By Karyl Dequito

Photos by Ferdinand Macalisang

Beyond the vast valley of sugarcane, the Sugarbowl of the Philippines holds hundreds of sweet reasons for endless adventures. Negros Occidental is an enthralling place that rolls the old and the new generation into one great tourist destination.

The mayhem of the bygone era stood preserved and well-represented by the world-famous The Ruins. Traveling north will bring you to the timeless ancestral elegance that lines the streets of Silay City. Every municipality of the province has brag-worthy cultural influences that are unique and distinct to them.

Head over to the far south to the waiting majestic sugar beaches. Sipalay City is a popular tourist destination full of Instagram-worthy scenic backdrops of islands and foamy sea. In close proximity lies the Danjugan Island of Cauayan, a white sand marine sanctuary teeming with biodiversity.

Negros Occidental alone has countless beautiful travel spots best for filling the bucket list. Those who want to take a quick side-trip for unwinding and a cup of joe can head over to the inviting uphill selection of resto in Don Salvador Benedicto.

Somewhere, someplace, in the outskirts of the province lies many hidden gems that are slowly gaining public attention. Climbing the towering mountains is discovering the beauty in a bird’s eye view. Indulging in its pristine rivers offers a respite and cure for the aching soul.

Mambukal Resort

Mambukal Mountain Resort is almost a trademark tourist destination when people hear about Negros Occidental. Located in Minoyan, Murcia, the resort is accessible by public transport. The place is well-preserved surrounded by rich flora and fauna. It features many amenities like the bathhouse, picnic area, adventure hike to the falls, and a choice of a cold swimming pool or hot dipping pool.

The place has a bad reception which is great for people wanting to escape their realities for a while. Book a stay for the night and enjoy the serenity of the mountains that may hold you back for a couple more extended stays.

Campuestohan Highland Resort

You will never expect to find a place as fun and eclectic as Campuestohan Highland Resort in Talisay City. It flaunts many fun activities and amenities you will never run out of choices. The place keeps expanding and has all sorts of enjoyment tailored for people from literally all walks of life.

From the children’s park and pool to their famous zipline and sky bike, it takes adventure to a new level without even changing locations. A day of fun may not also be enough to satisfy your desire for fun. So, it’s either you stay in their overnight rooms or simply plan another return trip.

Danjugan Island

Danjugan Island Sanctuary offers an idyllic living that lets tourists reconnect with nature and re-think of their life’s purpose. It is by far the most purposive place to visit that does not only introduce visitors to the diverse marine life. The place also awakens a kind of encouragement toward environmental and eco-consciousness.

It does indeed, bring people closer to nature with many fun activities in tow. Visitors can go about snorkeling, diving, kayaking, birdwatching, or just learning about wildlife. It is one adventure where every visitor leaves with a story and a purpose to share for a lifetime.

Bambi Falls

In the suburbs of Binalbagan lies yet another jewel worth discovering. Take a daring motorbike or habal-habal ride from Barangay Bi-ao is the majestic martian-looking Bambi Falls. The towering cliff is clad in varying hues of orange and red, coated with green moss and a few vegetation. The whole scenic spot screams of natural artistry as if put together to make a perfect backdrop for the gushing falls.

Soaking in its clay and cold water is a reprieve from the strenuous trip. It is all worth its fun although concreting of access roads may scrap a little bit of the thrill over accessibility one day.

Wherever direction you are heading, the province has a reserved place for you. You will never run out of stories and experiences as you indulge in the greenery and adventures. You know how they say take the trip while in younger season. But in Negros everyone has a place reserved for everyone for the escapade that you deserve wherever you are in life./KD, WDJ