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Last Updated on: 28th May 2023, 06:39 pm

Melt Your Stress Away and Find Peace at the Dariok Hills in Balintocatoc, SANTIAGO CITY

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Melt Your Stress Away and Find Peace

at the Dariok Hills in Balintocatoc, Santiago

  
   

Escape the chaos of everyday life and discover a serene haven nestled in the heart of Santiago City – Dariok Hills. Embrace the tranquility of this natural sanctuary, a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with yourself and find solace in nature.

 

From the moment you arrive at Dariok Hills, you’ll be enchanted by its breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere. Take a moment to immerse yourself in the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, letting the calmness of this nature reserve wash over you.

   

Dariok Hills offers the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your spirit and find inner peace. Allow the stresses of daily life to melt away as you bask in the tranquil setting of this idyllic location.

 

Experience the allure of Dariok Hills, an oasis that revitalises both mind and soul. Embrace the simplicity and beauty of nature as you embark on a journey of self-reflection and introspection.

 

Leave behind the hustle and bustle of Santiago City and embrace the serenity of Dariok Hills. Let the harmony of this natural sanctuary envelop you as you seek peace and rejuvenation. Discover the wonders of Dariok Hills, your gateway to tranquility in Santiago City.

     

   

We have included some springtime photography from England 

to inspire you to meditate in life during this Lenten Season. 

If you are interested in checking out our springtime photography, 

check this link: 

   

  

VISIONS OF SPRINGTIME UNITED KINGDOM

 
 
     
   
UK SPRINGTIME FLOWERS: CROCUS CHRYSANTHUS ‘ROMANCE’
BLACKTHORN – PRUNUS SPINOSA
  
BLACKTHORN- PRUNUS SPINOSA
  
NARCISSUS PSEUDONARCISSUS (WILD DAFFODIL)
   
NARCISSUS PSEUDONARCISSUS (WILD DAFFODIL)
  
NARCISSUS PSEUDONARCISSUS (WILD DAFFODIL)
    
CRANBERRY COTONEASTER (COTONEASTER APICULATUS)
  
ROSE HIP

   

DARIOK HILLS,

BALINTOCATOC, 

SANTIAGO CITY

    

Discover the hidden gem of Dariok Hills, a tranquil oasis just a short drive from Santiago City. If you’re yearning to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Dariok Hills offers a serene and peaceful retreat that will rejuvenate your senses.

 

Embrace the beauty of nature without breaking the bank. Entry to Dariok Hills is absolutely free, although you’ll need to pass through a friendly security guard at the entrance gate. This picturesque destination, reminiscent of Tagaytay, Laguna, and the tropical charm of Bali, is something that the people of Santiago City can truly be proud of.

 

Dariok Hills is a blend of privately owned and government properties, but its main attractions are the 12 stations of the Cross, the Transfiguration Chapel, and the Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette. These sites draw in devout visitors during the Lenten Season Holy Week, making it a significant pilgrimage spot.

 

Legend has it that the place was known by two names, Elintocatoc and Balintocatoc, which were used interchangeably. Eventually, the community decided to choose a single name, opting for “Balintocatoc” due to its logical and meaningful association. Elintocatoc, meaning “to go uphill,” represents the journey of ascending, while Balintocatoc, meaning “to go downhill,” symbolises the return back.

 

Getting to Dariok Hills is convenient, whether you prefer private or public transport. Private vehicles enjoy free parking, and there are no entrance fees. If you opt for public transport, you can take a tricycle from Santiago City proper. Just remember to negotiate the fare upfront, especially if you appear to be a tourist. As for price guidance, expect to pay no more than 1 GBP, and make sure to have Philippine currency as foreign currencies are not accepted by locals.

 

The amount of time to allocate for your visit depends on your intentions. If you simply want to explore and capture the breathtaking scenery, a short one-hour tour is sufficient. However, if you’re seeking some introspection or soul-searching, plan for a half-day excursion or more. You can even extend your stay for a picnic lunch, enjoying the various beautiful spots (note that they are not covered, so check the weather beforehand).

