Discovering the Charms of Ilocos Sur: Stepping Back into Spanish Colonial Philippines
Nestled on the northwestern coast of Luzon, the province of Ilocos Sur is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
From its iconic Spanish colonial architecture to its savory culinary delights, this destination promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
While its crown jewel, Vigan City, often steals the spotlight as a UNESCO World Heritage site, venturing beyond its cobblestone streets reveals even more of what makes Ilocos Sur truly special.
If you're planning a trip to this enchanting corner of the Philippines, get ready to immerse yourself in a world where the past gracefully dances with the present.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-do activities and must-see sights that define the magic of Ilocos Sur.
Step Back in Time: The Heritage Heart of Vigan City
Your journey through Ilocos Sur truly begins in Vigan City, a place so perfectly preserved it feels like a living museum.
1. A Stroll Down Calle Crisologo: This is the quintessential Vigan experience. Imagine walking on century-old cobblestones, flanked by magnificent ancestral houses with their grand wooden doors and capiz shell windows.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon/evening. The soft sunlight bathes the street in a golden glow, and at night, the warm glow of antique lamps creates a truly romantic atmosphere.
Must-Do: Take a leisurely kalesa ride (horse-drawn carriage) to fully appreciate the street's grandeur from a different perspective. It's an authentic way to soak in the historical ambiance.
2. Vigan Cathedral (St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral) & Plaza Salcedo: Dominating the city's main plaza, this majestic Baroque-style church is a testament to centuries of faith and resilience.
Right outside, Plaza Salcedo comes alive every evening with a spectacular dancing fountain show, a modern touch in a historic setting.
3. Bantay Church Bell Tower: Just a short drive from Vigan's center, this iconic bell tower stands proudly atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
While recent earthquakes have impacted direct access, its external beauty and historical significance remain undiminished. It served as a watchtower during the Spanish colonial era.
4. Ancestral Homes: Syquia Mansion & Crisologo Museum: Delve deeper into the lives of Ilocos Sur's prominent families by visiting their ancestral homes, now converted into museums.
Syquia Mansion: The former residence of President Elpidio Quirino, this grand house is filled with antique furniture, period clothing, and personal memorabilia, offering a fascinating glimpse into Philippine political history.
Crisologo Museum: Dedicated to the influential Crisologo family, this museum showcases their legacy, including the family's role in local politics and the tragic assassination of Congressman Floro Crisologo.
5. Pagburnayan Jar Factory: Witness an age-old tradition come to life at this traditional pottery factory.
Here, skilled artisans handcraft burnay (unglazed earthen jars) using techniques passed down through generations.
Interactive Experience: Don't just watch! You can try your hand at shaping clay on the manual pottery wheel, a truly memorable experience.
6. Santa Maria Church (A UNESCO Gem): Venture slightly outside Vigan to the town of Santa Maria to discover another architectural marvel – the Santa Maria Church.
One of the four "Baroque Churches of the Philippines" inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, this fortress-like church is perched majestically on a hill, overlooking the town.
Its imposing structure and intricate details are a sight to behold.
Highlight: Climb the grand stone staircase to the church entrance for stunning views and a sense of awe.
Nature's Embrace: Beyond the City Walls
While Vigan captures the heart with its history, Ilocos Sur's natural landscapes offer thrilling adventures and serene escapes.
7. Pinsal Falls: The Province's Grand Waterfall: Located in Santa Maria, Pinsal Falls is the largest waterfall in Ilocos Sur, boasting an impressive 85-foot drop.
The multi-tiered falls cascade into a wide basin, perfect for a refreshing swim, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is strongest.
Pro Tip: For the adventurous, a short trek can lead you to natural mini-pools above the main falls.
8. Santiago Cove: The "Boracay of Ilocos Sur": If you're yearning for some sun, sand, and sea, head to Santiago Cove.
Often dubbed the "Boracay of Ilocos Sur," this kilometer-long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters is an idyllic spot for relaxation.
Activities: Swim, sunbathe, or indulge in watersports like kayaking and jet skiing.
9. Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo: Owned by former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis "Chavit" Singson, Baluarte is a sprawling zoological park and resort that offers free admission to the public.
It's home to a diverse collection of animals, including tigers, camels, ostriches, and a vibrant butterfly garden.
Family Fun: Catch one of the daily live animal shows, an entertaining experience for all ages.
10. Narvacan Outdoor Adventure Hub (NOAH): For adrenaline junkies, NOAH in Narvacan is the ultimate playground.
This adventure hub offers a range of thrilling activities set amidst scenic landscapes.
Thrill Seeker's Paradise: Soar through the air on a zipline, conquer the waves while kayaking, or try other exhilarating outdoor challenges.
A Feast for the Senses: Ilocano Cuisine
No trip to Ilocos Sur is complete without indulging in its distinctive and utterly delicious cuisine. Prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavors that are uniquely Ilocano.
Vigan Longganisa: This small, garlicky, and slightly sour pork sausage is a breakfast staple. Pair it with fried rice and a sunny-side-up egg for a truly authentic start to your day.
Ilocos Empanada: An absolute must-try! This deep-fried, vibrant orange turnover is generously stuffed with grated green papaya, savory Vigan longganisa, and a fresh egg. Dip it in local vinegar for the perfect tangy kick. Irene's Empanada is a legendary spot in Vigan.
Bagnet: Prepare to be amazed by bagnet, often described as the "chicharon of Ilocos." This crispy, deep-fried pork belly is boiled, air-dried, and then fried to a golden perfection, resulting in incredibly crunchy skin and tender, flavorful meat. It's often served with a side of bagoong (fermented fish paste) with tomatoes and onions.
Pinakbet: A healthy and hearty vegetable stew, pinakbet showcases the region's produce. It typically features local bitter melon (ampalaya), squash, eggplant, and string beans, all simmered in a savory bagoong (fermented fish paste) broth.
Poqui-Poqui: Another vegetable-based dish, poqui-poqui is a flavorful medley of grilled eggplant, scrambled eggs, and tomatoes, often seasoned with ginger and garlic.
Ilocos Sur is a destination that promises to captivate your imagination, ignite your sense of adventure, and satisfy your culinary cravings.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, this northern gem offers a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.
So pack your bags, prepare your camera, and get ready to be charmed by the timeless beauty of Ilocos Sur!