ONE would not expect a hidden treasure in the middle of sugarcane and banana plantations in the northern town of Medellin.
Known as Cebu's sugarcane bowl, the town of Medellin now has a new tag on the map for tourists to explore -- the manmade Bamboo Forest.
Photo by Mildred Galarpe
The 2.3-hectare property owned by Jose Mari Miranda opened in August 2020 when Cebu's quarantine status was downgraded to modified general community quarantine.
But the manmade forest has existed six years ago. It was only in August 2020 when it was opened to tourists. It became a hit for local tourists in November 2020.
On Valentine’s Day, tourists visiting the manmade forest reached 8,500, according to the caretakers.
Photo by Sugbo News
Photo by Sugbo News
Governor Gwendolyn Garcia witnessed the ceremonial launching of the Medellin Bamboo Forest on February 25, 2021.
Miranda planted three varieties of bamboo to protect the adjacent banana and sugarcane plantation from the nearby Hagnaya Bay.
Photo by Mildred Galarpe
The manmade forest is divided into seven rows at 300 meters each row. Each row has its theme to showcase. One has an old tractor on display. The tractor was used to be one of the machinery in the neighboring sugarcane plantation.
Photos by Mildred Galarpe
The physical beauty of the forest is just one of the treats, but the peaceful and calming sound from the rustling of the leaves and creaking of the swaying stalks is a natural bliss.
The manmade forest was likened to the Sagano Bamboo Forest or Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan. Standing amid the towering bamboo forest is like being in another world, especially with its meditative natural noise.
When the wind passes the stalk bends and creaks, the leaves rustle while trunks knock together creating a meditative sound.
Photo by Mildred Galarpe
Editors Note: Do you have road trips to share? Just send your pictures and a description of the place, how to get there, the amenities and fees at sunstarcebusocmed@gmail.com. Now hit the road and explore what is on the horizon.