In the mountain barangay of Nug-As, Alcoy, a breathtaking sight awaits those who rise before dawn. Known as the Sea of Clouds, this natural phenomenon can be seen from Mt. Campetra, a vantage point within the Nug-As Forest Reserve, one of the last remaining rainforests on Cebu.
The Road to the Highlands
Reaching Mt. Campetra requires an early start, as the Sea of Clouds is best viewed between 5:00 and 6:00 in the morning. Visitors travel through winding mountain roads, passing cool, misty landscapes before arriving at the peak. The air grows colder with the climb, setting the tone for the spectacle that unfurls at first light.
Nature’s Morning Display
As the sun begins to rise, thick layers of cloud and fog settle over the valley, creating the illusion of an ocean with treetops peeking through like islands. The view transitions as the light changes, with golden rays illuminating the rolling mist. Cameras often capture the scene, but the true scale of the spectacle is best experienced in person.
A Sanctuary in the South
Beyond its visual appeal, Nug-As Forest Reserve is an ecological treasure. It is home to rare and endemic wildlife, including the earless Cebu Hawk Owl and the Siloy, or Black Shama. These species, along with the reserve’s dense canopy, emphasize the importance of protecting this ecosystem.
A High-Altitude Escape
Even after the clouds disperse, pockets of fog often linger in the area, and temperatures remain cool throughout the morning. The setting has earned Nug-As the nickname “Little Baguio of Alcoy,” offering a refreshing change from Cebu’s coastal climate.
How To Get There?
Location:Barangay Nug-as, Alcoy, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Navigate Nug-as Forest Reserve via Waze or GoogleMap.
By Commute: From Cebu City, ride a bus or van heading to Alcoy, then upon arrival, take a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) up to the forest’s trailhead, your jump-off point is near the reserve and just a short climb away.
For travelers searching for a peaceful and awe-inspiring natural experience, the Sea of Clouds at Nug-As stands as one of southern Cebu’s most captivating sights, a fleeting morning wonder framed by the island’s last great forest.
