VISIT SANTA CRUZ | UNCHARTED | IPIL
Bathala Lake: A Refreshing Detour
Off the main road to tourist favorites Bagumbungan Cave and Hakupan Island is a haven of calm and serenity that has been enchanting curious wanderers.
The next time you’re heading to Bagumbungan Cave in Barangay San Isidro or Hakupan Island in Barangay Botilao and the naturally carved rocky mountainside in Barangay Ipil peeks out of the horizon, take a quick detour and head out to what locals call the Bathala Lake for a rewarding communion with unspoiled nature. Facing the lush Santa Cruz Georeserve – a 300-hectare protected upland forest – the Bathala Lake is an ethereal sight to behold. Its sparkling emerald waters and the surrounding verdant meadows make a perfect spot for a picnic or a nature-inspired pictorial. Rent a boat from the locals in the community and paddle your way around the lake or take a dip for a refreshing full experience.
But, if you want to checkout if the local folklore is true, bring your tent and set-up camp for an overnight stay. We heard that some pretty mystical and mysterious occurences happen at night in the area.
How to get there
Hop on a jeepney from downtown Santa Cruz that transports locals to Barangay Ipil and ask the driver to drop you off near Sitio Bathala Dos.
What to expect
The usual tourist amenities are not yet available at Bathala Lake. But its rustic and untouched condition – free of man-made interventions – is a charm that the local community hosting curious wanderers hopes to preserve.