ALICIA SEASON

Alicia, Bohol: Conquering the Binabaje Hills When people think of Bohol, they usually picture Chocolate Hills or Panglao’s white sand beaches. But on my last trip, I discovered a hidden gem that offers a different kind of adventure—the rolling hills of Alicia, Bohol, particularly the breathtaking Binabaje Hills, also known as the Alicia Panoramic Park. The Journey to Alicia Alicia is a quiet town in eastern Bohol, about 2-3 hours from Tagbilaran City. Unlike the usual touristy spots, it offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. The road to Alicia was scenic—passing through rice fields, coconut plantations, and small villages before finally reaching the jump-off point for our trek. The Hike to Binabaje Hills The trail to Binabaje Hills was a mix of steep ascents, rolling slopes, and open grasslands. At first, the climb was easy, but as we progressed, the heat became our biggest challenge. Since there were barely any trees along the trail, the sun was intense, and we were sweating just minutes into the trek. Bringing enough water and sun protection is a must here! But the effort was absolutely worth it. As we climbed higher, the 360-degree view of rolling hills started to unfold. The landscape looked like a mix between the Chocolate Hills and Batanes—endless green slopes stretching into the horizon, with patches of farms and rivers cutting through the valleys. It felt like standing on top of a vast sea of green waves. Summit Views & Sunrise Magic Reaching the highest peak was surreal. The strong winds, the golden hues of the sun hitting the hills, and the peaceful silence made it a moment to remember. If you want an even more magical experience, I highly recommend doing an early morning hike to catch the sunrise. The way the first light slowly illuminates the hills is simply breathtaking. For those staying overnight, camping at the summit is a great option. The night sky here is incredibly clear, and stargazing is another highlight of the experience. The Descent & Side Trips Going down was much easier, though the loose soil made some sections a bit slippery. After the hike, we rewarded ourselves with a refreshing dip at a nearby river, which was the perfect way to cool off after the sun-drenched trek. If you have extra time, you can also explore nearby attractions like Can-umantad Falls in Candijay or the Anda white sand beaches for a complete adventure. Alicia’s Binabaje Hills is an underrated paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. It’s proof that Bohol isn’t just about beaches and tarsiers—it’s also home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. If you’re looking for an adventure beyond the usual tourist spots, Alicia should definitely be on your list!