Beyond the Tourist Attractions: The Real Beauty of Bicol | PH Loop By Bike Ep2

Bicol is home to some of the most iconic destinations in the Philippines. From the majestic Mayon Volcano and the beaches of Caramoan to historic churches and famous food spots, there’s no shortage of places to visit.

But having lived in Naga and Legazpi years ago, we discovered that some of Bicol’s most memorable experiences aren't always found in travel guides. During our Philippine Loop bikepacking adventure, we revisited some of our favorite places and discovered a few new ones along the way.

Beyond the Famous Attractions

If it’s your first time in Bicol, we highly recommend visiting the region’s popular tourist spots. But if you prefer slower travel, scenic views, and local experiences, here are a few places worth adding to your itinerary.

The rice fields of Libon, Polangui, and Oas offer some of the most relaxing countryside views in the region. With cooler weather and wide open landscapes, the area reminded us of scenes from Bali and Vietnam. It's the perfect place to slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate rural Bicol at its finest.

Meanwhile, Siruma in Camarines Sur remains one of Bicol's lesser-known gems. Its quiet coastline, uncrowded beaches, and laid-back atmosphere make it ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds.

City Walks, Baywalks, and Mayon Views

Legazpi City continues to be one of our favorite places in Bicol. We love spending time at Sawangan Park, people-watching at the skate park, and taking walks along Legazpi Boulevard.

For us, Legazpi Boulevard offers one of the best unobstructed views of Mayon Volcano. Whether you're running, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenery, it's a place you'll likely want to revisit.

If you're a fan of Mayon, consider doing a Mayon 360 tour. Seeing the volcano from different angles gives you a greater appreciation of just how impressive it really is.

Further south, Sorsogon Baywalk and Rompeolas offer a similar waterfront experience, with plenty of local food options and beautiful sunset views.

Discovering Sorsogon's Hidden Treasures

One of the biggest surprises of this trip was Museo Sorsogon. Once a courthouse and jail, it has been transformed into a modern, artistic museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the province.

We were equally impressed by the Sorsogon Sports Arena, whose striking architecture immediately caught our attention. Originally intended to host the Palarong Pambansa before the pandemic disrupted plans, the facility remains a remarkable landmark.

For a quick beach escape, Tulong Gapo Beach is only a short ride from Sorsogon City. Aside from being a beautiful place to swim and relax, it holds personal significance for our family as it's connected to our father's hometown.

Why We Keep Coming Back

What makes Bicol special for us isn't just the scenery. It's the balance between nature, culture, outdoor living, and a slower pace of life. It's a region that matches the lifestyle we enjoy so much that we've even joked about retiring here someday.

Whether you're exploring by bicycle, motorcycle, car, or backpack, Bicol offers more than just postcard-worthy attractions. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from the places that aren't on everyone's itinerary.

👉 Watch the full vlog here: https://youtu.be/2QRjR9XF7D0