It takes a while to get to these destinations, but the journey is worth it for these beautiful views and unhampered peace and quiet

Published 6:36 PM, September 20, 2015

The fine, white sand beaches, cerulean waters and stunning landscapes of popular destinations such as Boracay, Bohol, and Cebu are usually on everyone's travel lists year-round. These provinces have all the facilities, high-end resorts, world-class restaurants and readily available transport to take you wherever you want to go.

But there are many more places in the Philippines to satiate a traveler's thirst for adventure. Here are just a few:

Lake Sebu

The long trip to Lake Sebu will reward you with fresh air, the sight of verdant forests and mountains, and the Seven Falls. (READ: Mornings made better at Lake Sebu)

The seven falls are Hikong Alo, Hikong Bente, Hikong B'Lebel, Hikong Ukol, Hikong Tonok, and Hikong K'Fo-I, all of which arehidden in the forest. Adventurous and outdoorsy travelers will enjoy a trek to get to each one. (READ: 9 spectacular places to visit in Mindanao)

If you don't want to tire yourself trekking, Lake Sebu is home to one of the longest zip lines in the region. Measuring 740m long, fly over the mountains and get a glimpse of Hikong Bente, Hikong K'Fo-I, and Hikong Lowig as you glide through the air for approximately a minute. (READ: Hit the road: Cool off at these 5 PH waterfalls)

The second zip line measures 420m long and lets you scream your lungs out and imitate Superman for around 30 seconds. (READ: IN PHOTOS: 8 PH lakes to add to your travel bucket list)

For those who want to relax after an adventurous day, Lake Sebu boasts landscapes of mountains and picturesque lakes with blooming lotuses. The many resorts and guesthouses provide different views of the lakes; rent a kayak for P25 or book a lake cruise with cultural show and lunch for P200.

The Tbolis or dream weavers call Lake Sebu home; they weave patterns using sap and wood to produce the iconic effect seen in their different handmade products.

How to get to Lake Sebu: There are direct flights from Manila to General Santos City. Upon arrival, head to Bulaong Bus Terminal and ride bus bound for Marbel, the fare is P83 one-way. Once at the terminal, get on a van that travel to Surallah for P20 one-way.

Once you arrive at Surallah, ride a van bound for Lake Sebu for P35 one-way. Once at Lake Sebu, hire a habal-habal or motorcycle for P50 to take you to your chosen accommodation.

Quirino

Heading north will typically take you to places like Baguio, Ilocos, Sagada and Banaue, and this landlocked province in the mountains has plenty of adventures in store for those who visit.

The towering rock formations, formed by the push and pull of nature with its curves, sudden drops and ascents, flank the Siitan River where visitors can go tubing.

After riding down the river, jump off a 15-feet high cliff to cap off the day.

The sweeping view of the rise and fall of hills, mountains and rock formations as the sun sets on Landingan Viewpoint make the ride through the labyrinthine roads worthwhile.

The Aglipay Caves have 37 chambers, 8 of which are open for tourists. The walk, crawl and slithering through widening and narrowing walkways are part of the adventure. Get ready to get dirty, as you have to use your hands, sit down and bend to get through muddy surroundings.

This subterranean adventure will reveal rock formations that take on various shapes; only your imagination will limit what you see.

Quirino is the destination for travelers looking for adventure, with the many caves, rivers and cliffs this province is ideal for eco-tourism.

How to get to Quirino: Bus companies such as GV Florida, Five Star and Northern Luzon Bus Line travel from Metro Manila to Quirino for approximately P500 one-way.

Once in Quirino, it is best to rent a jeep for P1500 for the whole day to visit the many attractions. There is a P250 fee for tubing, P25 entrance fee for the cave and a P500 guide fee.

Batad

A part of the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List, Batad's amphitheater-like fields are a fetching sight, with its