Mt. Lantik in Nasugbu, Batangas offers a short but refreshing mountain hike. The trail has mild ascents and nice views of nearby peaks, making it ideal for beginners or people like me who want to get back into hiking. On May 2023, I visited it for the first time with my friend, Kirk.
From the summit of Mt. Lantik, there are trails going to Mt. Talamitam then on to Apayang and is also a good option if you want to maximize your time while you're in the area. (Note : Guide fee is 500 Pesos/mountain so if hiking 3 mountains, expect to pay 1,500 Pesos.)
Summer had started last month and the heat was intolerable. At first, I was worried it'll get too hot but while making our way up, cool breeze circled us. Adding to my amusement was the deafening courtship calls of male cicadas. As we approached a clearing, I soon found out why the weather was chilly - dark clouds hovered, giving a gentle warning of the coming downpour.
Approaching the summit, small drops of rain began to fall. Soon, the gentle rain turned aggressive, followed by thunder and lightning. We took cover under a makeshift nipa hut while munching on ripe guavas we picked from the trees at the summit. The nipa hut didn't offer much of a cover against the strong downpour and soon, we were soaked! There wasn't much to do as lightning had prevented us from walking around.
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| our guide, Kuya Michael |
When rain had stopped half hour later, the fog unraveled a savory scenery of misty mountains, as if to make up for the time we were stuck at the summit. After the rain, everything looked magical, even the plants look healthier and greener.
Going down was quicker but we had to be careful as the trail became muddier. Thankfully, there are shower facilities at the registration area so we were able to wash off before going back to Manila.
Registration Fee - 40 Pesos/head
Guide Fee - 500 Pesos per mountain