UNVEILING THE HIDDEN GEMS OF CANLAON CITY
BY TREISHA C. ROVERO
KANLAON INLAND RESORT AND ECO-TOURISM PARK (KIRAET)
Located northwest of Barangay Malaiba, Kanlaon Inland Resort and Eco-Tourism Park is a hidden gem that houses a natural sulfur spring. To reach it, visitors will need to descend 136 steps amidst a backdrop of rolling hills and forest canopies. The journey itself is a feast for the senses and ends with a rewarding dip in the springs.
A 200-meter elevated concrete boardwalk offers easy access and panoramic mountain views for all visitors. This thoughtful addition ensures accessibility for everyone, including pregnant women, senior citizens, and persons with disability. Entrance, pool, and corkage fees are waived for them, too.
With three cold springs to enjoy, KIRAET provides ample opportunities to relax and unwind in nature. It's not just a destination; it's an experience that rejuvenates the soul.
MOUNT KANLAON
If there’s one thing that Canlaon City is known for, it’s Mount Kanlaon. It’s the city’s crown jewel and trademark, drawing
visitors to marvel at its majestic height.Mount Kanlaon is the highest peak in Visayas, with an
elevation of a whopping 8,050 feet above sea level. Avid hikers and mountaineers are permitted to scale up this active volcano, but will need to secure a permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Mount Kanlaon permits only 10 hikers per trip, with hikes subject to cancellation in case of bad weather or impending volcanic activity.
There are a total of five main hiking trails in the volcano, each symbolizing the colors of the Philippine flag. The first leg of the trail starts off with the Guintubdan trail, followed by the Mapot trail. Both trails offer undulating terrain and lush forest canopies, so don’t forget to stretch your legs and knees before starting!
Anyone who wants to reach its summit can do so after traversing more rugged slopes and terrain. Breathtaking views of Negros Island and beyond await any avid hiker who braves the ascent.
While reaching its summit is a feat worth patting yourself in the shoulder for, the adventure doesn't end there. Weary hikers can recharge in the hot springs scattered along its foothills after descending. From the hot spring waters of Mambukal to the rejuvenating pools of Bucalan, these natural wonders offer the perfect recharge after a day of exploration, allowing locals and tourists to soak in the beauty of Mount Kanlaon in all its glory.
BAO-BAO VIEWING DECK
For a panoramic vista like no other, everyone should pay a visit to the Bao-Bao Viewing Deck, located just 8.4 kilometers from the city bus terminal. Here, surrounded by the sprawling vegetable plantations of Barangay Malaiba and Barangay Pula, visitors are
treated to a 360-degree spectacle of Canlaon City’s beauty. The majestic silhouette of Mount Kanlaon towers large against the horizon, a reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits. A brief 15 to 20-minute walk leads to this breathtaking overlook, where every step is rewarded with jaw-dropping views that defy words. From the mist-covered slopes of Mount Kanlaon to the crystal-clear waters of Tañon Strait, the landscape stretches out before you in all angles, an ode to the timeless beauty of Canlaon City.
CENTURY-OLD BALETE (LUNOK) TREE
In the heart of Barangay Lumabao stands a witness to centuries gone by—the century-old balete (lunok) tree. This lunok treeis found in the middle of rice terraces and coffee plantations where people can hold picnics or celebrate events. With a history that can be traced back to 678 AD, this ancient giant stands
tall, bearing history to the city's rich culture and evolution. According to botanists from Siliman University, the lunok treeis estimated to be 1,300years old, and is nowhome to many insects,lizards, and even bats. Asdusk falls, the tree comesalive with the enchantingglow of fireflies, castinga mesmerizing aura overits surroundings andmaking every part of itmagical. But beyond itshistorical significancelies a sense of wonderand mystery that captivates the imagination of tourists. For the daring, a chance to capture a paranormal moment with the help of a local staff can be experienced through special effects of a phone camera which the LEAGUE team experienced first hand. It's an encounter that goes beyond time and space, a journey into the heart of the city's interesting past and vibrant present.
TREE PARK
Once a rocky landscape, now transformed into a serene sanctuary, the Tree Park near the city hall offers a relaxing atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life. Here, among the whispering leaves and rustling branches, locals and tourists can escape the cares of the world and reconnect with nature's rhythms. Wooden benches placed under the trees invite visitors to enjoy the tranquility of shaded areas and the calming sounds of nature. Whether seeking solitude or a picturesque backdrop for gatherings, this scenery welcomes all locals and tourists. Additionally, as the sun sets, it casts a golden glow over the landscape, creating an Instagram-worthy backdrop.
When nature is made accessible and taken care of, it weaves a chain of wonder and adventure for all who dare to exploreits depths and Canlaon City is where one should be. From the challenging slopes of Mount Kanlaon to the enchanting embrace of the century-old lunok tree, every corner of this destination holds a story waitingto unfold. So, makesure to include thesetourist destinationswhen you pack yourbags and set forthon a journey unlikeany other, where thebeauty of Canlaon Cityunfolds in full bloom.