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Mambukal Mountain Resort

Tucked away in the mountains is this beautiful mountain resort. Driving time from Bacolod varies between 40 and 90 minutes depending on the chosen mode of transport (e.g. private car vs. regional bus, that stops whenever there is a slight chance for letting one more passenger hop on board or onto the roof). We had a private car going up – thank you Mario!! – and the regional bus  coming down). While “Mountain Resort” sounds tranquil and peaceful, it also attracts many young people, who are looking for a nice place to hang out, barbecue and party. So there is something for everyone! We opted for the magnificent hike to the 7 waterfalls (approx. 3 hrs incl. return). A b s o l u t e l y   b e a u t i f u l ! And afterwards a dip in the hot sulfur springs to relax and unwind!

Mambukal, 7 falls hike

Mambukal, 7 falls hike

Tongariro National Park

Dual Unesco World Heritage Site. Home to active volcano Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe. The world-famous alpine crossing hike unfortunately was closed due to severe weather conditions. Thankfully there is no shortage of hiking opportunities. Went for a short 4hr hike to the Taranaki Falls. Fresh air, exercise and beautiful sights guaranteed!

Mt Ngauruhoe (2.291m), Tongariro N.P.

Mt Ngauruhoe (2.291m), Tongariro N.P.

Hahei Beach, the Coromandel Coast and Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove is a landmark and must-visit on the Coromandel Peninsula. Go to Hahei (just a couple of kilometers north from Hot Water Beach), hike from Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove and be mesmerized, all the way through by the coastline. And then of course Cathedral Cove: Water, wind and erosion have done their work and have left us with some awesome beauty there!

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula

 

 

Pa´s cross-island hike

Famous 6km-cross-island (or cross-mountain) trek, preferably done with Pa´s Treks, which is something like an institution on Rarotonga. It takes approx. 3hrs and will take you from the North to the South. Rewards? Learning about the local Flora and Fauna as well as getting spoiled by beautiful nature and views from “The Needle” – a high pointy rock in the middle of the island.

Cross-island hike, Rarotonga, view from "The Needle"

Cross-island hike, Rarotonga, view from “The Needle”