Visiting the province of Albay is not only for witnessing the picturesque landscape of the Mayon Volcano but also to seek adventures of a lifetime. Ligñon Hill Nature Park, a must visit attraction of the city of Legazpi offers a 360-degree extreme adventure experience for its visitors. In the past, it is only known for the PHILVOCS observatory, but now a major destination for sightseers and adventurers. The road leads to the 156-meter high hill having a circular view deck on top which provides a breathtaking view of the scenic Mayon Volcano, Legazpi City, and the Albay Gulf.
I went to the park twice; first was during my first day visiting it at 6 PM with a night view of the surroundings and during the late afternoon of my third day where I tried the zip line. An environmental fee (20 for Non-Albay residents, 25 for foreigners and 10 for Non-Albay students) to be paid at the entrance of the park where you’ll start your trek. Taxis are the only Albay public transport allowed to go up to the hill so if you don’t have a car prepare to embark a tough 20-minute walk.
The perfect-coned shape of Mayon showed up when I reached the viewing deck, a beautiful reward for a gasping walk. I rested for a while enjoying the scenic view on top overlooking Mayon and the city of Legazpi. Taking your picture with the landscape is one of the problems of a solo traveler. Not having a tripod, I tried to look for areas where I can place my camera for a souvenir photo. The radiant light plus the cold wind created a romantic mood in the area where a few number of couples sitting on the benches. After an hour, I decided to go down. Going to the hill at night is not a problem since the road is well lighted by light posts on the side.
Late afternoon of my third day in Legaspi when I decided to try the zip line so I went again to Lignon Hill. Since I forgot to check the Japanese tunnel during my first visit, I dropped by at the area where a dummy of a Japanese soldier welcomed me. I made fun out of it by scaring myself what if the mannequin moves and attack me. I just took some shots of the tunnel and left the area since the gate to the tunnel was closed.
I proceeded to the Kapit Tuko Trail, a shortcut going to the top. At the start of the trail, a ladder made by the management is available but afterward, I found myself climbing some big rocks and using some vines to continue on the trail. I was the only one taking the trail and the negative side of mine stood out and asked questions like what if I will slip off and faint or won’t be able to get out of the trail. I was relieved when I saw the view deck from the trail. The trail made me so exhausted that I drank half a liter of water. After cooling down from the thrilling trek with the Kapit Tuko Trail, I went to the registration area for the zip line.
I only tried the Basic at PHP250 for the two-way rides but you can also try the Superman and Spiderman ride at PHP350 with one photo print out. Paid the zip line fee, signed the waiver, and I’m ready to try my first zip line ride. The first way is 180 meters while the ride going back is shorter at 160 meters as per the crew. It was my first zip line ride; however, I didn’t feel any fear rather enjoyed the moment I was hung in the air with the Mayon Volcano in the background.
The park is open from 8AM to 10PM daily but regular joggers can enter as early as 5 AM. Different activities in the park include rappelling, hanging bridge, paintball, and a mini golf. Also located at the view deck are souvenir shops and restaurants together with the Lignon Hill Observatory.
How to get to Lignon Hill Nature Park
From Legaspi City proper, look for jeepneys with “LOOP 1” on their signage. Fare is 8 pesos and travel time is about 10-15minutes. Going back to the city, ride jeepneys with “LOOP 2”.
* Special thanks to the very accommodating staff of the Lignon Hill Nature Park.
