What do you prefer the most? Is it mountain or beach? Hmmm...how about having both? Yes, no need to be torn between the two because you can have both.
The best of both worlds!
If you are an adventure-seeker fella with your energetic feet always itching for a slight kick of adrenaline-pumping activities like mountaineering with its feet nestled at the very stunning beach paradise and you happened to be a beach-lover also (which I suppose most of us naturally are)...I bet you would agree with me if I say it's an awesome taste of the best of both worlds, wouldn't you?!
Now where on the patch of earth is this paradise located? Well, let me start bragging to you. ☺
This is Mt. Daguldol is a coastal mountain and another treasured gem located at San Juan, Batanggas. It was a very memorable climb for me and my friends because it was one of our friend's birthdays and she requested to have her special day celebrated on top of the mountain to breathe in some nature. Of course, her special day would not have been completed if it weren't for her supportive and annoying friends, us! [Lol] That's why she wanted us to join her, of course.
By commuting, we gathered early at the bus terminal at Buendia for us to get to Batanggas because we were all traveling from Manila. It was a three-hour road journey to reach this mountain-rich province. When we arrived at San Juan, we rode a jeepney bound to Brgy. Hugom where our target mountain, Mt. Daguldol is exactly located.
And yes, our jump-off point was at the beach. I was in total awe as we were walking with the breathtaking view of the turquoise blue water of the sea shimmering like precious gems as the glittering rays of the sun were mirrored on the water.
My eyes were glued to the head-turning scenic view of the sea with its tiny waves seems inviting me to go near the water. The white sand and the rock formations have even made the view even more amazing. It was like I was torn between putting already on my swimwear and staying at the beach or continuing with our trek, haha. Of course, I chose the latter. I will be enjoying the beach on our side trip the next day anyway.
As you can see, I was carrying a box of cake with me while we were ascending. It was for the birthday celebrator (of course) who was planning to have a blast at the top of the mountain. Along the way on our ascend, I was wishing hard that it is shape would not be deformed when we reach the top but still ended up a messy cake. Haha!
It took us 5 hours to reach the summit. Mt. Daguldol's level of trek difficulty is very slight, giving every beginner a minor and friendly start.
It was already 5:30 PM when we reached it so after taking a rest for while and grasping some fresh air after an exhausting climb, we then immediately set up our tents and then prepared for dinner. And after a happy chat over a delicious meal, it was already time for the lights off and wished everyone a good night's sleep.
And on the next day, a chilly morning breeze woke us up. It was so nice to see the fog surrounding the mountain. We could not wait for it to vanished and unfold the astonishing charm of Mt. Daguldol for us to see.
And then we prepared food for breakfast. It was a much-needed meal to energize us because there was so much exploring that needed to be done on the top that day. Of course, we won't miss the chance to see every corner of Mt. Daguldol's hidden beauty.
And when the sunlight has finally overtaken the morning fogs, the breathtaking view of the lush greenery above was already showing up.
We were so thankful that we were given a sunny day so we could fully enjoy mother earth at the top, more on with celebrating our friend's birthday on the top (even though the cake has already become a mess 😅).
After eating breakfast, we spent our time wandering around and taking a lot of pictures with the enchanting beauty of Mt. Daguldol in the background.
We had fun taking pictures and walking around, it felt like we were kids. It was so amazing to have been able to climb this magnificent mountain. It did not disappoint us. We got refreshed and relaxed.
It was around 8:00 AM when we decided to descend so we could still have time to enjoy the beach as well.
The stunning beach was waiting. We could not wait to swim into the clear seawater. And after enjoying the sea, some of my friends enjoyed playing volleyball. I am not into ball games (so afraid that the ball might hit me in the face, haha!), so I was just contented watching them.
And then we all went back home happy. Indeed, Mt. Daguldol was an amazing climb. And it was even more amazing because, from mountain-to-beach real quick experience. What a perfect getaway for everyone who is craving for mountain and beach escapade all at once.
Thank you dear Hivers for dropping by! Have a great weekend everyone!