Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Ilocos Sur

 

    Ilocos Sur, a province in the north of the  Philippines, is home to a rich cultural     heritage, beautuiful scenery, and kind     people. Ilocos Sur was one of the first         provinces in the Philippines to be explored  and colonized by the Spanish in the 16th     century. The influence of Spanish     colonization can still be seen in the     architecture, cuisine, and traditions of the  province. Come to Ilocos Sur, one of the     most significant historical regions in the     Philippines. Join us as we   set out to     explore this alluring location's hidden   gems and must-see tourist attractions.

5 Enchanting Tourist Spots in Ilocos Sur

1. Quirino Skyline

    Welcome to Skyline, one of the most well-liked side trips for both Ilocos and adjacent provinces' motorcyclists.  Driving to Banayoyo from the Ilocos Sur city of Candon takes an hour and passes through the villages of Lidlidda and San Emilio. 

    The famed Skyline is located in the long-contested tri-border region of the three municipalities of Ilocos Sur (San Emilio, Quirino, and Gregorio del Pilar), but it was eventually decided that it belonged to the Municipality of Quirino after a number of boundary dispute settlements.

 

    It is advisable to travel early so you can reach at your destination at approximately 5 AM so you can see the breathtaking but

occasionally uncommon sea of clouds develop for yourself. Skyline includes a view deck that provides a bird's-eye view over Quirino, Ilocos Sur, the Tubo mountains, and the Abra river when the weather is clear and not foggy. Fogs would frequently roll in throughout the late afternoon, making views difficult to take in.  The teeth-clattering wind would be your sole solace. 

    Going to this best tourist destination in Ilocos, there’s free entrance for persons with disabilities.

The entrance fee at the Skyline View Deck is PhP 30 for non-residents of the municipality, PhP 20 for resident and non-resident senior citizens, and PhP 15 for resident senior citizens.The camping fee per head is PhP 50 for children six and below, PhP 80 for teens and adults, and PhP 30 for seniors.

2. Hidden Garden

    Vigan’s one and only hidden garden is located at the heart of the city. 

    You will be amazed of its beautiful plants and superb potteries. Feel the warmth of nature as you dine with its first class restaurant located just inside the compound. 

    Hidden Garden is owned and managed by Rafaela “Glo” Flores. The exact address is Brgy. Bulala, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.

    A must visit to all plant lovers and others who simply admire nature's beauty, one can wander inside the big garden with no entrance fee, pathways  will lead you to a lot of good spots inside where the place showcases various plants found not only in the Philippines, but also in different parts of Asia.

     After you finish your tour around the place, you can rest at their restaurant where you can also dine with your family/friends.

3. Pinsal Falls

    Philippine waterfall that is located in the town of Santa Maria in the province of Ilocos Sur. With a height of approximately 85 feet, it is known for being the largest waterfall in the Ilocos Region as well as for its natural beauty. With its romantic atmosphere, Pinsal Falls is a popular location for filming Philippine movies as well as a favorite spot for swimming and for picnicking. The pools at the top of the falls are famous as well. The biggest of these pools' figures in a local legend as it is said to be the footprint that was left by an Ilocano giant who was running off in search of his wife. There is also a famous spring with boiling-hot water at the top of the falls.

    The largest of the natural pools at the top of the falls is said to be the footprint of the

mythical Ilocano giant Angalo. According to local legend, the giant was supposed to have left it when he went off in search of his wife, the female giant Aran. The mythical giant couple Angalo and Aran also figure in many other Ilocano myths and legends.

    The waterfall lies among the shady hills and mountains of Barangay Babal-lasioan in the town of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, which also famous for its parish church which dates back to the Spanish era. Pinsal Falls is about 45 minutes away by car from Sta. Maria’s municipal hall. The falls may also be reached by foot from the nearby town of Pilar, Abra, through a set of stone steps in the mountain by the falls. These steps are regularly used by the residents of Pilar to travel to and from the town of Sta. Maria.:)

4. Sulvec Beach

    The coastal town of Narvacan (one of the largest in terms of land area and population in the entire Ilocos Sur) would actually capture a traveller’s attention as it imposes a stunning seascape. One particular spot is a rocky beach and a grotto by the sea called Paraiso ni Juan at Sulvec Point. The striking beauty of these vistas would often prompt a traveller to drop by the area. I suggest though that you stay until sundown because the sunset view is

just stunning at this side of Ilocos.

    Sulvec in Narvacan is mainly known for it’s rocky beaches. But unknown to many is a wide brown sandy beach located away from the national highway. Sulvec Beach has wide beach and is located at the Sulvec Port along the Sulvec Port Road.

    The grotto at the middle of the bay which is located several hundred meters away from the beach line brings peace to the ambiance this moment.  As the waves turn to wavelets that gush themselves to the rocks of different sizes, the urge to see the sunset is slowly being alleviated with satisfaction and fulfillment.  I have attempted to capture a sunset in Sulvec Bay ever since I was a child but fate did not grant me such desire. Those times, I still didn’t have a camera until 2010 came when I first handed my first ever digital camera (second hand) which was acquired from my first ever work at the age of 21 being a staff nurse. 

5. Fish Sancturary of San Esteban

    The province of Ilocos Sur has a healthy culture, stories, and travel destinations. San Esteban Fish Sanctuary is just one of the best in the province that is certified tourist destination because of its unique and amazing picturesque. The ocean, with the reflection of the skies, greets the visitors with its instagrammable landscape.  The water is cool and crystal clear waters surrounded by unique rocks formation which preserves the tranquility in the area. This is also the perfect diving. Fish Sanctuary is definitely one of the must visit tourist spots and destinations in San Esteban, Ilocos Sur.

    Ilocos Sur is such a lovely city that I believe every Filipino should visit to embrace history and culture, thus I hope you find this Ilocos Sur itinerary helpful for your trips to Region I. 

About the Writers

    Hello everyone!  My name is Lavern Cristina Yvonne Dictaan, and I'm delighted to share a bit about myself. At 17-years old, I am currently pursuing my studies as a Grade 11 STEM student at Tagudin National High School. Aside from traveling, I enjoy listening to music, taking photographs, reading, and meeting new people. I have always been fascinated by the beauties of my homeland, Ilocos Sur, which never ceases to attract me with its exceptional beauty and cultural diversity. Thank you and have a pleasant day.

    Hello everyone! My name is Cheena Limon, and I'm thrilled to share a little bit about myself. I'm a 17-year-old. Currently, I'm studying at Tagudin National High School as a Grade 11 STEM student. I have always been passionate about exploring the wonders of my hometown, Ilocos Sur, which never fails to captivate me with its remarkable beauty and cultural richness.