Have Fun Under the Ilocos Sun!
By Jekelyn Nisola
A place where nature and history collide, Ilocos remains one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. From its famous white beaches in Pagudpud to the gigantic windmills in Bangui, from the good formations of sand dunes in Paoay to the historical streets of Vigan, Ilocos is just the perfect place to rest and have fun!
If you’re heading north, start your summer adventure in these top 10 attractions in Ilocos:
- Laoag Sand Dunes
Your visit in “The Desert of the North” won’t be complete without a 4×4 adventure ride to enjoy the breathtaking views of the desert, the sand dunes, and the sea.
- Bangui Windmills
They’re not just one of Ilocos’ iconic tourist destinations, these windmills also provide an alternative source of energy for its residents. From only 20 windmills several years ago, they have grown to over a hundred scattered around the province.
- Calle Crisologo
Who would miss the famous street in Vigan? At Calle Crisologo, heritage houses are alongside its cobblestone streets, where kalesas and their kutseros pass through. It’s one of the more touristy areas in Vigan.
- Paoay Church
The Saint Augustine Church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the Philippines. It’s an example of an “Earthquake Baroque” architecture that took almost two decades to complete. Its three-storey bell tower on the side was made of coral stones and said to have been used as an observation post of the Katipuneros during the 1896 Philippine revolution and the Filipino guerillas during the World War II.
- Patapat Viaduct
It’s the most photographed highway of Ilocos, built on the side of the Ilocos Norte mountain range with breathtaking views of the Pasaleng Bay.
- Saud Beach, Pagudpud
Saud is often compared to Boracay for its long stretch of fine white sand beach and crystal clear water.
- Pagburnayan
A trip to Vigan wouldn’t be complete without trying your hand at clay pottery. Fidel Antiporda Go is a National Folk artist who has mastered the art of high-heat pottery.
- Tan-ok Festival
It’s an annual commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, where all participating municipalities showcase their best representations of their stories through the art of dance.
- Bantay Church and Bell Tower
The Bantay Bell Tower is one of Vigan’s most iconic spots. It once served as the town’s watchtower before it was turned into a bell tower next to Bantay Church in 1857. Make sure to strengthen your knees before climbing up the stairs of this old bell tower.
- Kapurpurawan Rock Formations
Kapurpurawan comes from an Ilocano word “puraw,” which means white. It’s quite evident why the place was named as such because most of its rock formations are white. Indeed, one of the must-see attractions in Ilocos.
Ilocos has so much to offer both foreign and local tourists. If you’re planning to visit the north this summer, your trip for two is on us if you win our currently running “Win a Trip for Two to Laoag-Vigan-Pagudpud” promo, in partnership with Geortravel Tours and Services.
The Author
