In the thousands of years since man first made Snowdonia his home, life in the region has changed almost beyond recognition. From Iron Age settlers and Roman invaders to Jacobean altruism and the Industrial Revolution, there’s no better way to learn about Snowdonia’s history than to pay a visit to one of Snowdonia’s many museums.

One of the wonderful things about Snowdonia’s museums is that they’re often situated in historic buildings, giving visitors a real sense of place and time that you’re unlikely to encounter in modern, purpose-built museums.

The following are ten of Snowdonia’s most fascinating museums, covering everything from Roman archaeology to early 20th century statesmanship.

1. Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery, Bangor

Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery houses some fascinating exhibits depicting the rich and varied history of North Wales. Exhibits include some fantastic Roman artefacts, including the finest Roman sword in Britain, and a wonderful furniture collection which includes a 17th century oak drawer chest.

2. On The Quay at Barmouth

On The Quay at Barmouth is three attractions rolled into one. Barmouth Sailors’ Institute, built in 1890, includes a Victorian reading room which still looks much as it did when it was built. Ty Gwyn dates to 1460 and was one of the earliest buildings to be built in the shelter of the anchorage. And Ty Crwn, built in 1834 as a lock-up, has two cells – one each for men and women.

3. Quaker Heritage Centre, Dolgellau

Entry to the Quaker Heritage Centre is free, and it’s worth a visit to learn about the Quaker community that once lived in Dolgellau, and the persecution they endured which led to their emigration to Pennsylvania.

4. Trefriw Woollen Mills, Conwy Valley

Take a free tour of the Trefriw Woollen Mills and see the working mill museum and turbine house. Trefriw are manufacturers of traditional Welsh bedspreads, tapestries and tweeds, and their shop sells a great range of products made on-site, as well as pure wool knitwear and sheepskin items.

5. Lloyd George Museum, Llanystumdwy

The Lloyd George Museum is based at the childhood home of David Lloyd George, Britain’s Prime Minister during the First World War. As well as telling the story of Lloyd George’s life, the museum includes a Victorian classroom where children can dress in Victorian costume and learn what life was like for Victorian children.

6. Almshouse Museum, Llanrwst

The Llanrwst Almshouse Museum is run as a community museum, safeguarding the Jacobean building in which it’s housed. Established in 1610 by Sir John Wynn of Gwydir, the almshouses provided homes for elderly members of the community until the 1970s, when they were deemed unfit for habitation. Now restored, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into hundreds of years of life in a typical Welsh market town.

7. Dinorwic Quarry Hospital, Llanberis

The Dinorwic Quarry Hospital was built for the 19th and 20th century quarrymen at the nearby quarry. This is one of Snowdonia’s most unusual museums, and includes a restored ward and operating theatre (with associated gruesome medical instruments), a mortuary and an original X-ray machine. This is one of the few hospitals of its kind in Britain, and is a fascinating attraction for all the family – except, perhaps, anyone who’s a bit squeamish!

8. Regimental Museum of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, Caernarfon

Caernarfon Castle is, in itself, a wonderful attraction that will keep you enthralled for many hours. But nestled in the Queen’s Tower, and part of the Chamberlain Tower, you’ll find an added attraction – the Regimental Museum of the Royal Welch Fusiliers. This museum houses a comprehensive collection of military memorabilia from the past few centuries, and tells of life in the Regiment from its beginnings to modern times. Exhibits include centuries-old uniforms and kit, and information about Britain’s most famous military campaigns and personnel.

9. Narrow Gauge Railway Museum, Tywyn

Part of the Talyllyn Railway, the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum is housed at Tywyn Wharf Station. The museum has an excellent collection of artefacts from over 80 British narrow gauge railways, including seven locomotives, tickets and signalling gear. There’s also a special exhibition dedicated to the Reverend W V Awdry, creator of Thomas the Tank Engine.

10. National Slate Museum, Llanberis

With slate playing such a big part in the history of Snowdonia, no visit to the region would be complete without a visit to the National Slate Museum. Situated in the original Victorian workshops of the Dinorwic Quarry, the museum tells the story of slate and what it was like to live as a quarryman in Snowdonia during the 19th century. The workshops are designed to look as if workers have literally just downed tools for the day, and the numerous talks, demonstrations and exhibits play out all the dramas of everyday life at the quarry.

