My officemates/friends and I decided to visit Biliran after a 2-week training for a nationwide survey. We were actually assigned in Leyte and Southern Leyte but since Biliran is just a land travel away (and out of curiousity), we took the chance of spending a weekend in this "unknown paradise." We reached Naval (Biliran's capital) via bus from Ormoc, Leyte. The travel took 1.5 hours. Good thing there's no need for us to travel in water. We have crossed the Biliran Bridge - 150 meters long connecting Leyte to Biliran, built in 1975.
Upon arrival in Naval, the van we contacted through our officemate was already waiting for us. The whole day rent costs 1,500 and its good for 14 persons, well unfortunately, we were only 6 in the group. We could hire a motorbike instead but having the heavy backpacks with us, a van could give more convenience. We decided to go in Caibiran first, where the most popular falls is situated. Caibiran is an hour away from Naval.
I can't help but enjoy the view of mountains and rice fields along the way. I really love the very provincial ambiance and of course the fresh air that I can't afford in the city. Yes, we opted to open our windows instead of maximizing the use of having the aircon in the van.
First stop - Tinago Falls. According to the folks, this is the most beautiful and popular among the other known falls. The way to this spot is very convenient, there's a concrete stairs going down to the falls. To promote tourism, they say, that's why the concrete path was built. Nice one!
Alas! I was really mesmerized by the beauty of Tinago Falls though it doesn't look like visitors-friendly due to the rocky path surrounding it. It actually requires a short rock climbs to get nearer to the falls. Well, with its majestic look that I can't explain - its really worth a visit. And I really love the strong cascades. We enjoyed the view and the cool water for almost 2 hours.
Our second stop - Pundol Falls in Almeria. This municipality is just a half-hour away from Caibiran. It took 15 mins trek before we reached the falls. The remarkable thing about this falls is that people, especially children are enjoying the jump in the cool gash of water.
Third stop - Iyusan Rice Terraces. Yes, Biliran also uses this agricultural technique. With their cool temperature, no wonder this would work. The rice terraces view is not as big as that in Ifugao but theirs is still pretty though.
Fourth stop - Kinaraha Cascades, still in Almeria. We spent 20 minutes tiring trek going to this falls. The path going down was a challenge, slippery and grassy. There's no other visitors when we get there, the spot is actually hidden. We just enjoyed the falls for 20 minutes.
Last stop - a nearby swimming pool resort in Agta beach - we just needed a place to take a a good bath. We paid Php50 each for the shower and for enjoying the pool for a while.
One whole day is not enough to visit all the beautiful spots in Biliran, a week maybe. How I wish we have stayed for few more days. Given a chance, I would love to come back and continue exploring this unpopular island.
My travel assessment (using 1-10 rating scale, 10 being highest):
Natural attractions: 8
Man-made attractions: none
Transportation convenience: 7
Food experience: 3
Hospitality: 7
Value for money: 8
Overall Rating: 7
