When we talk about Cebu, we automatically think of the urban haven that is Cebu City, the resorts in Lapu-Lapu City, the whale sharks in Oslob, or the pristine white sand beaches of Bantayan Island. But did you know that there is more to Cebu than these famous destinations? On the northeastern part of the province lies a hidden gem that is equally as breathtaking as the ones mentioned above – the town of Carmen.

About Carmen

This quaint and tranquil town is surrounded by Catmon on the North, Danao City on the South, Tuburan from the West, and the Camotes Sea by the East. Carmen, which was originally named Bugho, is an agricultural town filled with vast lands dedicated to harvesting crops like bananas and papayas, and ponds for farming white-legged shrimps, mud crabs, and milkfish. They are also famous for supplying sinamay or abaca hemp which is used to weave native products such as bags, hats, baskets, and home decor.

Popular Attractions

Just like its counterparts, Carmen boasts of various attractions worthy of a visit up north: from religious landmarks and adventure parks to resorts and natural wonders, this idyllic town is perfect for a quick getaway during the weekend or whenever you feel like taking a break from the fast-paced life in the metro.

One trip to Carmen will surely make you feel more relaxed as it is surrounded by the hues and views of nature. One of its commonly-known attractions is Carmen Bay which is a favorite hangout spot among visitors and locals alike. On weekends, families flock to the area for some afternoon stroll, or to indulge in various snacks being sold along the shore or at the floating restaurant on the bay. 

The town is also home to Lapus-Lapus Cave, a cave that famously houses a Statue of Mama Mary, and the Mangitngit Falls, one of the few falls found in North Cebu. This magnificent body of water features cool and fresh spring waters which then provides for the pools of Middle Earth Mountain Resort. Other famous spring resorts in the area are the Durano Ecofarm and Spring Resort and the Mt. Uragay Spring Resort, which used to be the main water source of Philippine Spring Water Resources, one of the biggest bottled water companies in the Philippines.

Being on the northeastern coastline of Cebu, Carmen also has its share of beaches. With a picturesque view of the Camotes Sea, the area of Luyang has become host to several private villas in Cebu. Numerous beach resorts have also chosen to open their doors within the Luyang vicinity.

If you prefer the mountainside, then you shouldn’t miss Alhibe Farm, a one-hectare private property situated in the mountains of Carmen. It provides a private and peaceful respite that lets you be one with nature. It is perfect for families and friends who want to enjoy some time off from their busy lives in the city.

If adventure is what you are after, then you’d be pleased to know that the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park, a 170-hectare sanctuary, can also be found in Carmen. Spend your day with over 120 species of animals ranging from felines, primates, and other mammals, to birds and reptiles and try various activities like zip-lining, ATV car rides, sky bikes, safari rides, and bird shows.

Culture and Heritage Places of Interest

A trip to Carmen will not be complete without visiting its religious spots which are rich in history and have withstood the test of time. Carmen is a widely religious town, and some of its most well-known landmarks prove just that.

According to local folklore, the Image of the Holy Child (Sto. Nino) found in Barangay Luyang is one of the first in the country and was believed to be left by either Magellan around 1521 or Miguel Lopez de Legazpi around 1565. The locals of Barangay Luyang are very protective of this wooden image, a sign of their devotion to Catholicism and the imagery of the Sto. Nino.

The infamous Sinulog Festival of Cebu was also said to have started in Carmen. In 1974, the locals of Carmen held their first-ever “Ati-Atihan sa Carmen”, which was renamed Sinulog Festival the year after. This is noticeably earlier than the Sinulog Festival of Cebu City which was first held in 1980. Currently, Carmen holds its annual Sinulog Festival every fourth Sunday of January.

Carmen is home to the St. Augustine of Hippo Parish, a Catholic church established way back in 1851. Two monasteries – the St. Benedict’s Monastery and the Franciscan Monastery can also be found in Corte, Carmen. If you are looking for a pilgrimage activity for the Holy Week, then take a trip to Mt. Calvary in Baring which features a rocky uphill path that features a Station of the Cross site.

Carmen’s naturally breathtaking attractions, historically and culturally rich monuments and exciting recreation spots prove that it is one of Cebu’s sleeping giants when it comes to tourism. With more and more people wanting to explore new places and go on roads less traveled, Carmen has a huge potential to become a tourism front runner for Cebu in the years to come.

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Featured Photo: SK of Carmen Cebu