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Writer's pictureAMJL

Trails & Tales: Banawa Cebu City to Pamutan to Punta Princessa - Hiking the Spartan Way

By AMJL


Hey there, fellow adventurers! Today, I'm going to take you on a journey through the rugged and beautiful Spartan Trail, from Banawa to Pamutan, and all the way to Punta Princessa. Strap on your hiking boots and grab your water bottle, because we are about to embark on a thrilling trek through nature's wonderland.



Our journey started in Banawa, a bustling part of Cebu City in the Philippines. The Spartan Trail may sound tough, but it's not just for hardcore athletes. It's a trail that welcomes hikers of all levels, making it the perfect choice for our weekend getaway.

As we set off, we were greeted by a lush canopy of trees and dirt paths. The path was well-marked, but don't expect a paved highway; it's more like a winding dirt road. But that's what we came for—a slice of the great outdoors.



The Spartan Trail isn't a walk in the park, so be prepared. There will be lots of climbing and crawling, but that's what makes it fun, right? We faced a few steep parts on the way up; it is challenging, but it's totally doable. Plus, the views of Cebu City from up there are worth every step. Yes, we sweated buckets, but we also laughed a lot. However, the trail wasn't just about the views. The sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling turned our hike into a relaxing symphony. We had to stop sometimes just to soak it all in. One of the things that got me mesmerized were the butterflies. I was so astonished to see a group of butterflies with different colors and kinds, but this also made me realize that it's sad that these creatures are so rare in the city. I mean, when was the last time you saw a butterfly?



As we kept going, we stumbled upon little surprises, like refreshing streams and mini waterfalls. When we reached the mini waterfall, we took a break and ate. At first, I was hesitant to join my friends in swimming in the mini waterfalls, but I remembered that this hike is about enjoying the journey, and I got to savor and soak in the moment, so I joined them! It was so refreshing. The water splashing and running down your spine is so therapeutic. It felt like all my stress had gone away. By the way, you need to be extra cautious when stepping on the rocks; they're quite shaky and slippery.


This time, our friend asked us which way we wanted to go. Either we can go back to the trail or we can proceed to Pamutan. The majority of the group voted for Pamutan. The road going to Pamutan is not easy, to the point that my shoes got in bad shape. The sole has come off the shoe's body!

After a few hours of hiking, we finally reached our destination, Pamutan. It's a quaint little village perched on the mountainside. We refueled with some snacks and gave our legs a much-needed rest.



Homestretch to Punta Princessa

Now, if you're up for it, you can keep hiking to Punta Princessa. It's a bit more rugged, but it's worth the extra effort. The trail takes you through a mix of forests and hills, and you'll see a side of Cebu City that's off the beaten path.

So, there you have it—our epic Spartan Trail adventure from Banawa to Pamutan and all the way to Punta Princessa. It's a hike that challenges you, treats you to some fantastic scenery, and introduces you to warm-hearted locals. It's a hike that challenges you physically and rewards you with nature's beauty. There is no need for fancy gear or technical jargon. Just grab your sense of adventure and go.



Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a newbie, the Spartan Trail is waiting for you. So, when are you planning your trip? Get out there, breathe in the fresh air, and make your own unforgettable memories on this scenic Cebu trail. Happy hiking!

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