Mount Mayon, an active volcano that was once said to have a perfect cone shape before its explosion years ago, is one of the highlights of our trip to Albay. In April 2022, my fellow travel bloggers and I went to Bicol for a media trip invited by the Tourism Promotions Board. Our first stopover is Sumlang Lake. The moment we arrived, I was mesmerized by the majestic beauty of the place, especially the Mt. Mayon Volcano. It’s my 2nd time in Bicol but this is the first time I had a great view of the volcano since I only saw it while we were on the bus going to Sorsogon.
Sumlang Lake, located in Camalig, Albay, is 14 hectares in size. It is one of the province’s emerging tourist destinations and is currently being developed for visitors over time. Its best feature is its untouched view of Mayon Volcano, which you’ll enjoy while riding a balsa or relaxing in one of the area’s cottages.
According to the locals, Sumlang Lake is a man-made lake. This place was teeming with water lilies in the past few years, while carabaos were known to swim and bathe in the lake. It cannot be denied that it has been upgraded and is regarded as a new tourist attraction in Albay, where you can enjoy an Instagrammable view of the majestic Mount Mayon.
THINGS TO DO IN SUMLANG LAKE
Visit the breathtaking Sumlang Lake and the renowned Mayon Volcano for their picturesque beauty!
Explore the rich culture of southern Luzon by attending their cultural demo
We were able to attend the cultural stations in each cottage adjacent to the gift shop. You can observe a cooking demonstration of pinangat, a popular Bicolano dish composed mainly of taro leaves and various spices cooked in coconut milk. This dish pairs well with either rice or bread, which are popular breakfast options for Bicolanos.
Aside from that, we were also able to witness how strips of abaca (a type of natural fibre) are prepared and used to weave local products, such as bags.
Enjoy a relaxing ride on a bamboo raft as you take in the stunning scenery of Albay.
Each of us was able to experience kayaking on the lake. It is prohibited to swim here, but you can still enjoy the place by renting a bamboo raft that includes outdoor seating that can be used for photo opportunities while enjoying the view of Mayon Volcano.
Try their local delicacies at Socorro’s Lakeside Restaurant and Grille while enjoying the view of Mayon Volcano
If you get hungry while you’re at Sumlang Lake, you don’t need to go out anymore since it also has a restaurant inside named Socorro’s Lakeside Restaurant and Grille, which serves a variety of regional specialities, including Bicol express and pinangat. I highly recommend to try their camote pie with cheese, you’ll surely love it!
Socorro’s Lakeside Restaurant and Grille also have outdoor dining where you can have an amazing view the Mt. Mayon. You can also take a photo here while waiting for your food to be served.
Avail of their local products at their Souvenir shop
You’ll find some of Albay’s finest products in the souvenir shop, such as woven bags, baskets, and home furnishings with natural accents. You can also purchase edible souvenirs, including pili and other sweets.
How To Go To Sumlang Lake
Legazpi City, Albay is 30 minutes away from Sumlang Lake.
Here are the directions for the commute:
From Legazpi:
Travel to Camalig, Guinobatan, or Polangui via jeepney. Ask that the driver to drop you off at Agri-Village (Albay Agri Ethno Eco Village). Take a tricycle or walk for five minutes to reach Sumlang Lake.
Rates:
- Entrance fee P100 per person / P80 – seniors / P60 – children
- Environmental fee P20 per person
- Parking P10 -two- and three-wheels / P20 – cars
- Balsa ride P80 per person (30 min)
- Kayak P100 per person (30 min)
- Aqua bike P100 per person (30 min)
- Fishing Fish feeding – P20
- Equipment rental – P50
- Fish – P150 per kilo
Tips to Sumlang Lake
- Sumlang Lake is accessible daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.
- The best time to go to Sumlang Lake is between the morning and afternoon, when you can see the volcano’s reflection in the water.
- Cagsawa Ruins and Quitinday Hills are located close to Sumlang Lake. If you wish to visit each of these, you may rent a tricycle. Or you can simply book a day trip package in Albay, where it is included.
