Monday, August 15, 2011

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS


  NATURAL WEALTH OF WONDERS….

    SAN RAFAEL CAVE
( The Biggest Cave of Oriental Mindoro ) 

                      Nestled on the top of the mountain in Sitio Bintulagan,Brgy. San Rafael,Municipality of Roxas, are five caves, known as Bintulagan Cave, which ca be reached after a 45-minute hike from the National Highway, a distance of about 1.4 kms. There is only one major cave, for this purpose named the Limahong Cave is called such because according to the local folklore, this is where Limahong hid his treasures, It is a long cave, with several entrances/exits, one of which trav erses the length of the mountain range going to the nearby Barangay Happy Valley, a distance which required a trek of about 3 hours
 .

                     As you near the cave’s entrance, your first impression will be the smell of guano deposits. But this will be forgotten as soon as you enter for these, about 15 meters away, you will see an opening in the cave’s domed roof through which light enters in, and it’s really beautiful! Add to these the cool temperature, the silence and the natural rock formations some resemble human form so you get a feeling that you are inside a darkened chapel.

                    As you walk farther on, at about 25 meters from the entrance you will hear the cries and flapping of bat’s wing as they panic at the visitors’ entrance. They are so numerous that the caves had been a regular source of guano deposits which the cave’s owner then converts into organic fertilizer. Also at this point, a powerful light is needed because visibility is nil without one.

                      Still farther away, at approximately 50 meters from the entrance, you’ll need to pass through a narrow opening, just big enough one person, to get to the lagoon. Before you reach the lagoon, you will also pass several natural basins, formed just like the fabled Rice Terraces of Banaue, where water cascades from the one basin to another down to the lagoon. The level of water in the lagoon is about mid-calf during summer, but with the coming of the rainy season, the crystal clear water becomes knee-deep.

                              There are still mysteries hidden inside the caves which the more adventurous visitors can explore but some, reaching the lagoon is reward enough for the hike up the mountain.





































































































HAPPY VALLEY MOUNTAIN VIEW & PARAISO FALLS

                               
                                               To reach it, one has to hike 45 minutes from the village. The top of Happy Valley Mountain offers trekkers the relish of refreshing and magnificent view of the entire. Municipality and neighboring towns. Its scenic vista soothes tired souls and heavy heats. Amidst Happy Valley Mountain is the breathtaking Paraiso Falls. Secluded and unspoiled, It is unique with cool water coming from the spring on the top of the mountain. The falls is a series of crystal clear water that cascade down to a basin on mountainside gracefully flowing one tier to another. It is beautifully arranged like a flight of stairs surrounded by lush  foliage of green vegetation.  It is an ideal retreat haven for nature lovers.














                     SAN VICENTE ECO-FOREST AND RIVER TRAIL

                                The refreshing nature adventure with flowing waters encounter at the foot of panoramic view of green mountains at Barangay San Vicente. Explore the lush forest secluded by exotic flora & fauna which offer an oasis of peace, utmost trill & excitement. This destination is good for mountain climbing, camping, hiking, & river swimming.





















SPECIAL INTEREST SITES…

               
                PRESIDENT MANUEL A. ROXAS MUSEUM
                                
                             A landmark which offers the opportunity to know deeper the late Manual A. Roxas, the first President of the Republic of the Philippines and the third and last President of Commonwealth. Located at Roxas Gymnasium, it is also features collection of memorabilia and photo graphs of previous leaders of the municipality giving visitors a glimpse of bygone years of Roxas town for their appreciation.  Open from Monday to Friday and by appointment on weekends and holidays.









               
                     LITTLE TANAUAN FARMS AND PLANT NURSERIES

                                A wonderful and educational experience situated at Barangay Little Tanauan.  Visit an orchards and vegetables garden. Watch the harvester at work or bring home as basketful or your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables.




















                
                                DANGAY-DALAHICAN BEACH STRIP

                                A home to beach resorts ideal for fun, relaxation, retreat, lodging, seminar and conference. The favorite seaside hangout & picnic ground of the local. The wide stretch of gray sand beaches spanning the coastal village of Sitio Dalahican and Brgy. Dangay is good for swimming, sailing, fishing and other water activities.

























FESTIVAL AND CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS…


                                SIPAG FESTIVAL


                                A celebration of industry & inequity which is held every 25th of January.The awaited occasion that brings to fore the pride of the local people including their arts, talents, resources and product.The event is highlighted by joyous and colorful street dancing competitions and civica activities starting from sunrise to sundown.One will definitely enjoy the sweet smile, warm hospitality and local culinary treats.




































































               BUHID MANGYAN  CULTURAL VILLAGE

                     The home of indigenous people of Roxas unique distinct culture is located at Barangay San Vicente. The Buhid tribe settlement area is a short walk from Barangay proper. Here, visitors can interact with Mangyan way of life & can learn about their rich heritage. Ethnic handcrafted items are also available for souvenir.