Batan Island is the central island in the Philippines northernmost province, Batanes, and is dominated by Mount Iraya, an active volcano. Visitors of the region will land in her shadow at Basco, the main town and home to all the hotels and homestays.
The southern half of the island also has a volcano, although this one is inactive and considerably smaller than its giant brother to the north. However the two collaborate together to create a magnificent rolling landscape that is a favorite among Pinoy photographers.
Although I spent several days exploring Batanes only one day was dedicated to photographing the main island — and just my luck it would be cloudy and sprinkling on and off the entire time. Short on time and unable to extend my stay in the region I was forced to go out and shoot it anyway.
So please don’t let my cloudly, lackluster photos deter you from visiting Batanes
The House Of Estrella (more popularly known as the House Of Dakay, after Jose “Dakay” Estrella) was built in 1877 and is the oldest house on Batan Island. The roof is made of thatched cogon and is replaced every 25-30 years, depending on its thickness.
Life on Batan Island goes at a much slower pace
This old Spanish bridge was built in the mid-1800s using lime instead of concrete and is still in use today
See the building on the left? That used to be a small American Navy station but is now being turned into a museum.
Taken from the cliffs looking back towards the island and single road that wraps around it. The old Navy buildings from the previous photo are visible here on the far right.
Here’s a gift for all you Pinners 😉
Mount Carmel Church, Batan Island
Interior of San Carlos Borromeo Church
A-10-TION: NO TRESPASS!NG (with Mount Iraya in the background)
Known as Boulder Beach, these rocks originally came from a volcano eruption in the 1400s and have since been rounded and polished smooth by the waves and the years.
Panoramic of the Vayang Rolling Hills, Batan Island
These caves were carved out through the mountain by the Japanese in WWII. They have tunnel exits at all four points of the compass, allowing them to easily observe approaching ships from all directions.
Boat Shelter Port on Batan Island
Local kids play a game of basketball outside of the school on Sunday morning
The Great Road of Batanes
Rolling hills of Vayang via Dreidel of Why Stop Over
Want more Batanes? Sabtang Island, Jewel of Batanes
Woowww … It’s a great place to visit although only for a while!
I also hate when the sky is just bland white or cloudy … Not good for photos … but still need to take the photo! Lol …
Yup, so true…unfortunately when traveling some things are beyond our control. All we can do is try to make the best of it. Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Eh hai Tim! Hahaha
Anyway, the photos may look cloudy but I love how the buildings look like they are not in Asia. Especially with the narrow land and the exterior wall of the houses. Amazing. And green too!
I’m so jealous of your travels in the Philippines and Batan sounds fantastic. I love your photo of the boat shelter port.
Thanks. Yeah I’ve been to the Philippines more times than anywhere else…except Indonesia. Although I’ve heard lots about Batanes in previous trips this was my first opportunity to visit for myself. If you ever get the chance to visit the Phils, definitely take it! You will love this amazing and friendly country 🙂
I will do for sure!
Whoa.. The hills are amazing!! Thanks for sharing info about this wonderful island! 🙂
Thanks Kania, glad you enjoyed the photos. Definitely visit Batanes if you ever get the chance 🙂
uv got em really cooooool…breathtaking….