Alegria Hotels

Alegria is a coastal town in Central Philippines that is a well-loved destination for thrill seekers and easy going travelers. With its variety of exciting activities to discover and experience, your adventure never stops in Alegria.

At A Glance

Alegria got its name when a group of Spaniards exclaimed “Que Alegre!” (How gleeful!) after seeing natives merrymaking around Tubod or natural spring. True enough,happiness is infectious in this peaceful and warm town as it offers you the best of both worlds- from up to the mountain, down to the sea. It showcases abundant natural wonders such as waterfalls, springs, caves, mountain ranges, and historical landmarks that are not to be missed out from your travel checklist.  

How To Go

By plane

Daily flights are available from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) going to Mactan Cebu International Airport. Weekly, there are three flights going to Cebu from Clark International Airport in Pampanga. Another nearer possible point of entry is via Sibulan Airport in Dumaguete City from the neighboring island of Negros Oriental.

By boat/ferry

There are five ferry trips  in a week from shipping lines like Carlos Gothong Lines and 2GO Travels en route to Cebu International Port coming from Manila which may last up to 22 to 23 hours. You can also take a Roll-On- Roll Off or RORO vessel especially if you’re planning to bring a vehicle with you.

If you’re coming from Dumaguete City, you can ride a 20-minute fast craft from Sibulan Port to Liloan, Santander or from Tampi Port to Bato, Samboan.

By land transportation

You can reach Alegria either by riding a public bus or hiring a private van from the Cebu South Terminal in Cebu City which may take three to four hours drive.  And a bus ride going to Badian or Cebu City takes a 45 minute trip from Liloan, Santander and a 30-minute travel from Bato, Samboan  to reach Alegria town proper.

Getting Around

Different modes of public transportation are available around the town like a multicab or small light truck, tricycle or cycle rickshaw, and habal-habal or motorcycle. But for your outdoor adventures, your reliable transport is by foot (and your brave heart!).

Tourist Attractions

Alegria boasts of picturesque spots and fascinating attractions that are too beautiful not to capture, let alone thoughtfully explore. Unlike what the song says that you shouldn't go chasing waterfalls, when you're here go after the grand waterfalls such as Cambais, Cancalanog, Montpeller, Kawa-Kawa, and Kitara falls. You should also look into the beauty of Cambusay, Salay, and Kantayong caves. The fresh water springs of Tubod and Canlaob springs will make you feel renewed, too. On a peaceful day, you can stroll along the well-maintained Alegria Heritage Park or Freedom Park and enjoy the great view of the coast, the baluarte or Bantay sa Hari watchtower ruins, and the St. Francis Xavier Church, one of the oldest churches in Cebu.

Top Things to Do

You can go big or go home with your extreme adventures here in the quiet town of Alegria. Make your most memorable squad goals as you and your friends go trekking or spelunking in the sparkly caves, diving off the cliffs, or canyoneering along Kanlaob River. But if you can’t do any of these activities, don’t worry. You can still take photos of the scenery as it is rewarding by itself.

If you’re a hardcore mountaineer, take the Mt. Lanaya challenge with its most difficult trail, the Legaspi Trail that requires great physical and mental condition. At its peak, the Kalo-Kalo Peak, you can have a glimpse of Osmeña Peak, Mt. Kanlaon and Mt. Talinis in Negros Oriental. Or if you opt for an easier trek, you can trek Lobo Hills and indulge in its Tagaytay or Baguio-like breeze and pine tree atmosphere.

And join one of the most awaited festivals for the Alegrianons during every 2nd of December, the Kawayan Festival. As bamboo furniture making is one of the major source of livelihood for the locals, this annual town fiesta is celebrated with parades, bamboo product displays, and highlighted by a street dancing competition using bamboo costumes. The festival is also dedicated to the town’s patron saint, St. Francis Xavier.

Where to Eat

If you’re looking for Filipino cuisine made with organic ingredients and no vetsin (MSG), go to Cocina Organica at San Roque, Poblacion. Aside from enjoying Pochero or Caldereta or Chopsuey or Sizzling Gambas at a relatively affordable price, you’ll get to dine in with a view of the sea.

When it’s merienda time, treat your taste buds and tummy with the all-time favorite Pan De Bisaya, bigger version of pandesal made with coconut milk and cooked in banana leaves, and Budbod, suman or sticky rice made with coconut milk.

Nightlife

Although Alegria is an overall reserved town, you can still enjoy a relaxing nightlife at Xi Shack Restobar. This seaside restaurant, disco bar, and cafe can take your blues away with its location along the beach or a bottle or two of beer with friends.

Where to Stay

There are several choices for accommodation in Alegria that will fit your need and budget. You can stay in Sun Xi Resort, a mountain resort that has a peaceful setting or at the private beach hotel of Sun Xi Beach Club. Those looking for a more affordable place to stay, there are resorts, lodging inns, and pension houses available such as  De Alegre Travellers Inn and Lucci Pension House.   

Travel Tips

• Safety comes first. Don’t stray away from your tour guide/s.

• Be respectful of nature. Do not spoil its natural state. Clean as you go.

• Don’t forget to bring a first aid kit.