Our refreshing water activity at Sabang Beach had ended. The rain had stopped and the weather was now cooperative as we headed to our next breathtaking escape, to AMCO Diguisit Lodge and Resort. But before we fall in love in this scenic spot, we hopped out of our van and visited Ermita Hill located in Barangay Zabali. It was approximately six kilometers away from the town of Baler and travel time took us around fifteen minutes only.

We parked our van at the top of the hill and started exploring the spacious park of Ermita Hill, the highest point in Baler. We had our best photo ops in one of the gazebos and were overwhelmed to see the panoramic view of Baler town and Sabang Beach.

Ermita Hill plays an important part in the history of Baler as it witnessed the devastating tidal surge and flash flood that struck Baler on December 27, 1735. Only six families who survived the disaster climbed up the hill for safety. At the foot of the hill is the Tromba Marina shrine commemorating this catastrophe.

Now, Ermita Hill is a quiet sanctuary for nature lovers and visitors who want to escape a noisy crowd.

No entrance fee.

Our next destination, to AMCO Digusit Lodge and Resort. The resort was ten minutes away from Ermita Hill. The smell of fresh air and the sight of the stunning blue sea by the road was really a refreshing treat. And we got so excited as we saw the iconic rock formations of Baler as we went inside the resort.

The resort had no posh facilities, no extravagant rooms, only nipa huts which for me, brings a laid-back feel. Our nipa hut was air-conditioned and with one room only. It had debunked beds good for four persons, with a comfort room and a small balcony with a table and tv. Froi’s room and his family had the same nipa hut.

Room rate – P1,500, no entrance fee.

We rested for two hours and by 3:00 pm, little kids Shen and Abu frolicked into the swimming pool where the water came from a spring, definitely no harmful chemical and safe for the kids. By 5:00 pm we explored the rocky formation. The view was even more spectacular as we went deeper into the craggy rocks.

The twin rock formations had space in between where one can walk into the rocks and will end in a sandy area where it connects to the main stretch. A small bare nipa hut found here is a nice backdrop once you take a candid shot of the craggy rocks.

After our photo ops, we dipped our feet into the clear water, playing and savoring nature’s finest gift. Then we went back to the swimming pool to watch the kids.

The resort had no canteen nor cafeteria so by night time, we went to Baler town and chose Yolly’s Ihaw-Ihaw & Seafood Resto for our dinner. The food was just fine and served just in time. Our tummies were all full when we left the resto.

The gentle world of the sea by nighttime

When we went back to the resort, we occupied one table and stayed comfortably on the beachfront. The night was so good for stargazing, happy conversation, and munching snacks. And best of it all, we all found delight looking at the cheerful waves illuminated by the beach lights.

There’s no maddening crowd and no night party. We enjoyed fully the nighttime solitude, the calm and gentle world of the sea.

A little later, we went into bed for a cool and comfortable sleep.

Next destination - Aniao Islets, Baler Lighthouse

 How to get there (from Manila):

Ride a bus, Genesis Bus Station in Pasay is the only bus company that provides a direct trip to Baler. From Baler town proper take a tricycle ride going to the resort.

 Contact Info:

• Cellphone numbers: +639999907693 look for Ateigh
• Address: Diguisit, Baler, Aurora
• Affiliated with AMCO Beach Resort, Sabang Beach, Baler

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