The province of Batangas is known for its irresistible charm and a common travel destination for people living in Manila due to its proximity. It is home to the well-known Taal Volcano, historical sites, spectacular beaches, and diving spots that would definitely make you say “YES!” to visit these mountains hiking in Batangas for Beginners.
But there’s more about the province –its beguiling mountains and hills. Experience a challenging yet rewarding outdoor activity and create unforgettable adventure in these six mountain hiking in Batangas for Beginners.
Mt. Gulugod Baboy
Located at Mabini, Batangas, Mt. Gulugod Baboy is notable for its 2/9 difficulty level to climb. The trail is perfect for beginners, and it is kid-friendly and pet-friendly. On the first few kilometers, you’ll be walking on a concrete road where you’ll get to pass by several houses and come across dogs, goats, cows, and carabaos along the way. But are there pigs? Its name could be a hint!
Worry not because you won’t see pigs roaming around the mountain. The reason behind its name is its peak outline that resembles a pig’s spine, which in Tagalog is Gulugod Baboy.
The mountain offers a scenic view of coastal waters, greenery, and mountains that could take your breath away. Also, you could catch a good sight of Batangas and Balayan bays, as well as other nearby islands.
It is also known for its unique feature that is its three peaks:
- The Gulugod Baboy (470 meters above sea level)
- Gitna (485 MASL)
- Pinagbanderahan (525+ MASL)
It doesn’t really matter which peak you choose to stand on because the view on these three peaks will never disappoint. Don’t forget to snap photos for the ‘gram! The amazing views and backdrops surely captivates everybody.
Mt. Apayang
Nasugbu, Batangas is home to eleven mountains, and one of those with easy trails is Mt. Apayang. It measures 652+ MASL with a difficulty level of 3/9.
The trail of Mt. Apayang is a forested area with a long stretch of flat foot trail. The hike is quite challenging to embark on because of the tall grasses. But upon setting foot on the summit, a spectacular view of mountain ranges, and even Mt. Marami in Cavite, will make the climb worth it. You also get to experience history because of the rocks with writings that were said to date back to the Japanese occupation.
If you’re feeling a little dauntless, consider a twin hike from Mt. Apayang to its neighboring mountain, Mt. Talamitam. It would only take less than thirty minutes to finish the trail from one mountain to another.
Mt. Talamitam
Mt. Talamitam lies on the other side of Mt. Batulao at Nasugbu, Batangas. It is considered the younger sister of Batulao; both mountains present rewarding scenery after a tiring hike. The climb to Mt. Talamitam has a 3/9 difficulty level, and its peak measures 662+ MASL. This mountain isn’t only perfect for first-timers but also for seasoned hikers.
The trail gives off an adventure vibe from a woodland area to a river cross and passes through the grassland where horses and cows are. The upland field is comparable to New Zealand’s landscape. It is indeed an enchanting sight!
Once you get to the summit, you could get a glimpse of Mt. Batulao, the Lumbang Group of Islands, the peak of Mt. Pico de Loro, Taal Lake, Tagaytay, and other nearby towns. Standing on the peak of Mt. Talamitam would make you feel reconnected with nature. If you can’t get enough of the scenery, you can spend the night on the mountain as its grassland campsite is open for everyone.
Mt. Daguldol
A coastal mountain at San Juan, Batangas, Mt. Daguldol offers a nice and easy trek. It measures 672 MASL and has a 3/9 difficulty level.
The mountain’s name is a Tagalog word from the olden days that means grandiosity and suspense. Given its spectacular mountain range and rolling slope, the name Daguldol is a perfect fit.
Rock formations can be spotted all over the place, and there are three trails on Mt. Daguldol that leads to discovering its treasured scenery. First, a beach trail that would definitely trigger the excitement and give off a refreshing feel. On the second trail, you would come across the woodlands and forests. And lastly, the grassland trail which is on top of the mountain.
Once you reach the top, you will get a good view of nearby mountains such as Mt. Maculot, Mt. Banahaw, Mt. Cristobal, Mt. Banoi, and Mt. Naguiling. The coastal areas of Batangas, the island of Mindoro, and Tayabas Bay are also visible.
Mt. Manabu
Mt. Manabu stands at 760 MASL in Sto. Tomas, Batangas. Despite how high it measures, Mt. Manabu is only a two-hour hike with a 2/9 difficulty level. Definitely an ideal destination for first-time hikers.
The name Manabu is an abbreviation of the Tagalog phrase ‘Mataas Na Bundok’ that translates to a high mountain. The trail of Mt. Manabu is unique due to its rosary shape and a white cross that marks its highest point, known as a rosary trail.
If you’re one of those people having trouble waking up early, it’s totally fine. Most of the part of the trail is covered with trees that serve as shade against the harsh sunlight that adds up to the list of the things you will enjoy. And don’t forget to leave a splash as you cross the creek!
The grass covers the summit; flowering plants and shrubs are beautifully arranged all over the place. You’ll get the perfect view of Malinpuyo mountain range, Mt. Maculot, Mt. Banahaw, and Mt. Makiling.
There are eight stations in Mt. Manabu if you want to complete the rosary trail. The summit is on station six. So, are you up for a two-more-station challenge?
Mt. Batulao
Known as a popular and favorite hiking destination at Nasugbu, Batangas, Mt. Batulao is an inactive stratovolcano elevated at 811 MASL. Despite its difficulty level of 4/9, the mountain is still considered beginner-friendly due to its well-established trails. We saved the best for last in our list of mountain hiking in Batangas for Beginners.
During the last week of December, the mountainside turns yellow once the rays of the morning sun strike. Hence, the mountain’s name from the Tagalog word Batong Dilaw which translates to the yellow stone.
The trail is an up and down pattern with moderately steep terrain and open slopes. You can choose between the Old Trail and New Trail of which path you’ll take, but most hikers traverse to experience both trails.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be welcomed by the coastline, Calatagan Peninsula, Balayan Bay, Tagaytay Highlands, and mountains in Cavite. The refreshing wind would ease your exhaustion from the climb. It is definitely a rewarding sweet escape from the daily hustle and bustle.
These six mountain hiking in Batangas for Beginners will definitely give you a rush of adrenaline, good memories, and more as you start your mountain climbing journey! We hope your first try won’t be your last!
Want to visit more destinations in the Philippines? Check our ultimate Banaue Rice Terraces Guide 2022 and our Vlogumentary where we met a local farmer or maybe drop by the beach for some surfing and chill session in La Union this weekend!
