Life In the Philippines - leisure

Life in the Philippines
Conquering Linabo Peak

I have had a goal of climbing Linabo peak for over a year now, as it dominates the horizon when viewed from my house in Mediatrix Hill. I finished my daily business routine early and as the set was shining, set of with Jasmin and a friend to climb the 3003 steps.

We drove to the foot of the hill and signed the visitors book to start the climb. Concrete steps make it quite easy and there are 15 stations where you can take a breather plus a few toilets for those who get caught short. The climb was quite easy and even in the heat I hardly broke a sweat, but the two girls had quite a struggle, puffing and blowing. Arriving near the top the steps were replaced by a concrete path through a small hamlet with an elementary school before it terminated below the wireless masts that dominate the ridge. The final section was a steep rocky path with topes set up as handholds , and this was the highlight of the trip, together with the 360 degrees views from the top. One can really appreciate just how small Dipolog city really is, surrounded by extensive rice fields. Away from the coastal zone stretches mile upon mile of coconut trees and the like stretching towards distant hills, with virtually no tracks, although I can feel the urge to explore as there are occasional houses.

The return was a little harder, steps down put a lot of strain on the knees, so I just relaxed and let myself go at a steady jog keeping my knee bent. Meeting up with the girls at the bottom to drive home for lunch.

The Contractor fixing our gate arrived in the afternoon to finish fixing a channel for the gate to run in and I went into town on my mountain bike to pick up my house insurance policy. all in all a good day.

Till the next time

David Ogden
Dipolog city
+63659082832