Travel to the Picturesque Ilocos Region of the Philippines

Ilocos Region is an administrative region of the Philippines that comprises four provinces namely: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan. It is popularly known for its historical sites and beautiful beaches.

And this is where our first ever tour with my best friend. So come and join us as we explore the marvelous region of Ilocos. You will surely love the picturesque tourist spots of this place.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos, Ilocos Norte

Laoag City Landmark

So let's go first to Ilocos Norte which is situated in the northern part of the Philippines. Its capital city is "Laoag City" where you can find the ancient Paoay Church also known as St. Augustine Church which is a combination of local and baroque architecture.  It is also considered one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. 

Paoay Church

You can also experience here the thrilling ride at Paoay Sand Dunes Adventures. This is one of my favorite experience, the ride will cost 500 pesos but it's worth the penny!

Paoay Sand Dunes Adventure

Here is a video of that ride:

Farther north, you will see the mystical Cape Bojeador Lighthouse which is also known as Burgos Lighthouse is a cultural heritage in Burgos, Ilocos Norte and was built during Spanish Colonial Period in the Philippines.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

You can also visit the fascinating  Kapurpurwan Rock Formation that offers panoramic ocean views and place to chill where you can go horseback riding for only 100 pesos. 

Horseback Riding

Kapurpurwan Rock Formation

And the mesmerizing and powerful Bangui Wind Farm that faces the West Philippine Sea that uses 20 units of 70-metre (230ft) high Vestas V82 1.65 MW wind turbines arranged on a single row stretching along a nine-kilometer shoreline off Bangui Bay (data from wiki)

Bangui Wind Farm

You should also visit the historical "Malacanang of the North" which is a presidential museum in Paoay, Ilocos Norte that was the residence of former President Ferdinand Marcos.

Malacanang of the North

Inside Malacanang of the North

At the province's northern tip, you can find the town of Pagudpud that is known for its beautiful white sand beaches like Hannah's Blue Lagoon Resort.

Hannah's Blue Lagoon

Beach Time with Friends

You should also not missed the bell-shaped Timmangtang Rock that is truly a masterpiece of nature and the Patapat Viaduct at the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, that is elevated 31 meters over sea level. 

A photo was taken by a local kid 

Patapat Viaduct

That's it for the north, now let's stroll the wonders of Ilocos Sur where you can visit the well-preserved Spanish colonial City of Vigan dating in the 16th century which is described as macadamize streets and mansions with wrought-iron balconies.

Spanish colonial City of Vigan

Lastly, this tour won't be complete without visiting La Union where you can visit Grape Farm...

La Union Grape Farm

Grape  and Bugnay Wine

...and Pangasinan where you can buy delicious dried fish along the streets.

Delicious Dried Fish 

This region has so much beautiful place to visit, so many things to offer even when we were going home, we will pass the scenic Quirino Bridge that is named after the later former President Elpidio Quirino the 6th President of the Philippines. 

Quirino Bridge

Overall, it was a memorable journey with my best friend. We had a great time exploring the place and meeting new people. It was also a good choice to get Travel and Tour Agency since places in Ilocos region is quite scattered and with our limited time, it is efficient to get one. Thanks to Thorita Travel & Tours for an awesome trip!

Thank you for visiting. Till our next travel!