This is a paradise with a long stretch of fine white shoreline and green palm trees on the side. Nilandingan Cove is on Cagbalete Island where we celebrated our 9th anniversary. Though it's a tiring 4-5 hours of land travel from Manila, we were greeted by its remarkable scenery. Upon arrival, we discovered that this paradise is not just about the shoreline, it also has crystal clear and cool waters, lovely cottages, and a relaxing ambiance.
How to Get to Nilandingan Cove: We chartered a van to Mauban, Quezon. Then, chartered a boat to the resort. The caretakers of the resort greeted us with a smile and offered a welcome drink before we checked in. The resort has a wide land area and is surrounded by hardwood trees that create a relaxing ambiance, and at the same time, the tranquility is preserved. There is green grass where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the magnificence of nature without too many people.
The beauty of Cagbalete Island: The resort has a common kitchen but we were the only group who used it. It was the spot where we reminisced about our past. We recalled the stories of happiness and the not-so-happy events we encountered in the past 9 years. Though we're not complete, our memories with all the members were intact. It was really unlimited story telling while preparing for our lunch, during our lunch, and even after lunch. Rested for 30 minutes and started preparing for our milk tea by Rio.
Camping by the beach of Nilandingan Cove: The facility is not like your preferred 5 five-star hotel or resort, but this resort has everything, from the unlimited fresh water supply, kitchen area, and clean toilets and baths. There is electricity supply from a generated set; however, the supply is limited from 6PM to 6AM. The villas and cottages have electric fans, power outlets, mattresses, and pillows. This accommodation can fit for 5-6 people, with regular size.
The best part of Nilandingan Cove is the stunning and spectacular sun set and sun rise. Your lazy afternoon can will be extended until the sun set because of the cool breeze while the sky turns its color to a mixture of blue, gray and stunning gold. Also, during low tide, the narrow stretch of shoreline became wider and wider as in super wide. On the other hand, this part of the Island has a full and wide view of the sun rise (photos below).
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| Photo of golden sunset, Nilandingan Cove. |
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| Photo of the gorgeous Cagbalete Island. |
I left Nilandingan Cove with a new memory, a memory that cannot be replaced and a memory that will definitely be cherished as I face different stages of life. Batang Hamog Mountaineers is not a group; it is my extended family. Leaving this paradise will not be the end; we might not see each other in a few months, but our love and friendship will not be tarnished by time.