Nature at its finest, this is what Ilocos Norte is all about. From a beautiful, calm lake to sand dunes that can rival that of Dubai or Morocco, all these can be found and more. Here are top ten must see places in Ilocos Norte.
1. Laoag City, the center and business district of the north, exemplifies the balance of culture, history and a progressive capital in one. On one part, a century old bell tower still stands while a few steps away, a plaza that houses modern restaurants can be found. The provincial government provides various tours such as the Marcos Heritage tour, Food tour or the Laoag City Tour.
2. Paoay is one of the most beautiful places in the country. The mix of romanticism, adventure, history and culture is intoxicating. Its potential to become a tourist destination is showcased in its very own PAOAY KUMAKAWAY tourism campaign. Our favorite spots? The serene Paoay Lake, the heart stopping ride and sand boarding at the Sand Dunes, the romantic Paoay Church and feeding our curiosity of the Marcoses at the grand Malacanang of the North.
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3. Batac is the birthplace of former President Ferdinand Marcos. Today, his remains and memorabilia are displayed in the museum and mausoleum. This is a pure Marcos town and fanaticism on the late President can be felt everywhere. Also note that the best Ilocos Empanada can be found in this town.
4. Bacarra, with its newly opened museum and historic spots such as the Bowing Bell Tower, is truly a cultural center in Ilocos.
5. Sitio Remedios is a resort village not to be missed in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. The owner, Dr. Joven Cuanang, restored Ilocano houses and furnished them completely to accommodate guests who would want to experience living in an original Ilocano home. All the houses, together with a beautiful, simple church and a restaurant offering native cuisines make up for a rustic Ilocano village worthy of your attention.
6. Burgos is a town filled with beautiful tourist spots. Two of these are Cape Bojeador Lighthouse and Kapurpurawan Rock. Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is one of few Spanish colonial lighthouses still in operation today. Make sure to climb all the way to the top to see the scenic view of the West Philippine Sea coastline. Kapurpurawan Rock is a rock formation created by the strong forces of the waters along the jagged coast of Burgos. This natural wonder is visually delightful because of its scenic façade and uniqueness.
7. Bangui is the place to be amazed. The Bangui Windmills are located along the Bangui coast where 20 enormous windmills are the main source of green energy of the Ilocanos. The 70 meter windmills lords over the waters of Bangui and are truly a sight to behold.
8. Pagudpud is the northernmost settlement in Luzon. Famous for its virgin beaches, it is home to Blue Lagoon and Saud Beach. Blue Lagoon is once a secret cove now slowly gaining attention from international tourists. It is also filled with natural rock formations that have legends and stories of their origin. Saud Beach is an escape from the busy city life. It is a perfect retreat to people in need of peace and the quiet.
9. The hacienda themed Plaza Del Norte and the once controversial Fort Ilocandia are the perfect "home away from home" in the north.
10. Ilocos Empanada, longanissa, Pinakbet Pizza, Bagnet and Dinengdeng, need we say more?