About the author:

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region. Visitors to the website can also find out more about things to do in Snowdonia.

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Snowdonia is easily accessible by road and train from most parts of mainland Britain – and by sea or air from Ireland – so a few days in Snowdonia is one of the nicest ways to spend a bank holiday weekend.

Come rain or shine, and whatever your age, there is something for everyone in Snowdonia to help you spend a happy bank holiday weekend in beautiful surroundings. Here are our top five ways to spend a bank holiday weekend in Snowdonia.

1. Outdoors activities

Snowdonia is known as the UK’s number one outdoor activities centre, and with good reason; as well as lush mountainous countryside stretching as far as the eye can see, Snowdonia has a beautiful 200-mile coastline that’s perfect for bank holiday outdoor activities.

There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Snowdonia. Walking is one of the most popular; there are many excellent routes to follow, which include quiet country lanes, public footpaths, woodlands, beaches and, of course, mountains.

Top spots for walking include the Llyn Coastal Path, which takes in all the spectacular scenery of the Llyn Peninsula’s coast; Foel Ispri Path, near Llanelltyd, Dolgellau, which includes a 300m stretch that’s accessible to wheelchair users; and, of course, Snowdon, which has several paths ranging in difficulty from moderate to extreme.

If you’d rather see Snowdonia on two wheels, you’ll find many excellent cycle paths criss-crossing the region. One of Snowdonia’s most popular cycling spots is Coed Y Brenin Forest Park, where you can hire a bike on-site. You can also hire bikes at Beddgelert and cycle your way around some of Snowdonia’s most picturesque scenery.

Watersports are also very special in Snowdonia. From surfing and wakeboarding to sailing and white water rafting, watersports are a big deal in Snowdonia. As well as that dramatic coastline, we have countless rivers and lakes that are popular with watersports enthusiasts all year round. Top spots include the two beaches at Abersoch, the National Whitewater Centre at Tryweryn, and the National Watersports Centre at Plas Menai, Caernarfon.

2. Culture

If you’d prefer to spend your bank holiday weekend immersed in Welsh culture, you’ll find plenty of museums, galleries and theatres in Snowdonia to keep you occupied for a whole month of bank holidays.

Ty Siamas in Dolgellau is a museum with a difference; it’s dedicated to the history of Welsh folk music, and includes many hands-on exhibits, demonstrations and fun activities for the musically-minded. Galeri in Caernarfon hosts all sorts of events, like art exhibitions, concerts and workshops; as does Theatr Harlech, whose recent events have included sand sculpture workshops on Harlech beach. And if you want to immerse yourself in the Welsh language for a few days, book a residential course at Nant Gwrtheyrn, the National Centre for Language and Culture.

3. Time Travelling

A small confession: there isn’t a time machine in Snowdonia, so you won’t be able to take an actual trip through time. But we have enough castles, Iron Age remains, Roman ruins and other historic sites to give you a sense of Snowdonia’s heritage, and that’s the next best thing.

Our castles include Caernarfon, Harlech, Criccieth, Conwy, Castell Y Bere, Dolbadarn and Dolwyddelan – all have their own particular charm and they’re equally worth a visit.

Snowdonia has lots of historic houses, too, like Conwy’s Plas Mawr, Bangor’s Penrhyn, and the Llyn Peninsula’s Plas Yn Rhiw. And if you like your history really ancient, try the Roman ruins of Segontium at Caernarfon, or the remarkably preserved Tre’r Ceiri hill fort near Nefyn.

4. Shopping

No weekend away would be complete without a souvenir or two to take home, and you won’t be disappointed with the shopping in Snowdonia.

From the big-name shopping centre at Bangor to the local market at Pwllheli; from the potter’s co-op in Conwy to the craft workshops at Corris; from the farm shop at Glasfryn to the huge delicatessen at Llanrwst – Snowdonia is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re shopping for locally-brewed beer, gifts carved from millions-of-years-old Welsh slate, paintings inspired by the Snowdonia landscape or ice cream made to an old, secret family recipe – you’ll find it all in Snowdonia, and still have change for a few award-winning sausages.

5. Family fun

If all this sounds too adult-oriented, don’t worry – there’s plenty going on in Snowdonia for children, too. Smaller children will love Gypsy Wood near Caernarfon and Dwyfor Ranch Rabbit Farm and Animal Park, Llanystumdwy (even adults have been known to ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ at the baby animals). Kids of all ages will appreciate Greenwood Forest Park, the eco-friendly amusement park with its human-powered rollercoaster. And King Arthur’s Labyrinth at Corris is fun for all the family, with its underground boat trip punctuated by tales of King Arthur’s adventures.

