Paradise Philippines: Presents Bicol

Located in the southern most part of the island of Luzon, Bicol is one of the major tourist destinations in the Philippines. The Luzon's southeastern-most peninsula, Bicol is home to world famous Mount Mayon, an active volcano with a perfectly shaped cone. The scenic Bicol region comprises of six provinces, namely Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate. There is a beautiful lake near the volcano that offers excellent conditions for diving. You can spot the world's tiniest fish in the lake. Bicol region is also known for its beautiful white sand beaches, ideal for sun bathing and relaxation.

Location
Bicol is located in southeastern-most peninsula of the famous Luzon Island. Legazpi City, capital of Albay, is the most important and centrally located city in Bicol region. Located at about 250 km from Manila, Legazpi is well connected by air, rail and road from Manila. The only train route in the Philippines connects Manila with Legazpi on the Bicol Peninsula in southern Luzon.
Prime Tourist Attractions
Mayon Volcano: Mt. Mayon is the most famous tourist attraction of the Bicol region. Located just north of Legazpi City it's an active volcano with a perfectly shaped cone. Its symmetrical slopes and ½ km circular crater offer breathtaking views to visitors. Nearby is the famous Philvocs Observatory and Museum that showcases Mayon's violent volcanic past. From its top, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Albay Gulf and other nearby towns.

Cagsawa Ruins: Cagsawa was a flourished town in the beginning of the 19th century. The 1814 volcanic eruption of Mt. Mayon completely perished the town. In attempt to save their lives, the people of Cagsawa fled to the famous church but couldn't escape the misery of the violent volcano. With a memorial church tower, the Cagsawa ruins are major tourist attractions in Bicol.

Tiwi Hot Springs National Park: Tiwi is an active thermal zone with beautiful hot springs, known to have medicinal properties. Tiwi also has the biggest Geothermal Power Plant in the region.

Busay Falls: It's one of the highest and most picturesque waterfalls in the Philippines. Cascading down in seven tiers from a height of about 800 ft, the scenic Busay Falls never fails to enchant its visitors with its spectacular views.

Sogod Beach: The exotic and beautiful Sogod Beach in Bacaycay is popular for its enclaves of white sands and azure blue waters with swaying coconut palms. It's the most popular beach in the Bicol region, offering ideal conditions for beach activities.

Other not to be missed tourist attractions in Bicol include Hoyop-Hoyopan Caves, Sinimbahan Ruins and Jose Maria Penaranda Monument.
Tourist Activities
Bicol offers a number of exciting activities to its visitors. Here, one can enjoy a range of leisure and recreational activities like diving, snorkeling, swimming, or trekking up to the famous Mt. Mayon Volcano. The beaches of Bicol including the exotic Sogod Beach in Bacaycay, offer ideal conditions for beach activities.