Tila Pilon, the 'Chocolate Hills of Bulacan' (Photo: Rowie Wanderlist/Blog)
Cover Tila Pilon, the 'Chocolate Hills of Bulacan' (Photo: Rowie Wanderlist/Blog)
Tila Pilon, the 'Chocolate Hills of Bulacan' (Photo: Rowie Wanderlist/Blog)

Going on fun and exciting trips does not need to cost that much time! In this write-up, we list unique spots just of Metro Manila's borders

Tall buildings, honking cars, and a busy crowd—when the cityscape is a bit overwhelming, there are places ready to welcome you any time of the day. In this article, Tatler has listed some unique spots that are just a drive away from Metro Manila. 

In case you missed it: 5 Philippine Camping Sites You Should Visit On Your Next Vacation This 2022

1. Clark Freeport Zone, Camella, Pampanga

Tatler Asia
The hot air balloon festival in Pampanga (Photo: The Beat Asia)
Above The hot air balloon festival in Pampanga (Photo: The Beat Asia)
The hot air balloon festival in Pampanga (Photo: The Beat Asia)

Up, up, and away! Clark Freeport Zone in Camella, Pampanga, has a vast field where a hot air balloon festival takes place annually. Held now in June, guests can feast on the colourful hot air balloons, food concessionaires, and live music performances by local artists and bands. 

2. Tila Pilon Hills, Bulacan

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Tila Pilon, the 'Chocolate Hills of Bulacan' (Photo: Rowie Wanderlist/Blog)
Above Tila Pilon, the 'Chocolate Hills of Bulacan' (Photo: Rowie Wanderlist/Blog)
Tila Pilon, the 'Chocolate Hills of Bulacan' (Photo: Rowie Wanderlist/Blog)

Among the most popular tourist locations in the picturesque province of Bohol are the Chocolate Hills, but did you know that Bulacan has a place that offers a similar atmosphere? 

The Tila Pilon Hills in Doña Remedios Trinidad (DRT) is a spot for hikers who are just starting out. The hills provide a scenic space where guests can enjoy nature without exerting too much effort or energy. 

Related: Bohol Travelogue: Why Panglao Island Should Be Your Next Food Trip Destination

3. Mt. Mapalad, Antipolo, Rizal

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Mt. Mapalad in Rizal (Photo: A Wanderful Sole Blog)
Above Mt. Mapalad in Rizal (Photo: A Wanderful Sole Blog)
Mt. Mapalad in Rizal (Photo: A Wanderful Sole Blog)

Mt Mapalad in Rizal is a beginner-friendly hiking place tucked in Barangay San Andres in Tanay, Rizal. It offers a stunning view of the Sierra Madre Mountain range, grasslands, and waterfalls. The mountain has an elevation of 765 metres above sea level or about 2,509 feet.

Read more: 5 Group-Friendly Out-of-Town Destinations in the Philippines

 

4. Fortune Island, Batangas

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Fortune Island in Batangas (Photo: Wanderlust Storytellers/Blog)
Above Fortune Island in Batangas (Photo: Wanderlust Storytellers/Blog)
Fortune Island in Batangas (Photo: Wanderlust Storytellers/Blog)

Fortune Island in Nasugbu, Batangas, used to be a private island with an exclusive luxury resort. It ceased operations in 2006 and left a marvellous Greek-inspired grandeur atop its limestone cliff overlooking the sea.

Although the tourist location requires one boat ride from land, guests will surely reap the rewards when they see the deep blue waters and mountains that surround the island.

5. Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, Laguna

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Photo 1 of 2 Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery in Laguna (Photo: Tita S Travels/Wordpress)
Photo 2 of 2 An underground cemetery in Laguna (Photo: EAZY Traveler Blog)
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery in Laguna (Photo: Tita S Travels/Wordpress)
An underground cemetery in Laguna (Photo: EAZY Traveler Blog)

There is a place in Laguna where you can relax and spend some quiet time with yourself. The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is a national historical landmark and museum built in 1845 as a public burial site for Spanish friars. 

Today, it is known as the only underground cemetery in the Philippines. 

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Jove Moya
Senior Feature Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets. 

When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.