By this time, I've been to these waterfalls a number of times. It is easily a favorite destination. I've written entries about my trip here a year ago,
But for the sake of organization (and a record of my latest trip), I'm compiling it here.
There are several ways to reach Real, Quezon. One is to call passenger vans and they will pick you up at your house or meet them in a pick-up point, usually in Junction or in Legarda. This option is known to most locals of Polillo. The second option is to ride the Raymond Bus in Legarda station. Travel time is just three hours from Manila
The Real-Mauban road leading to Balagbag falls has been finished up to that point which makes Balagbag ever easier to visit. No more rough roads for the next few minutes, you have to be careful of falling rocks though. Meanwhile, the foot trail will take you there in more or less ten minutes. This also makes Balagbag a bit more touristy than it was the previous years. More huts has been constructed in the area.
Balagbag falls has a multi-level pool. Some brave souls dare themselves to jump from the second level. I am not one of those people. I've also noticed a few changes like the pathway being trimmed. I personally prefer the 'wilder' look.
I always love the fact that it is beside a coastal road. Freshwater on the left, seawater on the right.
I always find the waves to be rough at this side of the sea but I still find it attractive, especially when I notice the mini cascading falls formed by the rocks or the solitary trees that stand in the middle of nowhere.
Nunok Falls is just a few minutes away from Balagbag. This is where the rough road starts. It is smaller in size but has a larger pool. Oddly enough, this place was crowded when we visited, it usually isn't.
We are lucky to own a house by the beach in Brg. Ugong. If you plan to stay overnight, the coastal area leading to Infanta is sprawling with resorts where you can rent rooms overnight. The closest to the falls area is The Park where you can pitch a tent for a fee or you can rent the house. There is also a cottage in the falls vicinity that you can rent overnight
**There's a strip of fish vendors just before the resorts and fish are fresh and cheap. Be sure to bring a styrofoam container with you. You can buy there and have them cooked at where you're staying. I always like the tanguige and squid.
Fishing boats. When it's still too early, we sometimes borrow the boat and try our luck with the fishes
A local delicacy. Sinantol with alimango.
You can try the Marikina-Infanta road on your way back but most of the public transport do not pass here.
It has one of the nicest view for a road trip. Low lying clouds that pass by you on a cold morning and a view of the Sierra Madre. This road leads to Pinlac Falls in Brgy. Magsaysay just before a bridge.
Pinlac Falls and its cascading falls. This is also an easy hike.
There are a few establishments on your way. One is a favorite stopover for motorbike riders (how vague of me) and they serve tapa from baboy-ramo/native mix and other breakfast menu. If you ever find this secret place, you can ask for the way to a secret waterfalls ;) I haven't checked it out but the allure of a less known waterfalls is always enticing.
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til the next adventure
