Bohol Tourist and Historical Attractions

That We Visited Last 11–14 February 2009

BLOOD CAMPACT SITE

Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran City: An historical marker marks the location where Datu Sikatuna, a native Chieftain, forged a blood compact with Don Miguel Lopez de Legazpi representing the King of Spain, for the purpose of fostering friendly relations between the two nations. The Blood Compact on March 16, 1565 is considered as the first "Treaty of Friendship" between Europe and Asia.

ALONA BEACH

Panglao -- A long stretch of white sand facing the Mindanao Sea, Alona has many full-service beach and dive resorts. Excellent scuba diving is nearby and trips to Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands can be arranged.

DOLJO BEACH

Panglao -- Ideal for scuba diving, the long stretch of white sand fronts undisturbed coral reefs harboring numerous fish and beautiful sea shells. The waters are clear and calm.

CHOCOLATE HILLS

Carmen -- This is the most famous tourist attraction in Bohol. Among the thousands of perfectly cone-shaped hills which abound in Central Bohol, two of the hills have been developed into a resort. On top of the hill are two youth hostels with a conference room, cozy cottages with private rooms and accommodation. On top of the second hill is an observation deck with 213 concrete steps. Once on top, one can view the exquisite panorama of God's wondrous creation spread as far as the eyes can see.

Food is served at the restaurant The site is connected by a cemented winding road to the main highway.

LOBOC RIVER

Loboc -- A fascinating boat ride along the Loboc River has recently been discovered. Starting from Loay Bridge which is the outlet of Loboc River, motorized pump boats start the exciting boat ride along palm-fringed banks inland. The water is serene. The boat ride ends near the Busay Falls where the cascading water provides a pleasant bathing spot.

BUSAY FALL

Sevilla -- Busay Falls are located inland of the Loboc River past Sevilla town. These beautiful falls provide an exciting scenery for bathers who flock here during weekends. Two little islets in the middle of the river make the place an ideal site for picnickers.

HINAGDANAN CAVE

Dauis -- An eerie underworld cavern of stalactites and stalagmites its underground pool catches fresh, cool water gushing from its rock walls. Shafts of sunlight pierce through two natural openings almost directly above the pool. It is located about 2 1/2 km from the Poblacion.

BACLAYON CHURCH

Baclayon -- The oldest stone-church in the Philippines was built by the Jesuits in 1595. Its ancient massive edifice still retains its centuries-old architectural design. Church relics and artifacts from this early period can be viewed at the adjacent museum.

DAUIS CHURCH

Dauis -- One of Bohol's most beautiful churches, its semi-modern facade still retains the original Spanish architecture. The interior has lifelike murals painted on the ceiling.

The patron saint, the Virgin of the Assumption, is believed to possess miraculous powers and is the object of veneration particularly during its annual festivities. Legend has it that when the town was invaded by pirates, the town folk locked themselves inside the church until they ran out of provisions and water. Suddenly a well appeared at the foot of the altar where people started drawing water. It is still the main source of water for people living in the church vicinity. The water is, surprisingly, absolutely fresh even though the well is located a short distance from the sea.