About the author:

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region. Visitors to the website can also find out more about things to do in Snowdonia.

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Towering mountains, mile after mile of sand and shingle coastline, and open countryside as far as the eye can see. That’s probably what you see in your mind’s eye, when you think of Snowdonia. Not a huge amount to keep smaller children entertained, you might think… but you’d be wrong!

In fact, as well as being the UK’s number one activity centre, Snowdonia is a fantastic holiday destination if you’re travelling with children. All over the region you’ll find plenty to keep the younger members of your family entertained, whatever the weather – here are ten of our favourites.

1. Gypsy Wood Park

Gypsy Wood Park, just outside Caernarfon, is a great place to visit if you’re travelling with children. There’s a wonderful petting farm where your children can meet llamas, ducks, rabbits, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys and Shetland ponies – among others. There’s a fantastic model railway featuring some of the great little trains of Wales. And there’s also a lovely half-mile wetland walk through marshes and woodland – so bring your wellies and don’t forget to look out for fairies!

2. Shell Island

Shell Island is at Llanbedr, just south of Harlech. This little peninsula on Cardigan Bay has three gorgeous bathing beaches, one of which is backed by some of Wales’ tallest sand dunes. There are shops and restaurants on-site, but the biggest attraction for children is the shells which give the peninsula its name; over 200 species of shells can be found at Shell Island, some of which are so tiny that you can only see them with a magnifying glass.

3. Yr Hwylfan

Yr Hwylfan – or The Fun Centre – in Caernarfon is a popular attraction for children visiting Snowdonia. Set in a converted church, Yr Hwylfan offers 14,000 square feet of family fun. With its giant drop slides, ball pools, bridges, tubes, maze, climbing walls, nets and ropes, Yr Hwylfan is the perfect place to let your little ones run riot in a safe environment. There are also special areas for toddlers, so your tiniest children won’t feel left out.

4. Greenwood Forest Park

Greenwood Forest Park is an amusement park with a difference: all the rides are powered by you! This includes the famous Green Dragon, the world’s first people-powered rollercoaster. There are many excellent rides for children to enjoy at Greenwood, as well as a den building area and plenty of family-friendly entertainment and craft activities.

5. Coed Y Brenin Forest Park

Coed Y Brenin, near Dolgellau, is a perfect spot for keeping children active. There are many waymarked walking trails, and a variety of cycle paths suitable for all abilities; bring your own bikes, or hire one from the hire centre. Kids will also love the tiered adventure playground, and the guided walks and craft activities provided by the Forest Junior Rangers Club.

6. Barmouth Beach and Funfair

Barmouth is one of those wonderful, typically British, seaside resorts loved by visitors of all ages. Beautiful sandy beaches backed by stunning mountain views, a good old-fashioned promenade, ice creams and plenty of lovely gift shops are just some of the attractions at Barmouth – but kids will especially love the small funfair, which has rides that are ideal for smaller children.

7. The Play Centre

New to Bangor is The Play Centre, a fun attraction for families. As well as dedicated toddler zones and junior zones for younger children, there’s a mini football pitch where children of all ages can enjoy a kick-about. While the kids are enjoying themselves, parents can relax in one of the comfort zones with complimentary newspapers and magazines and free wi-fi.

8. Dwyfor Ranch

Dwyfor Ranch Rabbit Farm and Animal Park is at Llanystumdwy, near Criccieth. At the Ranch your little ones will have a lovely time cuddling rabbits, guinea pigs and puppies, and hand-feeding pygmy goats, alpacas, donkeys and lambs. There’s an on-site cafe if you’d like to grab a snack during your visit, and there’s also a lovely picnic area if you’d prefer to bring your own lunch.

9. King Arthur’s Labyrinth

King Arthur’s Labyrinth is an exciting underground adventure for all ages. Take a boat ride through ancient caverns as you hear tales of the adventures of King Arthur and his knights. This is a delightful attraction for young and old alike; atmospheric, exciting and lots of fun.

