When it comes to Cebuano tourism, the town of Borbon seems to be overlooked among other towns. Originally a settlement site that was founded way back in 1693 by a man named Silomogue, it only became a town when Spanish occupants named it after a place in Spain: Bourbon. But some Visayan locals beg to differ that the name was originally derived from the local term “bonbon” which means sand.
Here are the 5 amazing places you must visit while you’re visiting the magnificent town of Borbon.
1. Silmugi River Park
Probably the most famous tourist spot in the town of Borbon, the Silmugi River Park is a picturesque ecotourism park with lots of mangroves. Not only that, various critters can be sighted once you go through the river with a kayak. The river is so popular that during the festival of San Sebastian, the local patron saint, the river is always highlighted.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
- Entrance Fee: NA, but taking a trip down the river, you need to rent the kayaks at a price.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Tabogon, Borbon, Northern Cebu — approx. 2.5 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Tabogon – just read the signs for Tabogon via Borbon. Inform the driver to drop you off at the municipal hall of Borbon. The river is just a short walk away and asking locals can be of great help. Bus fare is ₱80-90 per way.
2. Nonoc Cave
Originally one of the campsites for Japanese soldiers during World War II, the cave is now one of the popular tourist spots in Borbon where spelunking is one of the top activities. Hiring a tour guide while going down the cave is highly advised.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
- Entrance Fee: NA
- Tour Guide Fee: depends on negotiation, tour guides are available near the cave.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Brgy. Caranduhan, Borbon, Tabogon, Northern Cebu — approx. 2.5 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Tabogon – just read the signs for Tabogon via Borbon. Inform the driver to drop you off at Nonoc Cave in Brgy. Caranduhan. The cave is well-known among the locals. Bus fare is ₱80-90 per way.
3. Andang’s Beach House
For those who seek a cove-like ambiance by the sea, this newly opened beach house might just be perfect. Andang’s Beach House is available for rent, allowing you to bask in the place exclusively. It is also perfect for intimate occasions such as birthdays and other celebrations, while admiring the view of the sea at night.
RATES:
- Entrance fee: P35 per head
- Table: P100 (Food and drinks available)
- Tent Rental: P300
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Opening hours: 6AM to 11PM daily
- Contact numbers: N/A
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Andangs-Beach-House-109081444550708
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Cabalilitan, Borbon, Northern Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from Cebu City.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal. Look for the one heading to Borbon, and ask the driver to drop you off at Cabalilitan. From there, you can ask the locals for directions.
4. One Casita Borbon Beach Resort
Since Borbon can roughly be translated to “sand”, the Northern Part of Cebu is full of beaches – and this 4-hectare property is a combination of a beach resort and farm attraction. Other fun activities can be done in One Casita Borbon Beach Resort such as scuba diving, snorkeling and sunset cruises.
RATES:
- Promotional Room Rate: P3,500/night for double occupancy with free breakfast for two.
- (Additional guest: P650 each/night with free breakfast. The Casita is best for 4 guests both adults and children.)
- Regular Room Rate: P5,000/night for 2 guests with free breakfast
- (Additional guest: P650 with free breakfast)
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Contact and Reservation numbers: (032) 3164806; 09173247555
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ONE-Casita-at-Borbon-Beach-Farm-113346172081083
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: One Casita Borbon Beach Farm, Barangay Tabunan, Borbon, Cebu, Philippines — approx. 2-3 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Tabogon – just read the signs for Tabogon via Borbon. Inform the driver to drop you off at One Casita Borbon Beach Resort. Bus fare is ₱80-90 per way.
5. Nelmon’s Banwa
Probably the newest tourist attraction in Borbon among this list, Nelmon’s Banwa allows you to chill and be one with Mother Nature. Mainly designed with bamboo and wooden set pieces, the places resemble that of a resort in Bali and with an infinity pool and hanging bridge currently under construction, this might be Borbon’s biggest attraction soon.
RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION
- Entrance fee: P30 per person
- Operating hours: 8AM to 5PM daily
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Nelmons-Banwa-109904244216297/
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Bili, Borbon, Northern Cebu — approx 2.5 hours away from the city.
BY JEEPNEY: There is no direct public vehicle from Cebu City to Borbon. Hence you can take a PUJ to Danao. From Danao, you will then need to take another PUV to head to Borbon. From the Borbon Public Market, ask a motorbike driver to bring you to Nelmon’s Banwa/Farm.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Nelson’s Banwa” in Borbon. Parking space is available.
