Taal Volcano is a popular attraction
Batangas is a province in Luzon's Southern Tagalog region in the Philippines and is about 35 miles south of Manila. The region's most-visited attractions include Taal Lake and Taal Volcano, popular with tourists for their diverse wildlife and diving spots. Batangas has a rich cultural history with many old churches and houses - many of which date back to the mid-1500s when Spanish explorers visited the area.
Taal Lake and Volcano
Taal Lake and Taal Volcano are the main tourist attractions in Batangas. Taal Volcano is regarded as the smallest volcano in the world and is surrounded by the 26-kilometer long Taal Lake. Both the lake and volcano are actually inside of a massive extinct volcano, which makes an ideal hiking spot. There are seven small towns located on the outskirts of the lake that provide either busing or ferry service to reach Taal Volcano. Agoncillo, Talisay, Laurel, San Nicolas and Balete are some of the more popular lakeside towns that offer guides for hire as well.
Basilica of San Martin de Tours
The Basilica of San Martin de Tours was built in honor of the Patron Saint of Taal in 1575. It was destroyed in 1754 when Taal Volcano erupted but was rebuilt in 1755 - only to once again be destroyed by an earthquake in 1849. In 1856 the church was reconstructed and at the time was the largest church in East Asia. The Baroque façade and architecture of the Basilica of San Martin de Tours continues to delight tourists.
Lipa Cathedral
Lipa Cathedral was constructed in honor of St. Sebastian and a festival is held beginning Jan. 20 every year. This weeklong event draws many people to the streets and culminates with a concert at the end. Every Sunday a Holy Celebration is held hourly which fills Lipa Cathedral.
Ilijan Falls
Ilijan Falls is a unique waterfall that features water dropping from a large spring at the top of a mountain. There are seven huge stone bowls that are carved into the mountainside in which the water flows. These bowls create a stair-like waterfall effect that generates breathtaking views and is a popular tourist spot.
Mount Maculot
Mount Maculot is the highest mountain in the province and is very popular with skilled mountain hikers and climbers. The mountain is one of the last Japanese strongholds from World War II and many tunnels constructed by soldiers are still present in the area. Mount Maculot is a 30-minute bus trip from Batangas and about 90 minutes away from Manila.
Tags: Taal Volcano, Taal Lake, Basilica Martin, Basilica Martin Tours, Lipa Cathedral, Martin Tours, Mount Maculot