Let me let you know about my unforgettable highway journey journey to beat all Seven Lakes of San Pablo in Laguna! We began our journey at PITX in Pasay Metropolis, a bunch of journey buddies united by our love for exploring. With Señor Byahero, Joseph, Manilakad JP and Pure, Nomadic Experiences Marky, SJ the heritage information, and Johan our navigator/treasurer, we piled into our Isuzu SUV, able to hit the highway.
To see all seven lakes, some aspect journeys, and nonetheless have time to take pleasure in every spot, we strategized our route. First up had been the legendary twin lakes, Yambo and Pandin, through Nagcarlan. We even squeezed in a go to to the spooky Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery for a style of historical past.
Lake Yambo
I used to be mesmerized by Lake Yambo with its huge grassy banks and clear turquoise waters. It was serene and regarded excellent for a dip, although we opted for a enjoyable bamboo raft tour as a substitute. The tour took us throughout the lake for a refreshing swim and a few swinging motion on a rope swing – pure bliss! There’s additionally a brief path to peek at Lake Pandin’s magnificence from the opposite aspect.
Lake Pandin
Talking of Lake Pandin, this lake mirrored Yambo’s pristine allure, with extra guests attributable to its simpler accessibility. Legend whispers of two ill-fated lovers, Yambo and Pandin, without end shut however eternally separated by a strip of land – a really touching story.
Lake Calibato
Because the drizzle began to fall, we reached Lake Calibato. A brief hike alongside a rocky path led us to this fascinating lake, a haven for birdwatchers. Regardless of the rain, I noticed a shocking indigo-banded kingfisher and flocks of egrets and herons – a birder’s paradise! The lake itself, shrouded in mist, had a mysterious vibe. Native lore speaks of a diwata (fairy) who reworked the valley right into a lake out of anger – a cautionary story about respecting nature.
Lake Palakpakin
Subsequent cease: Lake Palakpakin. Whereas the lake itself is used for fish cultivation, we discovered a viewpoint from a small bridge the place a slim river flowed. Legend has it {that a} mysterious red-haired woman used to scrub her hair right here with an enormous fish. Intriguing!
Lake Mojicap
Lake Mojicap awaited us subsequent, with a gorgeous backyard as the doorway earlier than descending 105 steps to the lake. The story right here echoes Yambo and Pandin’s story, however this time it’s a toddler named Munica who disobeys and will get swallowed by the earth, forming the lake. The tranquil atmosphere, with mist evaporating from the placid water, was merely mesmerizing.
Lake Bunot
Leaving the legends behind for a bit, we reached Lake Bunot close to town middle. Right here, fish pens dominate the scene, however there are additionally open spots for fishing. The identify “bunot” comes from a humorous misunderstanding between a Spanish soldier and an area husking coconut by the lake!
Lake Sampaloc
Our grand finale was Lake Sampaloc, the most important and hottest among the many seven. A scenic promenade with cafes, eating places, and even lodging strains the lake. The native authorities has been working laborious to take away fish pens for a extra picturesque view, and the majestic Mt Banahaw and Mt Cristobal rising within the background actually full the image. Legend says an enormous Sampaloc tree as soon as stood right here in a stingy previous girl’s backyard, however a fairy’s curse reworked all of it right into a lake – a reminder of kindness.
This whirlwind tour left me breathless however with a coronary heart stuffed with surprise. The Seven Lakes of San Pablo are a treasure trove of pure magnificence and interesting legends. So, should you’re in search of a refreshing escape from town, pack your baggage and prepare in your personal seven-lake journey!
Useful resource for the Legends of the Seven Lakes http://sevenlakes.org.tripod.com/legend.htm
Journey Suggestions
- Dive into the immersive experiences of bamboo raft excursions and meals at Lake Yambo and Lake Pandin.
- Plunge into the swimmable delights of Lake Yambo, Lake Pandin, Lake Mohicap, and Lake Kalibato.
- Train warning at Lake Palakpakin and Lake Bunot, the place fish pens abound—excellent for fishing however not for swimming.
- Put together a modest entrance price of P10 or P20 pesos for Lake Yambo, Lake Pandin, and Lake Mohicap.
