Mayon Skyline (former Mayon Rest House) was our last stop today coming from an overnight stay in Gubat, Sorsogon down to Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga, Albay. I was overwhelmed to see my family especially Noel and Pol, both “first-timers” enjoying every minute of our vacation in our hometown in Albay and in our neighboring region.
From Daraga, it took us almost one hour reaching the turn off point in Crossing Buang in Tabaco City. Then another twenty minutes going up the Skyline passing scenic view of lush vegetation. This is my fourth visit here and I could say, this is the most exciting moment. Why? I felt so elated seeing unobstructed view of Mayon Volcano in full glory. As soon as we hopped out from our van, I hastily took my cam.
And I was so lucky that I had a good photo, captured in clarity!
It was cool, oh I miss this cool atmosphere here which is somewhat similar to Tagaytay. We went down the terraced park where the view deck was located. We stayed in one gazebo and enjoyed watching a breath taking view of all things verdant and lush. To the right were the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding towns and San Miguel Island. To our left were the towering and unobstructed Mt. Malinao and Mt. Masaraga. There was a children’s playground in the middle of the park.
We discovered there was another concrete stairs in going up to the parking area. We sat on steps for a wacky shot. As we went up, I was amazed to see a stunning view of the park… in the silhouette of summer.
Look at this.
We ate snack in the cafeteria (biscuits and soft drinks). There was a souvenir shop inside and I was so happy when I saw a small Mayon Volcano display item made of volcanic sand in a cheaper price of P100 only compared to P250 in Cagsawa Ruins. When I lifted it up, this one was lighter, hence the price.
After a short break, we headed to Mayon Planetarium. We passed by an old, abandoned building, Mayon Skyline Hotel. From afar, the blue-domed shaped planetarium was so enticing to look at. We were excited to see what’s inside it. It was already 5 pm but still, it was opened for the visitors. There was no cashier to pay for the entrance fee (P10/head) so we assumed it was already free by that time.
There were lots of visitors scattered in front of photo souvenirs of volcanoes, stars, nebula and even satellites. We were one of them, busy reading articles about the volcanoes. Later we went inside a video room where we watched the legend of Mayon Volcano and some interesting facts about the province of Albay. When the show ended, we went back to the parking area and was refreshed even more by the cool breeze.
As of that moment, thin clouds were now covering the peak of Mayon Volcano. It was getting dark and we were already chilling.
We went to Tabaco City and had an eat-all-you-can dinner in LCC Foudcourt for an affordable price of P129 only. Bottomless ice tea was P29 only. There were four viands and two desserts in the long table. It was cheap but nice dinner.
We had an inexpensive family getaway in the Skyline and everyone had fun.
Tomorrow is a continuation of our Albay tour.
Good night my beloved hometown!
