Mayon Volcano’s majestic peak, the aroma of Laing simmering in coconut milk, and my father’s stories about Albay fueled my longing to visit Legazpi City. It felt strange. I’d explored other destinations—Bohol, Bukidnon, Cebu—and even ventured abroad, yet my father’s hometown remained a mystery.
Where to Stay in Legazpi, Albay
Let’s just say my Legazpi trip wasn’t exactly meticulously planned (note to self: plan in advance, especially for solo first-time visits!). Despite the last-minute scramble, it turned out to be a revelation. The locals were incredibly welcoming and helpful, even if they couldn’t resist a friendly, “Ikaw lang? (Are you alone?)” or “Dapat sinama mo ang boyfriend mo (You should have brought your boyfriend).”
This unplanned aspect had a surprising upside. While I initially pictured myself chasing Mayon with my siblings or Neil, either on foot, ATV, or hiking Lignon Hill, I discovered the joy of my own company.
Since I returned happy and unharmed, maybe I did some things right. Below, I share how I spent 48 hours in Legazpi, Albay.
Finding Refuge: A Budget Traveler’s Albay Adventure
As a solo traveler, keeping costs in check was a priority. Thankfully, on a whim, I contacted a fellow blogger who steered me towards RMJ Apartelle, a simple space for budget-conscious adventurers. Nestled near Gaisano Mall and the Legazpi City Terminal, this clean and comfortable room offered the perfect base for my explorations.
You can book this room for P700. It has a serviceable bed, bathroom, cabinet, sink, desk and chair. The AC unit works fine, too. I would have stayed here until my second night in Legazpi, but the entire property was booked by DILG delegates. That’s saying something about its quality.
The first night was blissful. But fate, or maybe my lack of planning, had other ideas. A scheduled power outage swept through the city, making my cozy haven less appealing. Undeterred, I ventured out and found Bicol Travelers Inn (at Obrero Bariada Road, near Legazpi Water District) while searching for a place to stay.
This new accommodation offered a different kind of charm. A fan whirred overhead, replacing the comforting hum of AC, and the bathroom was a short walk down the hall. While not luxurious, it had a certain backpacker authenticity that resonated with my spontaneous spirit. More importantly, P350 a night fits perfectly within my travel budget. Here’s how it looks inside.
Both accommodations are a few minutes away from Legazpi airport and the main points of interest in the city.
Unearthing Legazpi’s Treasures: A City Tour with a Local Touch
Exhausted but exhilarated, I awoke the next day, eager to delve into the city’s vibrant tapestry. Asking around the staff at RMJ Apartelle, I was connected with a local driver who doubled as a guide. His friendly demeanor put me at ease, and soon we were zipping through the streets, Legazpi unfurling before my eyes. Here are the tourist spots we visited:
Legazpi Boulevard
The majestic Legazpi Boulevard stretches along the captivating Albay Gulf, offering a scenic pathway. I wanted to linger here longer, promising to extend my stay on my next visit.
Magayon Festival Floats
On our way to Daraga Church, we spotted some colorful floats from the recent Magayon Festival – a reminder of the lively celebration. Held annually in May, the festival honors the region’s beauty and history through plays, like the one depicting the tragic love story of Daragang Magayon and Panganoron, a tale believed to be the volcano’s inspiration.
Daraga Church
During a brief stop at Daraga Church, I marveled at its commanding view of the Mayon Volcano. Built from 1773 onwards, the church was a refuge relocated from Cagsawa after volcanic eruptions and floods. Its Churrigueresque style, rich with intricate floral and Solomonic column designs, reflects a blend of Spanish Baroque and local Bicolano motifs. The church’s role as a gateway to heaven and symbol of salvation resonates through its patroness, Our Lady of the Gate of Heaven, and its ornate facade.
Cagsawa Ruins
Cagsawa Ruins stood solemnly, its skeletal bell tower piercing the sky. In 1814, Mayon’s eruption buried the bustling town center under ash, leaving only whispers of its former church and parish house. Crumbled walls around the tower hinted at a lost town hall and schoolhouse. This Level II Historic Structure and National Cultural Treasure evoked a poignant mix of beauty and loss.
Amidst the ruins, I felt the undeniable power of Mayon and the resilience of Albayanos, who rebuilt their lives around it.
Lignon Hill
We ventured up Ligñon Hill Nature Park, a challenging ascent that took 30 minutes to conquer. Though smaller than Mayon Volcano, its steepness demanded breaks, leaving me breathless (literally). The reward? Spectacular views of Mayon, thrilling ziplining, and a visit to a mysterious Japanese tunnel. Leaving the place was bittersweet; my guide and I discussed local delicacies while he shared his thoughts on the park’s commercialization.
On the way to these tourist attractions, I passed by Bicol University and the Cathedral of San Gregorio Magno. I paid my guide and tricycle driver P650 for this tour (the usual rate is P500, with an extra P150 as a tip for his excellent photography skills).
The next day, ATV driving to Mt. Mayon was my main priority.
Mayon ATV Tour at Brgy. Pawa
For this adventure, I chose Your Brother Travel and Tours ATV Service. The 30-minute guided drive costs only P1,100 (including a P100 tip for the guide). As a first-time ATV driver, I opted for the beginner-friendly trail.
If you book the Mayon ATV tour via Klook, you can start your adventure for as low as P435 – an unbeatable price for an unforgettable experience!
A Daughter’s Reflection: A Connection Forged
This trip to Legazpi wasn’t just about ticking tourist spots off a list. It was a journey of self-discovery, a chance to understand the land that shaped my father’s world. With each landmark and each interaction, I felt a connection bloom, a bridge between generations. Legazpi wasn’t just a city; it was a piece of my heritage, a place I now carried in my heart.
Stay tuned for the next part, where I delve into the delicious world of Bicol cuisine!
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