Summer heat hits the entire region so off we went for a sojourn in my beloved hometown Albay. We’ve been told by our relatives that it was raining the past few weeks. But I was so thankful because the weather was very cooperative the moment we arrived at our vacation house in Malinao.
Mayon up close and personal
We were so grateful to our uncle Tiyo Jaime for providing us his jeepney for the day’s trip. We revisited Cagsawa Ruins early morning. We were saddened to see some of the ravaging effects of typhoon Reming. The main road leading to the ruins was entirely covered by sand. Trees and plants were very few. But it’s good that the main attraction particularly the bell tower wasn’t affected at all.
The kids at the Children’s Playground
After walking around, we went to Busay Falls in Malilipot for a refreshing dip. Then we had our lunch in our uncle’s house in Tabaco with a delectable Bicol dish laing matched with fried tambakol.
After a hearty lunch, we headed to the Mayon Skyline (formerly called Mayon Resthouse). It took us thirty minutes to reach Baryo Buang (a municipality of Tabaco) to where the turnout was well-marked. Going up the skyline was twenty minutes of travel time. Thank God, this famous scenic spot wasn’t affected by typhoon Reming.
A refreshing sight from the gazebo
Facts about Mayon Skyline
The Mayon Skyline is located at the eastern slope of Mayon Volcano with an altitude of 2,700 feet from sea level. This is an excellent summer resort where the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and its surrounding town could be seen. This is also called “Heaven on Earth” for its cool temperature and magnificent hanging clouds.
The gazebo
On our second visit, we were glad to see the improved gazebos in the terraced park. We occupied one gazebo and there we enjoyed watching the breathtaking view of verdant vegetation, my favorite long thin grass, and the mystical twin peaks, Mt. Malinao and Mt. Masaraga. There was a new children’s playground where Pao, Macky, Ambet, and Bimbo enjoyed playing in the seesaw.
Mik in the gazebo and the beautiful view
It was a stifling afternoon but the cool temperature was somewhat refreshing. It resembled the cool weather in Tagaytay’s People’s Park. This is an ideal place for an inexpensive family summer getaway. There is no entrance fee here.
It was again fulfilling to see the imposing beauty of Mayon Volcano. Though this was an everyday sight in front of our vacation house in Malinao, it was more thrilling being closer to this awesome spot.
Yours truly and the cool weather
Our first visit here was so memorable because of the hanging clouds that slowly passed right before our very eyes. We ran like a child, only to feel it because it was only water particles. It was truly an amazing experience as we chanced to see and feel it.
Serene park
The Mayon Vista Lodge is closed. If this is only operating this might add another good attraction to Mayon Skyline. There were vendors selling beautiful wild orchids and bonsai plants near the view deck.
Satisfied, we left the place in an hour and headed to Dhio Endheka for a refreshing swim.
IN GETTING THERE:
There is no public transportation going up the skyline. Either you bring your own private vehicle or hire a jeepney or a tricycle. But you can hike coming from the turnout point in Buang going up the Skyline. From Tabaco, there are jeepneys bound for Ligao City. Just tell the driver to drop you at the Mayon entrance in Baryo Buang and you can start hiking. From Holy Thursdays to Good Fridays, this place is packed with hikers.