 

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Dariok Hills, where nature’s beauty and peaceful ambiance await your arrival. Embark on a memorable journey to this enchanting destination near Santiago City and create lasting memories amidst its serene landscapes.

  

 

 

 

   

THE PASSION OF CHRIST

    

Welcome to the breathtaking Dariok Hills in Santiago City, where nature’s beauty takes centre stage. As we ascend to the hilltop, the scene before us evokes a sense of solemnity, reminiscent of the crucifixion of Jesus alongside two others. While my knowledge of biblical stories is limited, I am fortunate to have a knowledgeable tour guide who can provide a crash course in Religion 101.

   

While I take pride in my spiritual growth, I must acknowledge that spiritual maturity differs from having an extensive knowledge of religious teachings. Personally, I consider myself a deeply spiritual individual rather than religious. However, I’ll leave the intricacies of religious discourse for you to contemplate. After all, this blog post is about travel, not religion… 🙂

   

If you wish to delve deeper into the subject of “The Passion of Christ”, I recommend an informative post by the BBC. For a comprehensive understanding, click on the link below:

The Passion of Christ

  

But let’s refocus our attention on the mesmerizing Dariok Hills, where rolling landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas await. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural wonder as you explore Santiago City’s crown jewel, Dariok Hills. Discover the hidden treasures of this picturesque destination and let its serene beauty captivate your senses.

 

Unleash your wanderlust and embark on a journey to Dariok Hills in Santiago City. Experience the harmony of nature, embrace its tranquility, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Uncover the magic of Dariok Hills and let its allure transport you to a world of serenity and wonder.

 

 

    

   

 

 

 

Experience the profound spirituality of Dariok Hills in Santiago City, where every step unveils a deeper connection to your existence. As you ascend the hills, immerse yourself in the scenes that invite meditation and introspection.

 

One notable depiction is that of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, carrying her lifeless son, Jesus, as she mourns His death. While the accuracy of the portrayal may vary, the true essence lies in the profound symbolism and spiritual significance it holds.

 

Dariok Hills transcends the mere details, much like the contemplation of whether Jesus was born on Christmas Day. What truly matters is the spiritual message conveyed, which can only be truly comprehended through the inner workings of the Holy Spirit.

 

Without the guiding presence of the Holy Spirit, life can often feel superficial and lacking depth. This understanding stems from personal experience and may not be universally agreed upon. However, within the tranquil embrace of Dariok Hills, you have the opportunity to embark on your own profound spiritual journey.

   

   

   

ANG SAMPUNG UTOS NG DIYOS

   

This is the depiction of The Ten Commandments on a stone tablet

Of course, now its in Tagalog Version, or Filipino.

   

    

   

CHURCH OF TRANSFIGURATION, DARIOK HILLS   
CHURCH OF TRANSFIGURATION, DARIOK HILLS

HILLTOP GARDEN WITH FIGURES ON A CROSS, DARIOK HILLS, SANTIAGO CITY  

CHURCH OF TRANSFIGURATION

   

TRANSFIGURATION CHAPEL    

HILLTOP WITH FIGURES ON A CROSS, DARIOK HILLS
HILLTOP WITH FIGURES ON A CROSS, DARIOK HILLS
HILLTOP WITH FIGURES ON A CROSS, DARIOK HILLS

   

LOVE LOCKS OF FOREVER

#ILOVESANTIAGOCITY

  

This is the Santiago City version of the Paris ‘love locks’ 

which unfortunately in 2015 was removed 

due to a collapsed railing of the Ponts des Arts in Paris France. 

   

 

   

   
I LOVE SANTIAGO CITY, DARIOK HILLS
I LOVE SANTIAGO CITY, DARIOK HILLS
DARIUK HOUSE

   

DARIUK HOUSE

   

Not quite sure what is Dariuk House for. 

It could be a restaurant, hotel, cafe, or a function hall. 

The property sits facing the lawn. 

It was closed when we visited. 

   

  From SANTIAGO CITY,

you can explore the rest of CAGAYAN VALLEY, BAGUIO CITY,

and even do a short drive to AURORA PROVINCE

 

As always, STAY ZEN! BE ZEN!

   

   


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