TRAILS, TALES, AND THRILLS NEAR THE METRO

JUST BEYOND METRO MANILA, MONTALBAN—NOW RODRIGUEZ, RIZAL—BLENDS ADVENTURE, HISTORY, AND NATURE IN ONE BREATHTAKING ESCAPE. FROM MISTY MOUNTAIN TRAILS TO THE STORIED WAWA DAM, THIS HIDDEN GEM PROVES THE BEST GETAWAYS ARE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK.

Rodriguez, Rizal, has seen an upward trend in tourism thanks to the developments surrounding the Wawa Dam and the undulating terrain that attracts avid hikers from all over the country. To most people from the city, hearing the word “Rizal” entails mountains, hiking, and a long drive from the metro, but you don’t have to endure a long commute just to enjoy what the place formerly known as Montalban has to offer.

MONTALBAN HIKING SITES

Surrounded by lush mountains and breathtaking landscapes, this town is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. It offers a variety of trekking experiences, from steep mountain climbs to peaceful walks through quiet forests.

 Mount Pamitinan, Mount Binicayan, and Mount Hapunang Banoi are the town’s top three hiking destinations. With an early start and some stamina, you can conquer all three in a single day! For more seasoned hikers, Mount Parawagan in Barangay San Rafael promises a rewarding challenge. The trail winds through small streams and dense forests, unveiling panoramic views of rolling hills and the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains.

WAWA DAM

No visit to Montalban is complete without a trek to the iconic Wawa Dam, also known as Montalban Dam. Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, this historic structure carries tales of both innovation and resilience. Built in 1904 during the American colonial era, the dam officially began operations in 1909 as Manila’s primary water source. For decades, it sustained the growing city, but its significance extends beyond its role in urban development. In 1945, Wawa Dam became a World War II battleground, as American and Japanese forces clashed in what became known as the Battle of Wawa.

By 1968, the dam was decommissioned following the construction of Angat Dam, which could better meet Metro Manila’s growing water needs. Today, Wawa Dam stands as a scenic reminder of the past, offering visitors a refreshing escape into nature. Trek to the dam’s mouth, where a suspension bridge provides stunning views of the massive boulders below. For a more immersive experience, hop on a boat or bamboo raft near the entrance and drift along the tranquil waters, soaking in the beauty of this storied landmark.

PAMITINAN CAVE & BERNARDO CARPIO’S FOOTPRINTS

Crossing the suspension bridge that stretches between two towering mountains of the Montalban Gorge, you’ll find yourself at the entrance of Pamitinan Cave, a hidden limestone cavern nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre. From a distance, the cave remains concealed, but a short climb up stone steps will lead you to its storied threshold.

Once known as the “Cave of Bernardo Carpio,” this site is steeped in both Philippine folklore and history. According to legend, Bernardo Carpio, a mighty giant, was trapped between the mountains of Montalban and whenever he struggles to break free, the earth trembles. Locals claim that his enormous footprints are imprinted on the boulders below the bridge. Whether truth or myth, the story adds a sense of mystique to the landscape.

Beyond folklore, Pamitinan Cave holds a revered  place in history. On April 12, 1895, Andres Bonifacio and eight fellow Katipuneros gathered here to declare the Philippines’ f ight for independence from Spanish rule. The cave’s walls still bear the inscriptions “Viva la Independencia Filipina (Long Live Philippine Independence),” a rallying phrase that Bonifacio famously shouted while leading the Cry of Pugad Lawin and throughout the Philippine Revolution. Recognizing its significance, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines declared it a historic site on June 12, 1996.

While the cave’s interior is now sealed with iron gates, visitors can still explore its entrance and surroundings, taking in the echoes of both legend and history that linger in the air.

AVILON ZOO

For travelers with a soft spot for wildlife (hello, future zoologists and animal whisperers!), Avilon Zoo in Barangay San Isidro is the ultimate playground. Spanning a massive 7.5 hectares, this is the country’s largest zoological institution, home to over 3,000 animals across more than 600 species. Translation? You’re in for a full day of furry, feathery, and scaly surprises! Tickets for adult visitors start at Php800 per person, while children under three feet tall enjoy a discounted rate of Php600.

Step inside, and the first to greet you aren’t roaring lions or curious monkeys—it’s a kaleidoscope of freshwater fish swimming beneath the vibrant reception area, which sits atop a lake. Part of the welcoming committee is the arapaima (aka the pirarucu), the largest freshwater fish in the Philippines. A maze of aquariums nearby houses everything from piranhas and guppies to exotic Asian arowanas, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.

With 75 stations to explore, comfy shoes (and maybe a snack or two) are a must. The journey kicks off with small mammals, marsupials, and a parade of birds. As you venture deeper, you’ll meet herbivores, majestic birds of prey, and towering ostriches that might just challenge you to a staring contest. If you’re into reptiles, you’ll love the reptile stations, where crocodiles from around the world (including the elusive Philippine crocodile) lurk. Turtles, lizards, and snakes also make an appearance, and if you’re patient, you might even catch a live snake feeding.

As you continue, you’ll arrive at the large mammal stations, where you can meet B’hari, a Rothschild’s giraffe and one of the zoo’s most beloved residents. You can even feed him—along with the hippo and other large herbivores—for Php100 per bucket of fruits and vegetables. Further along, you’ll find deer, monkeys, a lone orangutan named Joey, and a section dedicated to bears. But here’s a pro tip: look up! A Bengal white tiger might just be perched above you, watching your every move. (No pressure.) As you wind through the apex predator stations, you’ll come face to face with Bengal tigers, leopards, jaguars, African lions, and more before the final stretch, where eagles, owls, and falcons signal the end of your journey. With so much to see, Avilon Zoo isn’t just a visit—it’s an unforgettable wildlife experience.

RENATO’S GARDEN RESTAURANT

When it’s time to recharge, Renato’s Garden Restaurant is the perfect hideaway for a hearty meal surrounded by lush greenery. Tucked just near the city center, this charming spot offers a bright and airy dining space enclosed by glass windows, letting in plenty of natural light. If you prefer an even closer connection to nature, their serene al fresco area—complete with a small koi pond—sets the stage for a peaceful meal.

Signature dishes like the crispy belly kare-kare, volcano beef ribs, lasagna, and kani salad are definite crowd pleasers, but there’s plenty more to indulge in. Their menu also features an array of sandwiches, vegetarian options, and comforting pasta dishes to keep you fueled for the day. And let’s not forget the refreshing fruit shakes—mango, pineapple, strawberry, watermelon, banana, and pineapple cucumber—all perfect for cooling down.

Need a little pick-me-up? Their coffee and tea selection pairs beautifully with light bites like crispy fries, calamari, a classic club sandwich, or their flavorful eggplant shrimp tapas. Whether you’re here for a full meal or a leisurely afternoon snack, Renato’s Garden Restaurant makes slowing down taste even better.

MONTALBAN SPORTS COMPLEX

If you’re visiting Montalban for one of its grand celebrations, chances are you’ll find yourself at the heart of the action—the Montalban Sports Complex. This sprawling venue isn’t just a sports hub; it’s the town’s go-to stage for festivals, concerts, and major municipal events. At its core, a massive multipurpose grass field plays host to everything from high-energy sports matches to vibrant cultural festivities. On any given day, you might spot schoolchildren rehearsing dance routines, athletes training on the track, or a full-scale event taking shape. Whether it’s a roaring crowd at a championship game or the buzz of a town-wide f iesta, the complex is where Montalban comes alive.