If you think that the province of Laguna is all about hot spring then I'd say you haven't explored the entire beauty of Laguna, yet. Because this province has tons of more stunning places to offer. Just like San Pablo’s
best-kept little secret” (as they call it) and rightfully so.
Out of the seven lakes,
Pandin is said to be the best and cleanest. We were told this was due to
the fact that there is a 15 minute hike on dirt tracks before getting
to the lake, which keeps most tourists from visiting. But I think it has
more to do with the lake’s incredible people, and their vigilance in
guarding their most valuable asset.
This is the sight that greeted us when we got to the end of our trek. Such a breath of fresh air.
There are about
15 families that reside close to the lake, most of them making a living
by fishing on the lake, or through tourism products.
We were met by a group of
women both young and old, and led to floating rafts made of long bamboo
poles fixed side by side.
The reflection of the lush foliage surrounding it makes the lake
appear green, but if you look directly into the water, you will see how
clean and clear it is.
The 3-hour raft ride costs PHP 180.00 per head without food. Guests
have an option to have food served right on the raft for an additional
PHP 180.00 per head.
I highly recommend taking the option for lunch to be served on the
raft. The food they prepared was so plenty and so flavorful that we
could not stop eating even if we were so full! We were served fried
shrimp, grilled tilapia, pako salad (it was my first time to try pako, a
vegetable that resembles small fern leaves, and I am now quite a fan of
it!), fresh buko (coconut) and ube for desert. I also advise bringing drinks, since
the buko juice might not be enough for you for 3 whole hours and you
will have no other option since, well, you're in the middle of the lake.
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And then it was time for swimming!
Just a word of caution though, the lake’s very deep (like 10 feet or
even more) so the tour guides don’t allow people (yeah even if you’re a
good swimmer) to swim w/o a life vest on.
The lake water is clean and almost a bit colder than the usual.
I didn’t imagine that a place that speaks of serenity and tranquility lies not so far from Manila. This place is perfect for somebody who has just gone through a heartache or a tough time in his/her life because the water and the environment soothes you and relaxes you like no other. You have to thank me for bringing up that idea LOL
