Tagatay

What is there to see?

Tagatay is where the rich people in Manila enjoy the weekend! Fresh mountain air, fantastic views, golf and fine dining. Most tourists take in the fantastic views and then drive the for an hour to the coast of Lake Taal. You then get a boat across the lake to the Taal Volcano. You usually get pretty wet, but they provide you with plastic covers! Next you hire a horse (I would advise against walking) to reach the summit. At the summit you can enjoy a cold drink and look into the smouldering volcanic crater! The very adventurous even go down into the crater, but the steps are not well maintained and I would advise against this. When you return home be sure to pick up some cheap and very fresh fruit from the stalls you see along the road.

First take in the view of the volcano from the highlands.

Travel down to the coast of the lake and grab a boat across the waters to the volcano.

Take a horse up the hill. Try to negotiate on the price.

Take in the view os the huge crater lake and see steam rising from the rocks on the rim!

After the volcano trip head back to the highlands, maybe enjoy a cup of the locally produced coffee!

Or perhaps pamper youself with a massage or spa. Sonya's Garden is particularly famed for this!

At lunch, or in the evening, why not treat yourself to a meal at the much talked about Antonio's. It is away from the Ridge, but you'll enjoy very fine dining in old Spanish style. The restaurant building and gardens are wonderful. You'll need to book in advance (ask your hotel or call the restaurant on 0918 899 2866). There are also many very affordable places to eat in Tagatay that have a good view.

On your way home you'll see a lot of pinapple plantations. Why not buy some fruit - it's very cheap from the stalls that line the road!

Where do I stay?

There are many choices from cheap to moderately priced accomodation, which often comes with a view.

How do I get there?

Hire a car and a driver to take you there for the day. About 3500 peso should cover it (plus tolls and food for the driver). Many taxi drivers will take you there from Manila if you arrange in advance. It takes an 1.5 to 2 hours from Manila depending on traffic. If going for just a day trip leave very early and come home late. You can also get there by bus very cheaply, but this is for people more travelled and with more time to play with.

How long shall I stay?

Tagatay is good for a weekend, but can be done in a day if you get up early!

Tips and Comments

Try and use official hotel tours to go to the Taal Volcano or arrange yourself and barter on price for the boat and horse. Try to avoid using vendors on the streets of Tagatay - they may appear cheaper but by the time they add on additional charges for car hire, gas, fresh air etc, that you thought were included, you'll be out of pocket!