24 hours in Lucban, Quezon: Discover a Retreat for the Senses

So many things to do!
by Joyce Placino | July 19, 2016

Every year, on the merry month of May, people flock to Lucban, Quezon to marvel at the beautifully-decked houses in celebration of a bountiful harvest, known as the Pahiyas Festival. The normally quiet town explodes in colors and creativity through in the use of colorful dried rice paste (kiping), and various fruits and vegetables.  It is usually enough reason to head on to the idyllic province. But there’s more to love and explore in Quezon, even after it reverts back to its tranquil self after the revelries.

Quezon province is a mere three to four-hour road trip away from Manila; ideal for a quiet, a spur-of-the-moment urban escape. Here are places to discover and experiences to make if one is to spend a whole day in this quaint town.

For one, Quezon is very accessible either by private or public transport. If commuting, Quezon locals highly-recommend JAC Liner trips to Lucena, which will take passengers to Grand Central, Lucena in a few hours. From there , practically every place in Quezon can be reached through the convenience of a tricycle that’s widely available.

Kick-off the Quezon spree by visiting popular stopovers upon reaching Lucena—the city that one passes through before getting to Lucban. Go on a coffee adventure at the deliciously affordable Café Jungle, then go for a bathroom break at the incredibly well-known, Restroom 20 at the PTT gas station. Lounge in this posh restroom for a mere PHP20 and, at the same time contribute to making the world a better place, as proceeds go to charity.

Book a room at Batis Aramin, a 14-room hotel and resort with swimming pools, sports courts and villas, situated at the lush foot of Mt. Banahaw. It’s exclusive and cozy ambience guarantees quality R&R to every guest, especially since it’s a stone’s throw away from another “must-visit” in Lucban:  the healing church and grotto of Kamay ni Hesus Shrine. Whether you’re a devoted Catholic or not, trailing the 305-step grotto to see the 50-foot statue of the ascending Christ, is still a worthy experience.

Come lunch time, go on a short 10-minute trip to Tayabas via a tricycle for some remarkable dining. Enjoy seafood at its finest at the floating restaurant, Kamayan sa Palaisdaan. Revered as the number one tourist spot in Quezon for being the home of Filipino food, everyone can enjoy fresh seafood cooked right after they’re caught.

For something a little more extraordinary, head on to Air Summit Gourmet—an airplane converted into a unique dining establishment. Servers are dressed as flight attendants to complete the experience. Sure, the plane concept is what attracts customers, but the food doesn’t disappoint. Definitely a must-visit!

Then, head on back to explore the whole town of Lucban. It’s a really small place and one can simply tour the town, and see the heritage houses, in just about an hour or two of leisure walking. And if you’re still on the lookout for adventure, Majayjay Falls is just a few kilometers from Lucban. Delight in this natural spectacle and take a refreshing dip in its  bracing waters.

Wrap up your trip by going around tasting the delicacies that the town is known for. Make sure to try out Quezon’s pride, like the pancit Habhab, pako salad, and of course, Lucban longganisa.

Lastly, if you’re planning to shop for souvenirs, make sure that you bring an eco bag because Lucban strictly implements the “No Plastic Bags Policy.”