10. Piggery Pottery

Piggery Pottery, Llanberis, is an unusual attraction but one that will keep small children quiet for hours on end. You can buy plain piggy banks and masks for your children to paint and decorate with all sorts of glittery goodies on-site, which they’ll be able to take home with them. But you can also buy professionally decorated piggy banks, night lights and other beautiful children’s pottery items at the Piggery Pottery shop.

About the author:

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region. Visitors to the website can also find out more about things to do in Snowdonia.

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Palawan, the largest province in the Philippines, in terms of total area of jurisdiction, is akin to paradise on earth. Located on the western border of the country, this island province is one of the most popular travel destinations among local and international tourists. With its long coastline and pristine beaches, water activities are a big hit in Palawan. One of the ideal recreations when vacationing in this island paradise is snorkeling.

Here are some of the best snorkeling sites in Palawan.

Miniloc Island

Miniloc Island is one of the top places of interest in El Nido, a first-class municipality in Palawan. The island, which is set in a cove with a backdrop of limestone cliffs, is known for its crystal-clear water that is ideal for snorkeling. While underwater, enjoy a visual treat of marine life such as sergeant major, damsel fish, fusiliers, and other multi-colored tropical fishes. Accommodations are not a problem here, as it houses a number of resorts offering first-class vacation packages in Palawan.

Coron Island

Coron Island in northern Palawan is one the most famous tourist getaways in the province. Aside from its bleach-white sand beaches, the island is considered a diving paradise because it is the site of several Japanese shipwrecks during World War II. Coron Island is blessed with diverse marine resources such as jacks, snappers, surgeon fish, barracudas, Spanish mackerels, and others.

Taytay Bay

More snorkeling adventures are in store for visitors in the municipality of Taytay. There are four marine sanctuaries around Taytay Bay, making it a diver’s paradise. They are the Tecas Reef Marine Park and Fish Sanctuary, Isla Blanca and Quimbaludan Marine Reserve, Elephant Island and the Hidden Lagoon, and Apulit Island – Club Noah Marine Protected Zone. One of most-sighted fish species in the area is dugong (sea cow). Other colored fish and small rays can be found in Taytay Bay.

Dilumacad Island (Helicopter Island)

Another popular destination in El Nido is Dilumacad Island. It is popularly known as Helicopter Island because its limestone cliffs resemble a helicopter when viewed from a distance. The beach on this island is perfect for snorkeling due to its shallow water. A lot of small fishes and crabs can be found in Dilumacad Island.

Honda Bay

Honday Bay is the pride of Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan. Within the bay, there is a sanctuary reef that is ideal for snorkeling and diving. Awaiting visitors in Honday Bay are schools of different fish species and various types of corals such as brain corals, staghorn corals, and others. Another attraction in this area is watching large fruit bats coming out of their holes soon after the sun sets.

About the author:

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with
Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

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One thing that sets the Philippines apart from other travel destinations in Asia is its abundant natural resources. The “Pearl of the Orient,” an archipelago comprising some 7,107 islands, is becoming the leader in ecotourism in the Asia-Pacific region. With more than 600 bird species living in the country, no wonder the Philippines is one of the favorites among local and international birding enthusiasts.

Since the Philippines is located in the East Asian Flyway of migratory birds, this Southeast Asian country is an important destination for many bird species, including those considered threatened. So what are you waiting for? Grab those binoculars and embark on a birdwatching trip to the Philippines. Here are some of the recommended sites to discover the beauty and diversity of Philippine birds.

Rasa Island

While exploring various attractions in the island paradise of Palawan in southern Philippines, don’t forget to visit Rasa Island. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2006, the island is home to the critically endangered Philippine cockatoo. Rasa Island, which was declared as one of the top birdwatching destinations in the country by the Department of Tourism, also serves as breeding ground to black-nape oriole, white-vented shama, racquet-tailed parrot, and rufous-tailed tailorbird, and other exotic bird species.

Candaba Marsh

Discover your love with birds with a trip to Candaba Marsh in the province of Pampanga. To encourage more birdwatchers in the area, the local government developed a former fish pond into a bird-watching site. Candaba Marsh, which is only a two-hour drive from Manila, is home to purple heron, great egret, little egret, white-browed crake, purple swamphen, and pheasant-tailed jacana. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a chance to see little ringed-plover, blue-tailed bee-eater, artic warbler, pacific swallow, and the pied fantail.

