SOMETIMES, a simple staycation in the Metro won’t cut it for a good vacation, and you need to recharge by reconnecting with nature.

Maybe you’re seeking a thrilling adventure with the lush greenery and the sapphire waves of the Philippine waters.

If you’re looking for a perfect spot to spend the approaching long weekend, here are four gems situated in the northern part of the country that can help you unwind.

Minalungao National Park, Nueva Ecija

Courtesy: Kathleen Mae Tugano on Wikimedia Commons

Derived from the terms “mina” and “lungao”, which translate to gold mines in caves, this nature hotspot in General Tinio, Nueva Ecija, is a 2,000 hectare beauty that provides an enchanting view of Peñareda River’s brilliance as it flows\ through a three-story limestone wall.

In Minalungao National Park, tourists can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as trekking, cliff diving, kayaking, and spelunking.

It opens daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors would need to pay a P20 entrance fee to gain access to this majestic sanctuary.

Nagsasa Cove, Zambales

Courtesy: Franz C. Trinidad on Wikimedia Commons

Since this site lacks both electricity and mobile signal, Nagsasa Cove is one of the most ideal places to be completely off the grid.

Located on the coast of Zambales, this paradise is a sister to the more popular Anawangin Cove and features hiking trails, nearby waterfalls, campsites, and rich local markets.

The beach is said to be an unexpected yet magnificent consequence of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991 that has completely transformed the landscape of the area.

Tinipak River, Tanay, Rizal

Courtesy: Zeus Angelo Salvo on Wikimedia Commons

Just hours away from Metro Manila, this nature’s delight that boasts dramatic marble rock formations embracing an in-cave natural swimming pool in Tanay, Rizal, will serve as a perfect getaway trip for adrenaline-junkies.

Located between Barangay Daraitan in Rizal and General Nakar in Quezon Province, the Tinipak River has been a sought-after destination for mountaineers in the country since they conquered Mt. Daraitan.

Tourists can enjoy swimming, cliff jumping, and camping for an environmental fee and a bridge fee to Tinipak Cave of P20 each.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formations, Ilocos Norte

Courtesy: Andrew Martin on Wikimedia Commons

Derived from the Ilocano word “puraw,” which means white, Kapurpurawan Rock Formations is definitely a sight to behold with delicate rock formations fronting Bangui Bay in Burgos, Ilocos Norte.

The naturally-carved limestones are approximately three kilometers away from the main road, so tourists would have to endure quite a long trek or enjoy some horseback riding for P100 to see them up close.

The entrance fee to the Kapurpurawan Rock Formations is P10 per head.