Located on the southern end of Luzon, the Bicol region is home to some of the Philippines’ most iconic natural attractions. Besides the world-famous Mayon Volcano, notable volcanoes in the area include Mt. Isarog, Mt. Iriga, and Mt. Bulusan, which are affectionately known as Mayon’s “little sisters” by locals. Visitors will also find no end of caves, waterfalls, beaches, and springs to explore throughout Bicol. The best part is that many of the region’s natural wonders have been designated as protected areas and national parks to help preserve the local environment and biodiversity.

Nature lovers and adventure-seekers looking to visit Bicol would do well to make Naga City their base of operations. The city’s location in Bicol’s central province of Camarines Sur makes it an ideal jump-off point for extended explorations of the surrounding region. There are also plenty of nature parks and other natural sites both in and around Naga City proper. Book a stay at one of the many comfortable hotels in Naga City, and you’ll just be just a stone’s throw away from the beauty, tranquility, and rejuvenating atmosphere that only the natural world can offer.

Here are five natural attractions close to Naga City that you definitely won’t want to miss:

Mt. Isarog National Park

Rising to a majestic height of 1,966 meters above sea level, Mt. Isarog is the highest wooded mountain in southern Luzon. This dormant volcano and the surrounding land make up the Mt. Isarog National Park, one of the best-known tourist spots in Camarines Sur and also an important sanctuary for many of Bicol’s plant and animal species. The park also contains 16 rivers and more than 30 waterfalls, including the crystal-clear, 40-ft. high Malabsay Falls.

Mt. Isarog National Park is located a mere 30 minutes away from the urban hustle and bustle of Naga City. Visitors can take private cars or catch a jeepney from downtown Naga to the park, where a variety of enjoyable activities await them. You can enjoy a dip in one of the park’s many springs, hike its various nature trails, ride a bike, and go bird-watching. Seasoned hikers can even climb Mt. Isarog’s slopes for a breathtaking view of Mount Mayon and the Bicol Peninsula in the distance.

Haciendas de Naga

Haciendas de Naga is a family-friendly farm-style resort and masterplanned community located in Naga City’s suburbs, only a short drive away from the city center. With its peaceful, homey atmosphere and rustic charm, it’s an ideal destination for families with young children and city-dwellers looking for a taste of the slow life.

This isn’t to say that your time at the resort will be boring by any means, of course. On the contrary, you can look forward to choosing from among a wide and varied array of attractions and recreational activities, including biking, rappelling, camping, fishing, horseback riding, and even a safari adventure. Other notable facilities at the Haciendas include a golf course, wave pool, ATV racetrack, and full-service restaurant.

Panicuason Hot Springs Resort

Nestled deep within Mt. Isarog National Park’s verdant rainforests, Panicuason Hot Springs Resort is one of the Bicol region’s best-kept secrets. Resort guests access the property through a private road at the bottom of a forested valley, and the immediate surroundings teem with towering trees and gigantic ferns, giving the entire area a secluded, almost mystical atmosphere. Needless to say, it’s the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to escape the incessant noise and chaos of urban life for a day or two. 

At Panicuason Hot Springs Resort, you’ll find an assortment of natural pools, ranging in temperature from a scalding 39°C to a bracing 20°C. Wherever and however you choose to soak, these waters are the perfect remedy for aching muscles and tired minds. Don’t be surprised if you emerge from them feeling fully refreshed, rejuvenated, and almost like a new person, just as scores of local and international visitors have before you.

Naga City Ecology Park

One of the best things about Naga City is that you don’t have to venture far to find green spaces where you can enjoy some much-needed peace and quiet. Naga City Ecology Park is one such valuable space for local residents and nature-loving visitors. The multiple playgrounds and gardens located on the park’s 3-hectare premises make it a wonderful place for families to enjoy picnics, long walks, and outdoor play. The park’s large, landscaped eco-walk maze is one of its major highlights and promises children hours of fun exploring its many twists and turns.

Caramoan Islands

If you’re a beach-lover looking for a fix of good old Vitamin Sea, rest assured that Bicol won’t disappoint. You’ll definitely want to hop aboard a tour of the Caramoan Islands, which are the primary island-hopping destination for tourists visiting the region. Located off the coast of Camarines Sur, this small group of islands hides gorgeous white sand beaches, shimmering waters, and lush forests that will take your breath away. Whether you prefer to swim, snorkel, dive, or even hike the inland hills, you definitely won’t be able to get enough of your time in this little slice of paradise.

Naga City and the greater Bicol region are perfect destinations for travelers yearning to leave urban life behind for a while. The area’s serene atmosphere and copious natural beauty make it worth visiting far more than just once. If you’re planning to take a trip to the area, make sure to add the above-mentioned attractions to your itinerary.