Subic

The vast areas of undeveloped land in this former US Naval Base are known for its impressive number of bird species. Experts said there are more than 100 different types of birds in Subic, one of the top 13 birdwatching sites in the Philippines. Covering a total land area of 287.16 square kilometers, Subic accounts for 15% of all bird species throughout the country and 29% of all birds in Luzon. Some of the bird species found in Subic are the crested myna, barred rail, green imperial-pigeon, and blur-throated bee-eaters.

Balanga

Another certified birdwatching paradise in the Philippines is Balanga. This second-class city in the province of Bataan has been attracting tourists in the coastal villages of Tortugas, Sibacan, and Porto Rivas. The three areas are well-known for its feathered inhabitants, including the black-headed gull, great egret, little egret, and whiskered tern. Rare bird species such as the Asian Golden Plover and Kentish Plover also nest in Balanga.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

About the author:

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing professionally since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

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The age of chivalry to which so many Welsh castles belong evokes romantic images of heroic knights winning fair ladies’ hands. But when you look at the design and construction of Snowdonia’s medieval castles, it’s clear this wasn’t a romantic age at all, but one of hardship and brutality.

Snowdonia’s castles tell the story of the region’s struggles for independence from the English crown, and some of Snowdonia’s best-known castles were built by the English king, Edward I, in an effort to subdue the Welsh.

But the Welsh princes were also prolific castle builders; Snowdonia’s Welsh castles provided protection and served as inspirational symbols of the Welsh struggle for independence.

In Victorian times, wealthy land owners looked to the past for inspiration in creating homes that portrayed wealth, status and power; consequently, Snowdonia is dotted with beautiful neo-Norman castellated mansions that ooze character.

1. Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle was arguably Edward’s finest castle in Snowdonia, costing £25,000 to build – a vast sum in medieval terms. The bands of red sandstone built into Caernarfon Castle’s walls are said to imitate the walls of Constantinople. Caernarfon Castle and town walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle – another of Edward’s castles and also a UNESCO World Heritage site – was begun at the same time as Caernarfon Castle, in 1283. It took ten years to complete the castle, which is built on a base of bare rock surrounded by marsh and water. The castle’s eight fortified towers rise up over Conwy, providing stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.

3. Criccieth Castle

Criccieth Castle is one of the great Welsh castles of Snowdonia, built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth and later extended by Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Edwards I and II remodelled the castle, and there is still dispute as to which parts of the castle are Welsh and which are English. Perched atop a rocky promontory that juts dramatically into Tremadog Bay, Criccieth Castle is a spectacular sight from ground level, and views from the castle across the bay and the surrounding countryside are absolutely breathtaking.

4. Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle – another UNESCO World Heritage site – has been described as “the definitive Welsh castle”, although it was actually built by Edward I. Harlech fell to Owain Glyndwr in 1404, and was his headquarters for the duration of his uprising. During the Wars of the Roses Harlech was held for the Lancastrians, enduring an eight-year siege which inspired the song “Men of Harlech”.

5. Castell y Bere

The ruins of Castell y Bere, near Tywyn, are often overlooked by visitors. But here you’ll get a great sense of the history of this part of Snowdonia, and the might of the Welsh princes. From the remains of the rectangular tower you’ll get the best views of the layout of the castle, and of Cader Idris, the brooding mountain overlooking the ruins.

6. Penrhyn Castle

Penrhyn Castle, just outside Bangor, is a castellated mansion which extends from the original medieval manor house in an extravagant display of Victorian wealth and status. Penrhyn’s exterior is imposing and impressive; its interior beautifully carved and vaulted like a medieval cathedral. Penrhyn Castle also houses a wonderful art collection and railway museum.

7. Dolbadarn Castle

The remains of Dolbadarn Castle, near Llanberis, are an evocative sight. Built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth before 1230, Dolbadarn stands in a strategically important spot, which historians believe was the site of a 6th century fortress. Dolbadarn is distinguished by its mighty tower, whose remains stand at 40ft. The floors have long since disappeared, but you can still climb the stairs to the top.

8. Dolwyddelan Castle

Like Castell y Bere and Criccieth, Dolwyddelan is a Welsh castle built by the Welsh. Dolwyddelan was built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth, some time after 1200, and was defended against Edward I by Llywelyn’s grandson Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Like other Snowdonia castles, Dolwyddelan is in a beautiful setting with amazing views, so make sure you take your camera.

