Holy Week is fast approaching, and with it comes the most-awaited “long weekend” for students and everyone, especially us Sugboanons. So, if you plan on taking a week off work and spending the Lenten Season reflecting and unwinding simultaneously while staying within the city limits, this list is for you!
Temple of Leah
The Temple of Leah, with its awe-inspiring architecture reminiscent of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, holds a unique and heartwarming story. It gained widespread attention when the tale of its creation was shared with visitors, revealing a man’s enduring love and devotion to his departed wife. This narrative of love and loss infuses the entire place with a palpable sense of romance, inviting you to step into their story.
Every detail of the Temple of Leah, from its majestic staircase to its grand entrance, from the columns to the ceilings, is a work of art that begs to be captured. When you visit, ensure your camera or phone is fully charged and has ample storage to preserve these breathtaking moments. After your photography session, you can indulge in a delightful meal at the nearby Italian restaurant, Ristorante Teodorico, adding a culinary adventure to your visit.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Entrance fee: ₱100 per person (10 years old and below are free)
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating hours: 6AM to 11PM daily
- Contact number: 0935 195 8794
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Facebook Page: Temple of Leah Facebook
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Graje Roosebelt Rd, Cebu City, Philippines
- BY HABAL-HABAL: From JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City, you can take a motortaxi and inform the driver to drop you off at the Temple of Leah. Motortaxi riders already know the place and will usually charge between Php100.00 – Php200.00.
- BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Temple of Leah”.
TanChan Celestial Garden
The TanChan Celestial Garden, a must-visit during the Lenten Season, stands out for its unique blend of religious significance and serene ambiance. Known as “The Good Shepherd,” it features towering statues depicting the “Way of the Cross,” a path followed by Catholic devotees for self-reflection and to relive the passion of Christ. This garden, also a private cemetery, offers a tranquil atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.
Not just a place of religious significance, the TanChan Celestial Garden also offers a variety of recreational activities. Its picturesque landscapes provide the perfect setting for a leisurely break on the lush green grass. Locals often organize picnics and volleyball games, while others enjoy the breathtaking view of the city lights from the garden, which overlooks the skyline of Cebu City.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Entrance fee: No fee.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating hours: Open 24 Hours
- Contact number: 0933 038 2526
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Banawa Hills, Cebu City. Near the convent of the contemplative and apostolic Good Shepherd Sister.
- BY COMMUTE: Take a jeep or bus going to Banawa and tell the driver to drop you off at Banawa’s main road. Head to Salvador Street and ride a motorcycle uphill. The ride is approximately 5 minutes.
- BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “TanChan Celestial Garden” in Banawa, Cebu.
Plaza Independencia
Plaza Independencia, a treasure trove of history and beauty, stands as one of the grandest parks in Cebu City. It boasts the Spanish military defense structure, Fort San Pedro, where you can marvel at canon barrels, old Filipino clothing, and other historical archives. Beyond the Fort, the park offers a unique experience of people-watching from the comfort of its benches. For a touch of nostalgia, you can hop on a calesa and capture memories with guards dressed in Spanish-regime uniforms; a small tip is customary after a photo session.
For those seeking an active adventure, Plaza Independencia also offers the perfect setting for a jog. So, if you’re up for a calorie-burning session amidst the park’s serene ambiance, lace up your running shoes and hit the jogging path.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Entrance fee: The park is free while a Php30.00 entrance fee will be collected to enter the Fort.
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating hours: The park is open 24 hours but Fort San Pedro operates from 7AM to 7PM.
- Fort San Pedro Contact Number: (032) 256 2284
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: A.Pigafetta, Cebu City, Central Visayas, Philippines
- BY CAR: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Plaza Independencia Cebu”.
South Road Properties
Although business establishments and restaurants will be closed during Holy Week, you can still enjoy the amazing view of the sunrise and sunset at South Road Properties, commonly known as SRP. There are benches facing the sea where you can unpack a picnic basket, play with your furbaby, or simply have a date while enjoying the breeze.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: South Road Properties, Cebu City, Central Visayas, Philippines
- BY COMMUTE: From the Plaza Independencia Cebu, you can walk to the SRP by following where the sea is at and using the path laid for bicycle riders on the left-most corner of the road. Further into your stroll, you can find a little pavilion where you can stay at.
Kan-Irag Camp
The best part about the city of Cebu is that it is surrounded by the sea and mountains, meaning you can also go up for a hike or settle in at your preferred camping grounds. For beginners and leisure campers, Mt. Kan-Irag is the household name.
Hiking to the camping ground may take 20 to 30 minutes, but fret not because the way to it is not too sloped; unless it rains, always be prepared for the ever-changing weather conditions.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
- Entrance fee: Php50.00 per pax (may change without prior notice, depending on the day and event)
OTHER INFORMATION
- Operating hours: Open 24 Hours
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Kang-irag Langob-Sirao, Cebu City
- BY COMMUTE: From JY Mall in Lahug, Cebu City, hail a motortaxi and inform the driver that you’ll be going to Mt. Kang-Irag’s dropoff point. Fare can range from Php150.00 to Php300.00, depending on the driver.
Whether you plan to relax and lie on the grass or hike up to a mountain, Cebu City offers options even during the Lenten Season. And the best part is that most places you can go to are free—taking a break without breaking the bank!
