Top Ten Places You Should Visit In Barili, Cebu, Phils.

Sixty-one kilometers away from the heart of Cebu City nestles the beautiful town of Barili. Off from the commercial confines of the city, Barili envelops you with nature’s unadulterated splendor. Deafeningly quiet, pleasantly warm and relaxing, the aura of the town is but an earlier heaven. And this is absolutely the reason why I personally think there’s no better place than home to drift away from the cacophony of the city.

It’s literally a long and winding road travelling south and yes, the lengthy travel can be very daunting. But every bit of ache and exhaustion is satisfyingly paid off when you reach your destination.

There’s no better tour guide than a native herself, right? So get strapped on your seats as I take you to the top ten places you should visit in my hometown! [ in no particular order, by the way 😉 ]

1. Mantayupan Falls

By far the most renowned tourist attraction in the locality, Mantayupan Falls is located just about four kilometers away from the town proper.

It holds the record as the tallest waterfall in Cebu, plunging about 200 feet from its peak down to the wide catch basin. Its cascading waters produce a loud roar, adding to its almost spellbinding vibe. Despite growing civilization, Mantayupan Falls has remained humble making it still beautifully enchanting.

So if you want to chase some waterfall or perhaps just forget for a bit the monotonous city life, Mantayupan Falls is undeniably a sight to behold!

2. Bolocboloc Natural Spring Pools

This is usually the common getaway of locals to cool-off during the hot days. Bolocboloc Spring is located just about two kilometers away from Mantayupan Falls.

Naturally sulfuric water abundantly flows through the two swimming pools housed in the vicinity. Yes, that’s what sets it apart from all other pools because the water’s naturally therapeutic, too!

3. Sayaw Beach

Not just of waterfalls or springs, Barili is home to beautiful beaches, too and Sayaw Beach is on top of it. Sayaw Beach stretches just along the highway of Brgy. Sayaw, a kilometer away from Shamrock Stop Over.

Ready your sunscreens and flip flops, let’s hit the beach!

4. AC Tilapia Fun Fishing

Not a fan of getting tans? Then fishing is one perfect activity for you! AC Tilapia Fun Fishing is located just a few meters before the famous Mantayupan Falls. The resort offers fishing (but, of course!), dining, horseback riding, swimming, karaoke, and overnight accommodations.

On your next drive to Mantayupan Falls, keep your eyes on the left side of the road for AC Tilapia Fun Fishing’s signage and don’t you miss it!

5. San Rafael Hill

Chase the sunset atop San Rafael Hill located just about two kilometers from the town proper. Expect a bit (take that literally) of bumpy ride, though from the foot of the hill to its peak but don’t worry, it’s but a minor glitch only since the peak isn’t really that far. In fact, it would only take you less than five minutes to reach it by a motorcycle and about fifteen minutes if you choose to walk.

At the peak, you can get a good view of the town and the Tañon Strait on the west. I personally would suggest you visit the place when it’s nearly twilight (4 or 5 pm) so you don’t have to battle with Mr. Sun when it’s mid-day and so you could enjoy the view of the sunset.

6. Ancestral Houses

Travel back to the old times when you visit few of Barili’s ancestral houses which have amazingly stood sturdy and proud for decades now. Yes, Barili’s a little Vigan, too!

Casa Pañares, Tomas Delgado House, Martiniano Alquizola House and Vicente Gonzalez House are just few of the structures that played a significant role in making the town’s rich history.

Timelessly beautiful, indeed!

7. Gustoso Pizza and Pasta

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Gustoso Pizza and Pasta is definitely a good place to unwind. It’s only a walking distance away from Shamrock Stop Over. It’s the perfect place to chill and dine with such cozy ambiance plus pizza and pasta servings that won’t hurt your pockets but will definitely delight your palates.

8. Fun Grill

Whether it is dining or karaoke or just your regular drinking sessions with friends or family, Fun Grill is the place to be!

Situated just within the town proper (a few meters from Gustoso), this humble resto offers sumptuous food choices from starters to entrees, down to a few desserts, too. A small karaoke room is also made available for those who love to sing while enjoying some drinks and random chit-chats with the gang.

9. Kiosk Food Stalls

Not sure what to eat? A row of food stalls is here to lure your hungry tummies. The food stalls offer a wide variety of food choices from snacks to heavy meals which are all affordable.

This spot is nicely located just across the town’s kiosk perfect for dine outs with family and friends.

  10. Molave Milk Station

Down to the last spot on my list but definitely, not the least is Molave Milk Station. It’s a popular stop over for hungry and tired travelers who want to stretch out their legs and rest for a bit while enjoying some frozen treats. Molave Milk Station is the home of delicious soft ice cream, fresh cow’s milk, kiseo (white cheese), yogurts, and everything dairy.

Let the kid in you burst into cheerful spirits once you see this signage!

That’s a wrap!

Truly, riveting and breathtaking, that’s how Barili is and I’m proud to call it my home. 🙂

I scored a perfect ten. Wouldn’t it be great if we score the same? Ari na sa Barili!

– Lovell, Travel&TasteBuddy, Proud Barilinhon