We asked our Cebuano friends to nominate the most underrated—yet worth seeing—places in the area
The northern part of Cebu is one of the most-visited areas in the region—from Carmen up to Daanbantayan. And you’d be hard-pressed to find a new destination on this island. There are, however, plenty of underrated tourist spots all over Northern Cebu that ought to be visited much more than they are. Thanks to its rugged mountains and lush fields, most places in Northern Cebu are worth exploring.
This month, it’s time to get a fresh perspective on the places that you should visit in the area—and why not start by checking out these five must-see destinations?
Hidden Spots in Northern Cebu
- Esoy Hot Spring
- Guiwanon Cold Spring
- Paharuhay Campsite
- Arapal Nature Farms
- Aisle of Medellin
1. Esoy Hot Spring
Photo Credit: @keenkinken on Instagram
Tucked in the jungle of Catmon, Esoy Hot Spring is the ideal destination for travelers looking for a quiet hot spring experience. You’ll have to drive along narrow cliffside roads, hike a bit, and cross a suspension bridge to get to this hidden hot spring resort. But the effort will make the “uy, ang ganda” even sweeter when you finally dip into a warm bath set in the middle of the forest. Some of the pools are enclosed by limestone walls overgrown with vegetation, so you don’t have to worry about roasting yourself under the heat of the sun while relaxing. Whether it’s the dry or wet season, a visit to Esoy Hot Spring offers a relaxing hot spring experience in a scenic setting.
Esoy Hot Spring
- Address: Catmon, Cebu
- Opening hours: Monday-Sunday, 9:00am-7:00pm
- Socials: Facebook
2. Guiwanon Cold Spring
Photo Credit: @k.soonix on Instagram
Located along Maslog Provincial Road in Tabogon, Guiwanon Cold Spring is a man-made pool that catches pristine water from an underground river of the nearby mountains. Once you’ve reached the spring, you will be welcomed by a large pool filled with turquoise blue waters. Naturally shaded by decades-old trees, the spring is perfect for a much-needed me-time or a simple family picnic. No matter how you spend your day in Guiwanon Cold Spring—either in groups or just a solo trip—the spring is definitely the spot to slow down and escape the city.
Guiwanon Cold Spring
- Address: Maslog Provincial Road, Tabogon, Cebu
- Opening hours: Monday-Sunday, 8:00am-7:00pm
- Socials: Facebook
3. Paharuhay Campsite
Photo Credit: @jvabasa on Instagram
Sitting on top of a hill in Tabogon, Paharuhay Campsite is a true wonder for both camping aficionados and casual travelers. The campsite can be your home for a few nights under a sky full of stars. The next day, you can emerge from the tent at sunrise to the sights and sounds of unspoiled nature. And if the weather is right, you can see a sea of clouds that only lasts for a few hours.
“Paharuhay” which translates to “let go of the things that bother you and enjoy the moment,” is just the perfect way to experience the panoramic views from the campsite. The atmosphere in Paharuhay is relaxing, and the area has a peaceful vibe that goes well with the subtle sounds of rustling leaves from the surrounding trees. Surely, there’s nothing quite like camping to stir up the popular notion of escaping the fast-paced life and getting back to nature.
Paharuhay Campsite
- Address: Paharuhay Campsite - iCentre, Central Nautical Hwy, Cebu
- Opening hours: Always open
4. Arapal Nature Farms
Photo Credit: facebook.com/ArapalFarms/photos/600539170654077
Do you notice how farms are becoming more popular nowadays? It seems that we always find our way back to nature and are drawn to farms and rest houses after spending almost two years in quarantine. A visit to Arapal Nature Farms might just be the refreshing change of scenery you need.
Nestled on the foothill of Lambusan in Bogo, Arapal Nature Farms is one of the off-the-grid destinations in northern Cebu that you can visit. You can see just how cool it gets by discovering different farming processes or climbing to the highest point of the farm—a vantage point offering views over an ocean of greenery. Midsummer nights are dreamlike at the open campground of the farm. Arapal Nature Farms also offer a goat milking experience, a workshop on organic farming, and an overnight stay that comes with all-organic meals.
Arapal Nature Farms
- Address: Arapal Hills, Anonang Sur 6010 Bogo, Cebu
- Opening hours: Monday-Sunday, 7:00am-5:00pm
5. Aisle of Medellin (Sugarcane Fields)
Photo Credit: @jak73 on Instagram
The scenery along the Central Nautical Highway will stop you in your tracks. Every Cebuano has heard of the Central Nautical Highway, but what makes the Medellin section so special? On a logistical level, the highway serves as a direct route to Cebu City or Bogo City—but the Medellin section brings a sightseeing-fuelled trip. Also known as the Aisle of Medellin, this particular section of the highway cuts across vast sugarcane fields. Certainly the best time to visit the place is during sunset, when the sky turns crimson-orange and creates an intense and dramatic backdrop to the plantation.
Aisle of Medellin (Sugarcane Fields)
- Address: Central Nautical Highway, Canhabagat, Medellin, Cebu
- Opening hours: Always open
