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 so delighted to see my family especially first-timers Noel and Pol enjoying every minute of our vacation in our hometown in Albay and in our neighboring region.
The majestic Mayon Volcano
From Daraga, it took us almost one hour to reach the turn-off point in Crossing Buang in Tabaco City. Then another twenty minutes going up the Skyline passing scenic view of lush vegetation.
The happy moment getting down to the Gazebo
This is my fourth visit here and I could say, this is the most exciting moment. Why? I felt so elated seeing an 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 breathtaking 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.
A tranquil afternoon with the gang
There were other concrete stairs 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.
The beautiful silhouette of summer
We ate snacks in the cafeteria. There was a souvenir shop inside. I bought a small Mayon Volcano display item made of volcanic sand at a cheaper price of P100 only. The same item costs P250 in Cagsawa Ruins. When I lifted it up, this one was lighter, hence the price.
The beautiful view and peaceful afternoon at the Gazebo
After a short break, we headed to Mayon Planetarium. We were excited to see what’s inside it. From afar, the blue-domed-shaped planetarium was so enticing to look at. We passed by the Mayon Skyline Hotel, an old and abandoned building. When we were about to pay for the entrance fee (P10/head) at the cashier booth, there was no one there. We waited for several minutes but the cashier was nowhere in sight. We assumed it was already free since it was already past 5:00 pm.
When we went inside, there were lots of visitors scattered in front of photo souvenirs of volcanoes, stars, nebula, and even satellites. We got busy reading articles about volcanoes. Later we went to the video room and watched the legend of Mayon Volcano and some interesting facts about the province of Albay. When the show ended, we went back to the gazebo and were refreshed even more by the cool breeze and afternoon tranquility.
Shen inside Mayon Planetarium
As of that moment, thin clouds were now covering the peak of Mayon Volcano. It was getting dark and we were already chilling. It’s time now to say goodbye to one of Albay’s top tourist attractions.
Savoring the view and the cool breeze
We went to Tabaco City and had an eat-all-you-can dinner in LCC Foudcourt for an affordable price of P129/head only. Bottomless ice tea was P29 only. There were four viands and two desserts at the long table. It was a cheap but nice dinner.
We had an inexpensive family getaway in the Skyline and everyone had fun.
Enjoying the dinner with the family
Tomorrow is a continuation of our Albay tour.
Good night my beloved hometown!