity is one of the most favored day-hikes near Manila wherein the hikers, beginners and experienced alike can experience a pleasant outdoor adventure with either of the Mount Batulao’s “Old trail” or “New trail”.

TRAILS TO MOUNT BATULAO – A PLEASANT SUMMER TREKKING

Our whole adventure began from Evercrest Golf Course – the jumpoff – there the group

started gearing up for the next 2-3 hours climb to the camp site. We arrived to Evercrest around 2PM because the plan was to travel the way to summit very early the next day to meet and greet with the anticipated sunrise. Mountain climbing Philippines exposed you in a scorching heat so wearing armband and cap during the trekking will protect you from too much UV rays exposures. The trails consisted of rolling slopes --walking at times in an upward hill then suddenly down to a steep trekking. It was a dusty road along the entire mountain hiking adventure making my newly bought black sandals turned pretty brownish.

There were numerous hut stop-over points wherein mount batulao “café” were operated

by the locals, providing shades and seats for exhausted hikers who want to take some rest and indulge in a refreshing Buko juice for only PHP 25.00. The locals were all nice and accommodating, serving you with friendly smiles. They also offered delicious Halo-Halo and other refreshments like softdrinks and samalamig. There were available dishes if you want to eat a heavy meal before proceeding with the summer hiking and you can also try the sweet bananas in just PHP 1.00 for each piece.

The initial trails were rough roads and carved out within woodlands – where we were still protected by the gracious shades of the trees. The well maintained woodland with slightly rocky undulations finally led us to the campsites or stations marked from 1-10.

PERFECT OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FOR CAMPERS TROOPS

At the campsite there was a registration fee of PHP 20.00 per head to help in the maintenance of the whole place. Batulao is also one of the famous places for mountain camping making hundred of camping troops set there on weekends.  Batulao Mountain Climbing may not be the perfect trip for those who are seeking mountain peacefulness but it’s a great opportunity for the crowd seekers who are up to happy sessions with friends and other camper troops. 

Tents were built and there were 2-3 trees in the camp area where you can set up a canopy

for a relaxing swing while staring above the clear sky view. With our camping stove and ingredients all primed, the whole group happily joined forces in preparing our sumptuous dinner – rice with sinigang and fried hotdog. During the night, the winds blew in much colder temperature and stronger force so we took our jacket and scarves for protection. There were also the different sounds of crickets and other mountain insects who all crooned in unique harmony, such ensemble you will not hear in the metropolis.

 Night camping felt best while gathered in a circle, sharing stories and laugh trip moments over a cup of coffee.  One of the nice things about mountain climbing is that you get to break away temporarily from the chaotic, polluted cities. In the mountain, you get to communicate with the nature and benefits from its soul reliving energy.

REACHING THE MOUNTAIN SUMMIT – SUCH A BLISSFUL REWARD

Another heavenly experience about mountain camping is the moment to wake up when the dawn is just about to break. There you go out of the tent inhaling the foggy air while stretching your whole body with so much relief. 

Early in the morning, we started out in our trekking to the Batulao summit passing through the 9 Camp stations; Camp 10 is already the summit itself. The first 7 camp stations were all same slopes with few grassland paths while others were mainly rocky-strewn and steep. Reaching the station 8 almost takes you there at the summit, just 30-45 minutes away. 

Batulao Mountain Climbing is indeed a fun outdoor adventure but utmost care must be observed just like with any other mountain hiking activity. At station 8 was where the final climb began, the wind is much stronger from this point and the slopes are a lot steeper than the rest. There were loose stones and the soil are too dry and dusty to give a good grip to the shoes. The winds are too powerful that can set you off balance – but then it worth all the obstacles during the 75 degrees assault on steep trails as you finally made it to the summit. 

The dazzling sunrise peaked from the clouds like a shy little one and finally emerged and burst out in blissful rays of sunlight. That particular moment is definitely one of the heavenly minutes to cherish and remember. The scene was quite theatrical as we all stared and awed in exorbitant appreciation of such a meaningful and maybe symbolical show at the mountain’s top. 

Summer hiking became more than just an adventure but rather a close connection with the nature. The sights at the summit made for an excellent picture taking with the Cavite and Batangas plains on the background. Philippine geographical showed off for its perfect features with all the beautiful rock and mountain formations that surrounded. Full views of the neighboring majestic mountains, Tagaytay highlands and Balayan bays were just few of millions testimonies on His Highness’ grandiose works --such a remarkably magnificent moment!