Valentine's Date at Mount Batulao

Travel Date: February 14, 2014

Mount Batulao


     It was Valentine’s.  That day most couples were celebrating in restaurants, hotels, and resorts.  But we want to spend our heart’s day in a different way, so we opted to climb Mount Batulao, a favorite day hike among adventure enthusiasts and mountaineers located in Nasugbu, Batangas.  Just 2 hours away from Manila and near to Tagaytay, we did this trail for only a day.

     Mount Batulao has an elevation of 813 meters.  A good start for beginners, but not the easiest mountain to hike.  So a day trip can be really tiring.  You only have 15 to 30 minutes to rest, then it’s time again to move on. 

     It was my first time to hike a mountain, but not for my boyfriend.  Also, I don’t have a proper clothes and shoes.  My body was not prepared for this, but I’m determined to reach the highest peak.  There were times that I hold on to grasses and stones in order not to slip, because I’m afraid that I might fall.  From time to time, I’m asking our guide to stop so I can rest and catch my breath.  Imagine how hard for me to do this without any experience of climbing a mountain with lower elevation.  For this height and difficulty, with several peaks to pass, we reached the highest in two hours in continue ascending and descending.   

     We were so proud to reach the top and happy to see its beauty.  With green rolling hills and sunny blue sky, the view was just awesome.  We did not mind our tired legs and thirsts.  We rested for a while to enjoy what we were seeing and to feel the wind that cools our body.  Then we had our snack in one of the huts that sell food and drinks.

     Just when I think it was over and after finishing the new trail, it was time now to take the old trail to go down the mountain.  I was frightened when I rappel down the 90 degrees cliff and I cling tight on the rope for my dear life.  After this, going down was a bit easy, and we reached the highway in two hours.

     Right then when I realized that I was dusty all over my body.  Good thing that there are houses nearby that you can use their bathroom to shower for a minimal fee.  After we freshen up, we get on a bus back to Tagaytay and had a sumptuous meal at Breakfast at Antonio’s. 


Mount Batulao


Mount Batulao


Jump-off point: Evercrest Golf Course, Nasugbu, Batangas

Best time to hike: When dry and sunny (January to May). The trails can be muddy and slippery during rainy season.

Accident: In February 2012, a first time hiker fell down from peak 8 of the new trail that caused her death.  It was believed that she fainted, lost her balance, and fell.  This is an isolated case though.

How to get there?  DLTB Bus in Taft Ave. bound to Nasugbu, Batangas

Budget: Php 800-1000 or USD 20-22


Location: Batangas, Philippines

Comments

Anonymous said…
ang ganda naman ng pictures mo mahal.
April 9, 2015 at 9:53 AM
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