Fifty five kilometers northeast of TAGBILARAN CITY, the provincial capital of Bohol, is one of the most famous natural attractions of the Philippine archipelago.
Once, a total of 1,268 "CHOCOLATE HILLS" grew up from corals. Two were "stolen by men", carrying away sand and gravel for road repair in Carmen. Then, another of the hills wer fount partly "eaten" of fed, rather to concrete producing machines ..... ignoring that the National Committee on Geological Services has declared Chocolate Hills in 1988 as a National Geological Monument.
Due to the road conditions, the approximate travel time between Tagbilaran and CARMEN would be about 90 minutes or more.
After 213 steps up the hill, one can reach the observation deck on one Hill - with exquisite panoramic views - that is Chcoloate Hills as far as they eyes can see. The second Hill is home to a hotel with a restaurant, swimming pool and accommodations for up to 70 guests.
Why "Chocolate Hills"? Well, the grass turns to brown during the dry season - this like chocolate.
Diversions include an exciting boat ride on board the motorized pump-boats where meals are served on board, which is a different way of returning to the city.
Some twenty kilometers east of Tagbilaran is an amazing relict of blunder in planning - A BRIDGE TO "NOWHERE".
Nearby is the starting point for the boat rides down the LOBOC RIVER along palm-fringed banks inland, ending near the TONTONOAN FALLS which is so inviting to bath on with its cascading waters.
In Panglao Island, reachable thro a causeway from the main island, only three kilometers from Tagbilaran, is DAUIS CHURCH.
Once Dauis was invaded by pirates and the townfolk locked themselves inside the durch until they ran out of provisions and water. Then suddenly, a well appeared at the foot of the altar where people started drawing water. Surprisingly the water is absolutely fresh spring water even if the well was located only a fews meters from the sea.
Until now, it is still the main source of water for the people living in the church vicinity.
While in Bohol, a visit to BACLAYON is also a must. It is the oldest town in Bohol with the oldest stone church in the Philippines. It is only six kilometers southeast of Tagbilaran.
The 1595 Jesuit-built church hosts the Baclayon Museum. It is also a good rest area on the way back from Chocolate Hills to the city.
You can choice between "guided tours" starting in Tagbilaran and offered by travel agencies and tour operators. Or, you make your "own" trip by using public transportation within Bohol - by bus, jeepney and in some areas by tricycle (motor-bikes with side-car).
Alfred N. Bruckner A B N C - NEWS & COMMENTARIES Cebu City - Philippines
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