Luzon

Batanes

Batanes · Philippines

The remote northernmost province, a windswept landscape of rolling green hills, stone houses, lighthouses, and dramatic cliffs shaped by the Ivatan and the sea.

Places to visit

Marlboro Hills (Racuh a Payaman)

Mahatao, Batan Island

Rolling communal pasturelands running to sea cliffs, the iconic image of Batanes.

Basco Lighthouse

Naidi Hills, Basco

A hilltop lighthouse with panoramic views over the town and coastline, a favourite at sunset.

Sabtang Island

A short, sometimes rough boat crossing to villages of traditional Ivatan stone houses and stone-walled coves.

Valugan Boulder Beach

Basco

A shore of smooth volcanic boulders left by Mount Iraya, facing the Pacific.

Vayang Rolling Hills

Basco

Open ridgeline hills with wide views of the sea and distant islands.

Local tips

Weather rules everything

Boat trips to Sabtang and flights can be cancelled by weather; build slack into your itinerary and go March to June for the calmest conditions.

Rent a bike or e-bike

Batan Island is compact and stunning to explore by bicycle or scooter along quiet coastal roads.