Camalig Travel Guide
Camalig is an ancient town in the province of Albay, Philippines. It was founded in the mid-16th century and retains much of its colonial charm and heritage homes.
- Worth It?
- Camalig is nostalgic and worth a visit for anyone in the area.
- What to Do
- visit historic homes, go caving, view the church.
- Best Time to Go
- from December to April when the weather is dry.
- How Long?
- A day or two is enough to see the sites.
- Trivia
- St John's Church owes its opulence to competing families eager to out-donate one another in the 19th century.
The historic buildings of Camlig are everywhere. Some have been converted into atmospheric restaurants and shops while others have been restored and are open for tours. Most of what is standing today was built in the 1800s, though the historical roots of the site are likely to date back further.
Pinangat is a famous food product from Camalig. It is a vegetable dish prepared with taro, chillies, coconut milk and gabi leaves. The latter is heavily cultivated here in the fertile valleys of the volcano. The dish may also include pork or seafood. Part of any visit to Camalig includes seeking out the best Pinangat restaurant.
Travel to Camalig - Getting There
Ligaspi City Airport is only 25 minutes from Camalig and can be reached by minivan, jeepney or taxi. From here it is a 45-minute flight to Manila's international airport, which serves as gateway to the Philippines. Accommodation options are slim in Camalig, and most tourists base themselves in Legaspi.
Camalig Things to Do
Camalig Attractions
Ancestral houses Camalig's heritage homes are the main attraction and can be seen across this ancient city.
St John the Baptist Church this historic building weathered three wars (the Spanish-American and both World Wars) and remains an icon for the city. It is built from volcanic stones.
Side trips from Camalig
-
Hoyop Cave
- this cave is a popular daytrip destination only 20 minutes from Camalig. Tours are available with the lights on or off.
Events
-
Pinangat Festival
- the month of May is set aside for celebrating Camalig's favorite food product.

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