Sidetrip: A Magnificent View of Mt. Samat

Since we were already at Clark for the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, we decided to take a sidetrip somewhere. A popular option would be Subic especially Tree Top Adventure. But because some of us have already been there, or are afraid of heights, and/or are on budget mode, we chose the option less picked, in Bataan. I first heard about this place when I had my immersion among the fisher folks in Abucay.

The drive to Mt. Samat from Clark took over 2 hours because of the heavy traffic at Clark. The place was quite easy to find just look for the 'Dambana ng Kagitingan' sign. It's a very tourist-friendly place, and for only 20pesos entrance fee. You can take your vehicle all the way to the top, saving you around an hour trek (from the bottom) or 15 mins trek from the guest house near the top. 

 

The Shrine of Valor

Did you know that this huge cross had an elevator inside it? We took it for 10pesos in order to get a nice view farther up. The wind was really cool, the view so refreshing. This is a must-try if you ever passed by Bataan.

 

Towards the end of the hallway lies this window. We got amused taking a lot of shots. 

"Hanapin ang Sarili sa Bilog Challenge"

As we trekked (or walked rather) downwards we were greeted by a splendid view of the clear blue sky as well as the temple and museum below. 

As we reached this cute building here, we took some time to 'absorb' and experience the details of place. We also took a peek inside the museum they had, which housed some relics, photographs of the WWII. It \was the perfect way to end this turned historical and educational tour.

At past 12, we were hungry for lunch and would take any restaurant nearby. Good thing we found this buffet style eatery in Balanga, around 30-40 mins drive from Mt. Samat.

Part of the original itinerary was to go to Dunsulan Falls, just behind Mt. Samat. It was around 130pm then and we didn't want to get pressed for time so we decided to head back to Clark instead. Maybe I can still visit Dunsulan once I get to visit Bataan again.

With beautiful scenery, great company, good laughs and photoholic satisfaction, we head back to Clark for the Hot Air Balloon. It was time well spent. :)