Hit the trails of Sumilon Is., one of the best there is

Why not burn all those calories gained from eating at the buffet table? Sumilon Island is one of the enjoyable resorts that I’ve stayed in. For such a compact and small place, it has much to offer the visitor and hiking along its well marked trails is one. It will take you to various terrains, various elevations, stunning sea vistas and history!

There are three kinds of trails that are geared to various levels of stamina: beginners, moderate and advanced. I was confident of myself, having been trekking for a greater part of my life, I chose the advanced which is the longest of the three and brings you to the interesting parts of the island.

I walked alone, with just my cheap slippers, hiking past the villas and into the start of the rugged trail. It was hot and humid and the trails dry. Having an interest with spanish colonial era fortifications, I made a detour, which is covered by the moderate level trail to see the moro watchtower and the lighthouse. It was a trail that looks like direct from a scary movie with just the birds and movements of the branches making noises.

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I retraced my steps after seeing the two structures and one thing that greeted me was the beautiful scene of the unspoilt, undeveloped beach. It was quite dramatic! The light was low as it was early morning, the sea was moderately calm with the coming waves slowly inching to shore and it was one of the best views and memories that I have of this island.

Hiking farther, I realized that I was a bit foolish to not bring proper hiking shoes. My slippers were thinning out and as I entered the area with barren but sharp coraline rocks, the razor sharp stones were starting to cut through the rubber that I got scared I might be walking barefoot for the rest of the trail. But fortunately, that didn’t happen.

But again, the views were just stunning. There were wooden benches to stop and rest and admire the view. Some were under trees while others were just under the sun. But it was windy and the occasional sea spray reached me as waves crashed into the rocks below.

A few more meters and I entered the shaded area, walking under the canopy of branches. But what made this hike wonderful was the site of several age old and ancient trees, with gnarled roots and bent branches. Such is the condition of the inhospitable rocks, strong wind that for thousands of years, formed these beautiful looking trees.

I just followed the trail back to my villa and along the way, came up to a rock shelter that is now the grotto. A few more meters, Yamashita Cave was evident and I entered to marvel its insides. Not as deep as I thought it would be but still interesting.

Sumilon Island is just a delightful place! Hiking was one of the memorable activities there and it will make you love and appreciate nature more.

Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort
Sumilon Island
Bancogon, Oslob,
Cebu, Philippines 6025
sumilon@bluewater.com.ph
+63 32 3183129/318 9098
+63 917 6317512/+63 999 8858337
www.bluewater.com.ph