Welcome to the Eastern Side of Rizal

What comes to your mind when someone utters “Let’s go to the province of Rizal.”? Some would think of the hometown of the national hero, while some would refer to the mountainous area of Montalban, that can be seen from some parts of Marikina and Quezon City.

For someone who grew up in the City of Antipolo, the province of Rizal (for me) is the home of the famous Daranak Falls in Tanay.

From the metro, you may reach Tanay via public and private transportation. Shuttle services are available at SM Megamall and Star Mall (Mandaluyong). Some jeepney terminals may be seen across Shangri-La Plaza mall in the Greenfield District. Via private transportation, take Ortigas Ave until you reach the Hamaka monument in Antipolo, then turn right to follow the provincial road. Road to the left will take you to the Shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Paz Y Buenviaje.

Few of my favorite spots within 10 km radius from Tanay town proper are the following:

1. Windmills in Pililia

These giant fans (similar to Ilocos) contribute to the energy sources in nearby towns.

Below is my travel buddy, Duke the Juke Skywalker. 🚖

These windmills line up just across the provincial roads to the eastern side of Laguna. 

2. Regina Rica National Shrine

Several devotees gather around even on weekdays. There are several sign boards going to the shrine, so once you’re in Tanay, you will never get lost.

I traveled with my family and my 2 yr-old pomeranian, Micmic. 🐶

3. Daranak and Batlag Falls

It was raining hard when we got there so our photos were either blurred or with several watermarks.

It was a good experience to be bathed with fresh water once in a while.

4. Jala Jala Sunflower Farm

The farm is not as big as the Cordillera Sunflower Farm, but you can choose your angle to get nice photos of these beautiful flowers.

They also sell sunflowers pots. 🌻🌻🌻

5. Momarco Nature Resort

There are several nature resorts in Tanay, but this one in Aldea, caught my eyes.

We will revisit the place next month, so watch out for more photos. 😎

There are more tourist destinations in Tanay. The San Ildefonso Church is one of the oldest

churches in Rizal and deserves a visit. The Bulawan Floating Restaurant and Lorenzo’s Grill are my favorite stop overs for a gastronomic boost. Other nature resorts are the Bakasyunan (Bali-inspired resort) and the Martessem Resort, which also offers day tours.

On your way back to the metro, you may also stop by the churches of Baras and Morong, Rizal. They are also old-school churches that deserve a visit.

When you reach Antipolo, visit the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Cathedral, and add the Hinulugang Taktak Falls to your itinerary.

From Antipolo, take Ortigas Avenue Extension, until you reach the EDSA Shrine. 😎

Until our next trip. 😎