Heading North (2 of 3 parts)

The northernmost part of Ilocos Norte has established a name of its own basically because of its sandy white beaches and the idyllic blue lagoon in addition to the extreme waves brushing into the shore from the North Luzon Sea.

From Laoag City, a two to three hour drive, you will find yourself in a town called Burgos, where the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse (the tallest lighthouse in the country built in 1892) proudly stands. It takes a few but huge steps to get up to this majestic lighthouse. Do wear extremely comfortable shoes and you will have no regrets enjoying the view of Burgos from the top.

In the very same area, it was exceptionally rare to find the White Rock Formation Kapurpurawan making you feel as if you were on a trip to Egypt. To get there, you will have to be alert on where to make a turn from the main road. It is slightly difficult to find but locals may help you out (surprisingly, not all would know what you are taking about). It is quite a drive to get to and may seem never-ending but be patient; you’ll get there. Once you get to the end of the road, you will have to walk some steps down towards the beach and walk for about a kilometer. Ensure to wear good hiking shoes unlike myself who wasn’t exactly prepared and came in a sun dress and slippers with snacks on hand. Nevertheless, I still made it to the top, plus I did some extra climbing to get good photographs. I said to myself that the view of nature from the top is just so incredible; it was truly worth it, no regrets whatsoever!

Along Bangui Bay, twenty windmills were built by the sea in one row, spaced 326 meters apart, reducing the emission of harmful greenhouse gases that cause global warming. These provide energy to the mountain town of Bangui.

A resort town called Pagudpud on the northernmost tip of Ilocos Norte is the place where you will find an endless array of magnificent powdery white sand beaches. One is called the Saud Beach or further along down a sealed road (with a small entrance fee), you will find Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center (recommended). Didn’t miss a ride on the sea kayaks as I paddled against the strong sea waves. What a challenge it was, having realized that my kayaking skills were still new!

You can never go wrong in Ilocos for a tasty meal of pinakbet, adobong pusit and adobong baboy overlooking the blue lagoon under the hot sun, making your day even more appealing. The powdery white sand beaches plus the tranquil environment make it an absolute paradise! Again, until next week…