Leave the cube: Palawan: Mount Tapyas and Maquinit Hot Springs

While Coron Island might be best known for its beautiful white beaches and breathtaking lagoons, there are other places that can be enjoyed in Coron Town itself. Two of these things are climbing up the steps of Mount Tapyas to enjoy a panoramic view of the island and relaxing at the Maquinit Hot Springs.

Get ready to stretch before going up Mt. Tapyas! There are exactly 714 steps to climb before reaching the top of the mountain.

Don't worry though, because there are many places to catch your breath once the climbing becomes to tiring.

The view gets better and better as you reach the top of the mountain.

Just to share a little story during our climb: there was a little boy selling cold drinks in a cooler at the foot of the mountain, but since we already loaded up on water before leaving the hotel, we didn't buy anything from the boy. But lo and behold, this kid was persistent and actually climbed along with us carrying his cooler! His persistence paid off in the end because when we reached the top of the mountain we were so thirsty and had no choice but to buy the little boy's drinks!

At the top of Mt. Tapyas is a cross-like structure that can be seen throughout the island.

For me though, the more breathtaking view can be seen at the fields at the back of the cross.

Just look at those lush green mountains and grass lined pathways!

Kind of makes you feel like you've gone back in time.

My friends and I say "Hi!".

After the very tiring climb up Mt. Tapyas, a perfect way to rest those tired muscles is by a relaxing dip at the Maquinit Hot Springs.

One can enjoy a view of the sea while taking a dip at the hot springs.

The hot spring is very enjoyable because the water is naturally warm and relaxing.. Don't stray to the parts of the hot spring where the water is very hot. Beware also of leaning into the walls of the pool since it is covered with sea moss (or "lumot" in Filipino).