The Summer Capital and Vegetable Basket of Cebu

                                                            DALAGUETE

Dalaguete is a first class municipality 84 kilometers southeast from Kilometer Zero of the Cebu Provincial Capitol. Hailed as the Vegetable Basket of Cebu and its Official Summer Capital (via Cebu Provincial Board Resolution 215-2006 dated January 23, 2006), the town is well-known for its cooler than the usual highlands where about 60 tons of farm fresh vegetables are harvested and delivered on a daily basis to Cebu City and the neighboring towns and provinces.

The town’s array of crowd drawer destinations includes, among others, the refreshingly cool Obong Spring (where the dalakit tree, reputedly the very tree where Dalaguete got its name still stands), the Mantalongon mountain ranges (home to the unique rock formations and the route of choice leading to the famous Osmeña Peak), and the Dalaguete Beach Park (part of the former Argao Beach Club).

Indeed, the town is host to some of Cebu’s remaining natural heritage sites – breath-taking mountain ranges with its chilling natural breeze that almost soothes to the bone, enchanting forest patches that are home to some of the world’s most endangered flora and fauna, and coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.

The Mantalongon highlands are increasingly becoming a favorite hideaway of both university students and young professionals alike most especially on weekends and during vacations either to test their raw strength and courage in scaling the heights or simply to escape the monotony and noise of urban life.

Recently, there is a significant increase in tourist arrivals of foreigners and locals alike who look forward to a peaceful countryside life either under the sun, sea and sand or up there at a thousand feet above sea level at the very heart of nature.

WHAT MAKES DALAGUETE A BEST PLACE TO VISIT?

The Municipality of Dalaguete, Cebu is indeed a place of alluring wonders -  breathtaking mountains, charming heritage sites, enchanting beaches, fascinating forests with unique flora and fauna, and spectacular reefs teeming with diverse marine life. These are wondrous places which very few Cebuanos have known or heard. These places emit the serenity of the countryside, the tranquil surroundings amid lush greenery, never before seen by the majority.

6 Best Things To Do In Dalaguete, Philippines: Summer Capital Of Cebu

Summertime in Cebu is awesome, and this first-class municipality serves as proof. Dalaguete, which is located in the south, is regarded as the Summer Capital of the province. Apart from the stunning natural attractions and tropical climate, it’s also renowned for its rich history.

This list will make sure that you appreciate the town to the fullest. Unleash your adventurous side and try out these six top activities in Dalaguete. November, December, January, and February are the best months to visit if you want to experience a cooler climate. Whatever the season is, Dalaguate will definitely give you nothing but precious moments.

1. Go swimming in Obong Springs

Relax and become one with nature at this pool in Barangay Balud. Obong Springs is well-known not only for being ice-cold, but also for its mixture of fresh and salt water. Upon arrival, put on your swimsuits and enjoy a refreshing dip. The pool is surrounded by huge rocks that can be used as diving platforms.

If you’re not in the mood for some swimming, then you can have a picnic or just marvel at the lovely scenery. The ancient “dalakit” trees are sure to amaze you. Reaching the site is quite easy. At the Cebu City Bus Terminal, get on a bus heading to Dalaguete and ask the conductor to drop you off at Obong Springs. It will take about two and a half hours to get there.

2. Climb Osmena Peak

At Osmena Peak in Mantalongan, you can expect a pleasant trekking adventure. Standing 1,042 meters (3,419 feet) above sea level, it’s known as the highest peak in Cebu. Reaching the top only takes about 20 to 25 minutes, and the cool atmosphere is guaranteed to keep you going. You will certainly fall in love with the view of not only the island and the sea, but the cone-shaped hills as well. The landscapes are similar to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol. You will also see traditional wood houses and farmers working on the vegetable fields.

If you want to spend the night, there’s a camping area that charges 1 USD (50 PHP) per person. Tents and other equipment are not included in the price. The entrance fee is 0.60 USD (30 PHP), and you need to sign a waiver. To reach Osmena Peak, you can ride a bus from the South Bus Terminal or rent a motorbike at the Dalaguete junction. Bus rides are around 2.14 USD (~106 PHP) while motorbikes cost around 2.02 USD (100 PHP) for a one-way trip.

3. Visit Dalaguete Beach Park

From the huge coconut trees to the blue sea, Dalaguete Beach Park is paradise indeed. The resort is accessible by bus and taxi, and the local government always keeps it beautiful for both locals and tourists. You can dip your body into the crystal clear water or just unwind on the soft sand and absorb the fresh breeze.

Dalaguete Beach Park is complete when it comes to facilities. If you have your own vehicle, there’s an area where you can park for only 0.40 USD (20 PHP). After bathing in the salt water, you can wash in the shower room for the same price as the parking fee. Traditional cottages are also available, which cost around 2 USD (100 PHP) per day.

4. Explore Kulabyaw Cave

Near Osmena Peak is another attraction that will show you nature’s true beauty and give you an adventurous experience. Kulabyaw Cave, which is also in Mantalongon, is home not only to unique rock formations, but also to bats and many other nocturnal animals. Over one thousand creatures can be spotted here. The place gets much darker as you trek further, so don’t forget to bring a flashlight to see all the gems inside. It’s also advisable to bring bottled water, since the hike can be a bit challenging. If you want to avoid the slippery trails, then you should explore Kulabyaw Cave during the dry season.

5. Learn about Dalaguete's history at Museo Sa Dalaguete in the Municipal Hall

Museo Sa Dalaguete (Museum in Dalaguete) is located on the second floor of the Municipal Hall, which was built in 1832. Be astounded by the well-preserved Spanish Colonial design of the building and the neighboring heritage structures, and then head to the museum to find out more about the town’s eventful history. The museum holds a wide collection of relics, dating back to the Pre-colonial, Spanish, American, and Japanese eras. You will see old coins, weapons, and other items that reflect the cultures of the past. Admission is free, but you can donate whatever amount you’d like for the maintenance of the museum. Don’t forget to bring your camera on your visit here.

6. See the Obong Watchtower

The Obong Watchtower is walking distance from Obong Springs, and it was built to monitor pirates and raiders during the Spanish period. Obong Watchtower is another site you should check out if you want relive the history of not only Dalaguete, but also Cebu. Seeing the abandoned structure made up of coral bricks is closest thing you will get to time travelling. Apart from the historical tower, the view of the beach and the surrounding trees will leave you in awe as well. Photographers will surely have a memorable time here. The site remains a popular among locals and tourists, so make sure you don’t skip it.

Time to explore Dalaguete

If you’re in the mood for a festival, then February 9 and 10 are the dates that you should keep in mind. It’s the celebration of the annual Utanon Festival, where parades, band performances, and street dance competitions are held. The festival is the town’s way of honoring the patron saint San Guillermo de Aquitania. It’s also the time where locals give thanks for the blessings they received. Nothing is more amazing than two days of positive vibes.

Whether you attend the festival or not, Dalaguete still promises a memorable sightseeing experience. Get away from the crowded cities for a while and see how marvelous the Philippine countryside is. We have just shared six attractions, but there are more to check out. Other famous spots include Mercado’s Peak, Gakub Spring, and the public park. As for the food, don’t forget to try out the deep-fried banana stuffed with ground meat. There’s also the beloved rice cake known as “bibingka,” which tastes even better with “latik” sauce. The sauce contains coconut milk and brown sugar.