A Road Trip Around the Philippines' Largest Lake: An Unforgettable Adventure.

In the Philippines, there's a stunning body of water surrounded by lush mountains—the largest lake in the Philippines. This road trip will take you on a roughly 200 km journey around the lake, where you'll visit three unique attractions. Check out the map at the end of the article for the exact location and route. Ready, Set, Go! Budget: Approximately P2,478 per person for this incredible journey—great value for your money. Essentials: Pack sandals, swimwear, and clothes that are easy to change into. Sandals are practical for navigating varied terrain, and swimwear is essential for enjoying the water. Vehicle: We chose a Mazda 2 sedan for its compact size and maneuverability on the roads along the way. Starting with Art: Pinto Art Museum We set off at 8:30 am and arrived at a café near the museum a little after 9:00 am. We enjoyed breakfast in the cozy atmosphere, fueling up for a day of adventure. At 10:00 am, we entered Pinto Art Museum, a private museum dedicated to showcasing and researching contemporary Filipino art. "Pinto" means "door" in Tagalog, and the museum truly is a gateway to aesthetic appreciation and cultural awareness. The museum's seven galleries house over 200 exhibits in various styles. Strolling through the galleries felt like wandering through a galaxy of art, with each piece telling its own unique story. We were captivated and spent an hour and a half immersed in this artistic journey. Chasing Waterfalls: Hulugan Falls At 2:30 pm, we had a quick meal at McDonald's in Pagsanjan before heading to the Hulugan Falls Jump-off Point. An enthusiastic guide led us on a tricycle ride, followed by a 20-minute downhill hike, and then Hulugan Falls came into view. Unfortunately, the weather took a turn, and we were drenched by a sudden downpour as soon as we arrived. Even our drone couldn't take off. However, the rain couldn't diminish the breathtaking beauty of Hulugan Falls. The 70m (230 ft) cascade plunged from the lush cliff face like a delicate veil, a stunning blend of power and beauty. Lakeside Feast: Isdaan Floating Restaurant At 5:30 pm, we arrived at the exotic Isdaan Floating Restaurant, a whimsical Thai-inspired world adorned with extravagant Buddha statues, small monk figurines, and mermaid sculptures. The restaurant serves authentic Filipino cuisine, creating a unique and charming dining experience. There are many floating restaurants made of bamboo rafts, known as "balsa" in Filipino. We ordered crispy pata, the tangy and flavorful beef sinigang, and a generous seafood platter—all delicious. A guitarist played soft melodies nearby, and there were also captivating acrobatic performances. The combination of delicious food and entertainment provided the perfect ending to our lakeside road trip. From art museums to natural wonders and unique culinary experiences, every stop on this lakeside road trip was full of surprises. Pack your enthusiasm and curiosity, and embark on your own unforgettable adventure!