Virac Hotels

Dubbed as the Land of the Howling Winds, Virac, Catanduanes stands quite majestic. This picture-perfect sanctuary features panoramic scenery and rugged yet breathtaking terrains. Dare to see its picturesque beauty on a summer and be enchanted in no time.

Looking for another postcard-worthy paradise? Virac, the capital of Catanduanes, never disappoints in terms of giving marvelous attractions and bizarre experiences to travelers and tourists alike. With its mountainous terrains and pristine beaches, this is definitely a perfect destination for your next out-of-town adventure. The area is located at the southern area of the Bicol region, and is the 12th biggest island in the Philippines.

How to Go

By plane

It takes an hour flying to Virac. Take a domestic flight from Manila at any NAIA terminals going to Legazpi which is the nearest airport to Catanduanes.

By land transportation

Catch a bus going to Tabaco Port in Cubao. Travel time may take 10 to 11 hours. From Tabaco Port, take a boat to San Andres Port and then hop any ferry going to Virac. Travel time from Manila may last for 15 hours. However, you can surely enjoy the long rides because of the rewarding scenery you can watch on the road.

Getting Around

Touring around Virac is convenient with the jeepneys plying on the streets. However, jeepney fare here is much expensive compared to the mainland.

Tourist Attractions

The famous yet uncrowded paradise of Caramoan is a stone’s away from Virac so it should definitely one of your top destinations. You can hire a boat for island hopping, which might cost around Php 3, 500 and is good for five people. This price is not bad for budget travelers who want to discover Caramoan and witness such grandiose beauty.

Since the island is facing the Pacific Ocean, you can expect stunning beaches that will surely capture your heart. Don’t forget to take a side trip to the neighboring towns where Puraran Beach is located. Maribina Falls is a five-minute walk from the main road, so it should definitely be included on your bucket list.

Top Things to Do

To maximize your stay in Virac, you should try activities that don’t require special skills first. Visit the Luyang Cave and get mesmerized by a view that you will most often only see in the movies. Then try playing with the waves at the surfing mecca of Catanduanes at Puraran Beach. If you’re not into surfing, just enjoy the scenery because it’s a good thing to do to combat stress. Some vitamin sea and a little basking in the sun is also good for your health.

When in Catanduanes, take as many photos as you can. This is a place where everywhere you look is nothing but picturesque. Go to nearby towns and discover their culture as well. Aside from sightseeing, knowing the story of the locals and being friends with them are a good souvenir to take home with you.

Where to Eat

Catanduanes will not spare you from delicious seafood. Dine in The Fin Bar and Grill as they offer different kinds of savory and sinful pulutan dishes. It’s would be nice to have a cold beer by your side when you try some of their specialties. Drop by Blossoms Restaurant for the sizzling blue marlin steak and visit Taste Buds for exotic foods exclusive in Virac.

Nightlife

There are several bars in Virac where you can spend the night with some friends or meet fellow travelers who are celebrating at the bars, too. Check out Big Apple Music Bar and drink from dusk ‘til dawn and sing your hearts out with friends.

Where to Stay

Traveling to Catanduanes will take more than 24 hours so make sure to book in one of the hotels in Virac. Rakdell Inn is the number 1 recommended place to stay at  by many tourists who’ve booked with them. However, you may also try to look for other Bed and Breakfast (BnB) packages online to save on accommodation expenses.

Twin Rock Beach Resort is also recommended to budget travelers. You can avail their closed cottages at Php 500. A superior room costs Php 4,000 which is ideal for those who are going with their family.

Travel Tips

• There’s a lot of things to do in Virac. It would be better to spend a week or less when going to Catanduanes to make sure you can cherish everything Virac has to offer.

• Pack light but bring all the necessary things with you, including a small first aid kit.

• Try their local cuisines. Although it may sometimes come pricey, add it up to your experience and treat as an investment.

• Ask the locals everything you can think of. It will be good for to have a short story of a local to tell in your blogs.