Tags: Natural Wonders, Vacation
by Marjorie Gorospe
CARMEN, BOHOL— Experiencing the majestic view of the world-renowned Chocolate Hills is now made even more exciting by taking the challenging trail up riding the All Terrain Vehicle (ATV).
Riding an ATV to the viewing deck is fast-becoming an equally popular attraction in the area. A rental shop could be seen at the foot of the entrance. You can choose to drive the vehicle on your own or have a guide assist you. Expect the trail to be muddy and rough but don’t worry, the ATV is especially designed to endure such. It is hard to take pictures even if you’re not the one driving. Ask your guide to stop for a while so you can have the chocolate hills as your backdrop while sitting pretty on your ATV.
You will also pass by villages where some children would challenge you to a race up the terrain — you driving the ATV while they run as fast they could. It’s up to you though to give them a reward if they win. Just make sure you don’t hit or hurt anyone.
If you’re not up to driving an ATV, try the carabao ride. However, this would take you 30 minutes longer to get to the deck.
After reaching the foot of the hills, pack yourself with patience and strength to climb the 214 steps up the viewing deck where you can wallow in the beauty of the Chocolate Hills which consists of approximately 1,268 hay cock hills ranging from 40 to 120 meters.
Scientifically, the sight was formed centuries ago by tidal movements but legend tells a more interesting history.
There was once a giant who fell in love with a beautiful village girl. The girl happened to be marrying a man her parents chose for her and so the giant kidnapped the girl and kept her in his cave. Despite giving her food and water, the girl kept crying and eventually died. The giant buried her and cried for days, months, and thousands of years. His tears, which fell to the ground, hardened and became what we now call, Chocolate Hills. Hence, this became a symbol of his unrequited love.
From the top, you would see that the natural wonder spreads over the municipalities of Carmen, Sagbayan and Batuan. The hills turn brown during summer which resemble rows of chocolate “kisses”.
After enjoying the view, take your ATV back to the rental shop where a hearty snack awaits.
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