Compostela Valley, shortened as ComVal, is a province in the Philippines known not just for its rich gold deposits but also of its unspoiled tourist spots. Though this province may not be on the spotlight of mass tourism in the country, it’s actually a very potential tourism hub in Mindanao that most people flock during summer.
Among the beautiful scenery of its rolling hills and mountains are distinguished peaks best for trekking. Tucked on these mountains are amazing cascades of waterfalls for some seeking adventure. And because of the presence of an active volcano, there are hot springs located on the outskirts of its towns which are best destinations for family outings. Moreover, beach resorts and a famous island located on its coastal areas are favored weekend getaway among the locals.
The province of Compostela Valley is the only province in Davao Region of Mindanao that has no “Davao” prefix on its name. It is being bordered by the provinces of Agusan del Sur (north), Davao Oriental (east) and Davao Gulf (southwest) and Davao del Norte (west). It has over 730,000+ residents that speak in mainly Cebuano, Tagalog and English languages. The municipality of Nabunturan, dubbed as the “Summer Capital of Davao Region”, is its provincial capital.
The eco-tourism destinations of the province adds more glitters to the gold, silver and other precious minerals abundant in its lands. From nature adventure to one of a kind relaxation, you’ll always have your piece of place in the province.
1. Awao Falls
Photo courtesy of wunderlex
Some waterfalls in the Philippines can really be distinguished apart from the rest, Awao Falls in the province of Compostela Valley is one of them. In this 20-meter falls, the water cascades on an rough irregular boulder that creates a beautiful curtain of waters that drops on a rocky shallow basin below. This is actually an unspoiled 3-tier falls but the first one is the most iconic of them all. If you are up for some adventure, you’ll be challenged to do rock climbing before you can reach the other tiers above. To reach Awao Falls, you have to trek about 15-30 minutes following an established trail from the jump-off point.
Awao Falls is located in Barangay Awao, Monkayo, Compostela Valley.
2. Tagbibinta Falls
Photo courtesy of tymariperez
Another famous waterfall in Compostela Valley is the Tagbibinta Falls, the most majestic waterfall in the province. The strong rushing waters drops 700 feet down the catch basin. It is being surrounded by verdant foliage and greens while the riverbed is composed of huge boulders that serves as resting grounds for visitors. If Awao Falls has 3 levels, Tagbibinta Falls has 7 levels that challenges daring adventure seekers to go up the 7th tier.
Tagbibinta Falls is situated in Barangay Coronobe, Maragusan, Compostela Valley.
3. Kopiat Island
Photo courtesy of aivanity
Kopiat Island is one the best tourist spots in Compostela Valley off the coasts of the southwestern portion of its mainland. This 87-hectare island is considered as the crown jewel of the province, fringed with coconut trees, mangroves and white sand beach. It is surrounded by clear waters teeming with marine life and corals best for snorkeling and scuba diving. Nested on this island is the Lubi Plantation, a high-end hotel resort with complete facilities for accommodation and relaxation. Visitors may relax on the infinity pool facing the Davao Gulf while a tour around the island is possible riding a golf cart.
Kopiat Island is located in Barangay Pindasan, Mabini, Compostela Valley.
4. Beach View Resort
One of the famous beach resorts in the province of Compostela Valley is the Beach View Resort. It is a well-developed and well-maintain beach resort favored by the locals as a weekend getaway destination. There are many beach front cottages on this resort, some even extends few meters away from the shoreline connected by a concrete walkway. Its white sand beach and blue waters makes it ideal for swimming. On high tide, the water meets the seawall making it deep enough to be a good time for swimming and diving. While on the other side of the beach is small lagoon perfect for kayaking.
Beach View Resort is situated in Barangay Pindasan, Mabini, Compostela Valley.
5. Mount Candalaga
Photo courtesy of Sir Jun Jun Escario Detomal Jr.
Mount Candalaga is one of the trekking destinations in the province of Compostela Valley. It stands 2,400+ meters above sea level and it takes about 3 full days to reach the summit. The trek is very difficult that you need to pass along forests, rivers and waterfalls. At the foot of the mountain, there you’ll find a unique flower called Rafflesia, admired for its beautiful bloom but ironically notorious for its foul smell. The major jump-off point of the trek is in Marangang Falls, a 13-tier falls.
Mount Candalaga is located in Barangay New Albay, Maragusan, Compostela Valley.
6. White Peak
Photo courtesy of Jay Houndz
Undoubtedly the most imposing mountain in Compostela Valley is the White Peak (Mount Pandadagsaan). One reason is that it is the highest point in the entire province standing 2,670+ meters above sea level and the other is its white appearance in contrast to the surrounding green mountains, thus the name probably derived from it. The summit offers a panorama of the Compostela Valley and looming mountains of the Davao Region including the prominent mountains of Mount Apo, Mount Candalaga, and several others.
White Peak is situated in Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Compostela Valley.
7. Haven’s Peak Highland Resort
Photo courtesy of ricfurman
Recommended by almost all of its visitors, Haven’s Peak Highland Resort is one of the best resorts in the province of Compostela Valley. It is strategically perched at the top of Tarago Hills overlooking the town of Maragusan, plains and looming mountains of the province. Visitors who are seeking to relax in a serene environment, breathing a refreshing mountain air, stay on comfortable rooms and enjoy the views, this is the best destination for you. Its facilities are enthusiastically designed to blend with its beautiful landscapes.
Haven’s Peak Highland Resort is located in Maragusan, Compostela Valley.
8. Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring
Photo courtesy of wanderingmaria1
Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring is one of the most visited tourist spots in Compostela Valley, a favored destination especially among the locals nearby. This is a unique hot spring, usually, there would be a man-made pool where you can dip your body and feel the soothing effect of the hot/warm sulfuric waters. However, in this site, it is a hot spring as well as a waterfall at the same time. You may enjoy bathing in the steaming waterfall cascading down the huge boulders or dip into some natural pools.
Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring is situated in Barangay Mainit, Maco, Compostela Valley.
9. Kanlawig Hot Spring Resort
Photo courtesy of vine_0617
Kanlawig Hot Spring Resort is one of the ideal destinations in Compostela Valley for a quick weekend getaway. It can easily be accessed since it is just meters away from the main road going to the town proper. It features a wide hot spring pool at its center while cottages and tables are erected on its sides. The area is being mantled by grasses, surrounded by verdant trees and gives an amazing view of the nearby mountains.
Kanlawig Hot Spring Resort is located in Maragusan, Compostela Valley.
10. Aguacan Cold Spring Resort
Photo courtesy of Adventureysta
One of the most popular tourist spots in Compostela Valley to cool down and relax is the Aguacan Cold Spring Resort. It has a wide man-made cold spring pool best for swimming especially during warm weather. You may also enjoy diving from the installed diving boards, or use the slide to have more fun. Beside the wide main pool is the kiddie pool which makes it an ideal destination for families. The area is surrounded by verdant greenery and camping is also a nice way to spend the night here.
Aguacan Cold Spring Resort is situated in Maragusan, Compostela Valley.
