A NIGHT UNDER THE STARS: MT LANAYA

Located in Alegria, Cebu, Mt. Lanaya (720m) is known for its steep trails, dramatic cliffs, and stunning coastal views. As someone who loves both mountains and the ocean, camping at its peak was an experience I couldn’t pass up. The trail wasted no time—it was steep from the very beginning. Unlike gradual mountain hikes, Mt. Lanaya’s Legaspi Trail is an almost constant upward climb, requiring hands-and-feet scrambling over tree roots and loose soil. Since I was carrying my camping gear, the weight made it even more challenging. There were times when I had to stop, catch my breath, and remind myself why I was doing this. But with each rest, I got glimpses of the coastline far below, a preview of the breathtaking view waiting at the top. After nearly 2 hours of climbing, I finally reached the campsite. I was greeted with an unobstructed view of Alegria’s coastline, the vast Tañon Strait, and the silhouette of Negros Island in the distance. As the sun set, the sky transformed into shades of orange and pink, reflecting on the sea below. It was one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen. With no artificial lights around, the night sky came alive with thousands of stars, making me feel like I was on top of the world. I had nothing but the sound of the wind and my own thoughts. It was a humbling experience—just me, the mountain, and the universe stretched out above me. Camping at Mt. Lanaya was an unforgettable experience. The tough climb, the breathtaking summit views, and the solitude of sleeping above the sea made it one of my favorite camping trips. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, challenge, and coastal beauty, this mountain is definitely worth visiting.