December 24, 2021

If you're looking for a dream destination in the Philippines' northernmost region that you can wander without wasting too much of your wallet, Ilocos Norte is an excellent choice.

Not only will you be able to admire stunning buildings that date back hundreds of years, but you will also get a knowledge of the culture and history of the region, making the lengthy travel to the province worthwhile.

Note that it is not sponsored. I just love sharing the photos of some of the places you may see when you travel to Ilocos Norte.

Sarrat Church

Photo by ButchokoyD of flickr.com

The Sarrat Church, or Santa Monica Church, which is located in a tranquil setting, is the first one on the list. It has a great architectural design. You may also visit the remains near the church, which are in addition to the church. This peaceful setting is an excellent location for a pleasant walk inside historical walls. And if you are a nature lover, you'll love the place because it is surrounded by trees.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Photo by Jose Peralta Reyes of flickr.com

The Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is one of the most famous tourist sites in Ilocos Norte, despite the fact that it is more than a century old and still functioning. The lighthouse is still in use today. It is a gigantic 66-foot-tall tower that towers above Cape Bojeador and provides spectacular views. While the Philippines was still under Spanish dominion, it was the first time it was lighted, which occurred on March 30, 1892. In reality, it was used to signal and help galleons that used to sail past on their way. Climbing it is really tiring, but it is very worth it once you get there. Anyway, you may choose to hire and ride in one of the vehicles there if you want.

Bangui Windmills

Photo link

The Bangui Windmills are one of the most famous tourist sites in Ilocos Norte because they allow visitors to feel as if they are in another country, such as Switzerland, while still enjoying the tropical air. If you have ever viewed photographs on different social media of people having a good time in Pagudpud, you have definitely noticed these gigantic structures protruding from the backdrop of the scenery. Because they stand 230 feet tall, the windmills are easily recognized. It's not only for show, they are functional as well. They really create a significant quantity of wind energy, which is then used by the community.

Paoay Church

Photo by tourismilocosnorte of flickr.com

For good reason, Saint Augustine Church, also known as Paoay Church, is undoubtedly on everyone's list of sites to see in the northern Philippines, and for good reason. A good example of earthquake baroque architecture may be seen in this building. In 1973, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction of this magnificent Baroque edifice, which was finished in 1710, took almost two decades. It is well-known for the enormous buttresses that line the sides and rear of the Paoay church.

Closing Remarks

That is all. Actually, there are lots of great places to visit in Ilocos Norte, but it seems it takes forever to put them all together.

But anyway, what is it like to live in the Philippines' Ilocos Norte province?

It's as if you've been honored a thousand times. Everyone would feel grateful that even though it is not a perfect place, when in fact, nothing is absolutely perfect, it is still one of the best.