9. Bryn Bras Castle

Bryn Bras Castle, Caernarfon, is the work of Thomas Hopper, creator of Penrhyn Castle. Bryn Bras is privately owned and so is not open for visits, but you can rent a holiday apartment within the castle and enjoy a stylish break in beautiful and historic surroundings.

10. Castell Deudraeth

Part of the Portmeirion estate near Porthmadog, Castell Deudraeth is a 19th century castellated mansion built by David Williams, the first Liberal MP for Meirioneth. Castell Deudraeth was once used as a prep school, but in 2001 opened as a luxury hotel and restaurant. Visit Castell Deudraeth as part of your tour of Portmeirion, or book a table for a delicious dinner of local produce cooked to perfection by expert chefs.

About the author:

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region. Visitors to the website can also find out more about things to do in Snowdonia.

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Aside from its strawberry farms and cold weather all year-round, Baguio City is also known as a horseback riding haven. Dubbed as the summer capital of the Philippines, this city in northern Luzon never ceases to attract local and international visitors due to various tourist attractions and recreational activities the city has to offer. Some said one way to explore Baguio is to ride a horse en route to some of the city’s top scenic spots.

A famous trail ride in the “City of Pines” is the one originating from the Wright Park, which is located across The Manson (the official summer residence of the Philippine president). Experts said the Wright Park, which is often mistakenly called the “Ride Park,” is the ideal place for horseback riding beginners. Horse-renting services are also offered beside the Baguio Country Club and inside Camp John Hay.

Historical data show that Baguio, which is home to more than 300,000 people, was a cowboy country long before the Americans built the city hundred years ago. Now I know why horseback riding is popular in the city. The recreational activity is not only a source of income for horse owners and the so-called pony boys (guides) but also a foundation of the city’s rich heritage.

The following are some of the famous horse trail rides in Baguio. Horse rental rates start at Php 300. Several hotels in the city include horseback riding in their vacation packages.

Mines View Park

Located four kilometers from downtown Baguio, the Mines View Park provides a breathtaking view of the nearby valleys and mountains in the city. Horses are allowed to pass through the Gibraltar Road and several residential streets but they are prohibited from passing in front of The Mansion. A one-hour ride will cost you at least Php 300.

Marlboro Country

This trail ride is among one of the famous in the city. Tourists will pass through the Ambuklao Road while enjoying a splendid view of a green plateau. This area allows visitors to experience what a real cowboy does.

Japanese Trail

It is like hitting two birds in one stone. While enjoying a relaxing horseback ride, tourists follow a route taken by Japanese soldiers shortly before World War II ended. On the way down, horses will pass through a residential area near the Ambiong Road.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

About the author:

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

This article has been viewed: 105 times

The Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan is one of the top travel destinations in the Philippines. Comprising 123 small islands, this UNESCO Heritage Site covers an area of 18.44 square kilometers.

Getting There

Several public bus lines such as Victory Liner and Five Star have direct trips to Alaminos City, where the Hundred Islands is located. Estimated travel time is about five hours. From the terminal, you can take a tricycle to get to the Lucap Wharf (you can take a tricycle to Lucap Wharf). It will then take you around 20 minutes to reach the nearest islands.

Although Pangasinan is home to several fascinating beaches, there are (still a lot) more to do at the Hundred Islands than getting wet under the sun in Bolinao and Anda. Some of these are:

Island Hopping

Boats operated by the local government are used to transfer visitors/tourists from one island to another. A tour guide usually accompanies them during the boat ride, which costs between Php 800 and Php 1,500.

Snorkeling

Snorkel rentals are also available at the Quezon Island, one of the commercial islands in the national park. Visitors can enjoy a visual treat of numerous underwater creatures such as giant clams and manta rays.

Parasailing

If you like extreme adventure, parasailing will definitely make your Hundred Islands’ trip complete. Enjoy a fabulous aerial view of the national park while you are being towed behind by a small motor boat. Parasailing experts will guide you on how to make the perfect glide as well as ensure your safety from start to finish.

Swimming

The shallow waters of the Hundred Islands make it the perfect swimming venue. Don’t know how to swim? Worry not. Life vests are provided for everyone as part of the travel package.

Aside from the above-mentioned activities, you can also enjoy other activities like camping, bird-watching and sunbathing in the Hundred Islands, one of the premier travel destinations in the Philippines.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

About the author:

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with
Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

This article has been viewed: 87 times