Kaliwaliw

Just a short drive from Metro Manila lies a peaceful mountain escape that feels worlds away from the city’s noise and rush. When my fiancée and I decided to spend a quiet weekend reconnecting with nature, we chose Mt. Balagbag in Rodriguez—and it turned out to be one of our most refreshing and scenic day hikes yet. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly hike with rewarding views, wide-open grasslands, and a relaxing atmosphere, Mt. Balagbag deserves a spot on your bucket list. First Impressions: A Gentle Giant Near the City Mt. Balagbag stands at around 760+ meters above sea level, making it one of the more accessible mountains in Rizal. Unlike forest-heavy trails, this mountain greets hikers with rolling hills covered in grasslands. The open landscape instantly reminded us of a mini version of Batanes—minus the long flight. As we began our ascent, we were surprised at how manageable the trail was. There are two main ways to reach the summit: by trekking or by riding a 4x4 vehicle o...

Discovering a Hidden Gem in Rizal As someone who considers myself an occasional hiker rather than a hardcore mountaineer, I am always searching for trails that offer rewarding views without being too physically overwhelming. One of the most memorable hikes I have experienced so far is Mount Hapunang Banoi in Rodriguez, Rizal. Known for its picturesque ridges, grassland trails, and stunning panoramic views, this mountain perfectly balances adventure and accessibility. Mount Hapunang Banoi stands at approximately 517 meters above sea level and is part of the rugged Sierra Madre mountain range. The mountain is well-known among beginner and intermediate hikers because of its scenic limestone formations, rolling hills, and open landscapes that provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. Based on my experience, I would confidently declare its difficulty level as 4 out of 10, making it ideal for beginners or casual hikers who want a fulfilling outdoor experience. Trail Experienc...