Malvar Travel Guide

Explore Malvar, a beautiful town located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and where to stay in Malvar.


Introduction to Malvar

Malvar is a small town located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. This charming little town is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history. Despite its size, Malvar offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions that make it a great place to visit.

List of Places to Visit in Malvar

Malvar is full of must-visit places that bring the town’s rich history and beautiful sights to life. Here are some of the top places to visit when in Malvar:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Malvar Museum and Library - This museum and library is dedicated to the life and legacy of General Miguel Malvar, a national hero who fought for the Philippines’ independence from Spanish colonization.
  • Malvar Shrine - This shrine is dedicated to General Miguel Malvar and is the site of his final resting place. It stands as a tribute to his patriotism and contribution to Philippine history.

Natural Attractions of Malvar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Maculot - This mountain is a popular destination for hikers and adventure-seekers alike. The trail rewards visitors with panoramic views of the town and Taal Lake.
  • Malvar Lake - This tranquil lake is home to many varieties of fish and bird species that visitors can enjoy watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malvar

Malvar’s scenic beauty is best enjoyed through its well-established hiking and biking routes. Here are some popular routes:

  • Mount Maculot Hike - This hike is a popular destination for hikers and adventure-seekers alike. The trail rewards visitors with panoramic views of the town and Taal Lake.
  • Malvar Bike Loop - This scenic route circles the town of Malvar, offering stunning views of the town’s surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Malvar: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are many other things to do in Malvar. Here are some popular activities and tours:

  • Horseback Riding - Malvar offers horseback riding tours for visitors who want to explore the town’s scenic beauty in a unique way.
  • Malvar Food Tour - This tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through the town, giving them the chance to try some of the region’s most famous dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Malvar

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Malvar:

Day Activity
1 Visit Malvar Museum and Library, Malvar Shrine
2 Hike Mount Maculot
3 Go on a horseback riding tour
4 Explore Malvar Lake
5 Take the Malvar Food Tour
6 Go biking on the Malvar Bike Loop
7 Day trip to Batangas City or Taal Heritage Town

Food and Drink Scene of Malvar

Malvar offers a variety of delicious dishes and beverages that visitors should definitely try when visiting. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Adobo - This is a classic Filipino dish that is enjoyed all over the country. It is made with meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
  • Buko Pie - This sweet pie is made with young coconut meat and is a popular dessert in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee - The town is home to many coffee farms, so visitors should definitely try the local coffee.
  • Lambanog - This is a traditional Filipino liquor made from coconut sap. It has a strong taste and is usually enjoyed in small quantities.

Where to Stay in Malvar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Malvar offers visitors a variety of options for accommodations. Here are some popular choices:

  • Villa Teresita Resort - This resort offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
  • Casa Cecilia - This guesthouse offers visitors comfortable rooms and a warm homey feel.
  • Doc Willie’s Cottage - This budget accommodation offers visitors basic rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to Buy in Malvar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Malvar should definitely bring home some of the town’s local products as souvenirs. Here are some popular items:

  • Kapeng Barako - This local coffee is famous for its strong taste and is a popular souvenir.
  • Handwoven Products - Malvar is known for its beautiful handwoven baskets and bags that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Malvar

The people of Malvar are friendly and welcoming. Visitors should be respectful of the town’s culture and customs when visiting.

Best Time to Visit Malvar

The best time to visit Malvar is between November and April. The weather is cooler and drier during this time, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malvar

Do:

  • Respect the town’s culture and customs.
  • Explore Malvar’s natural beauty.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the town’s culture and customs.
  • Litter or damage the town’s natural beauty.
  • Ignore the local dishes and beverages.

Safety and Health

Safety in Malvar

Malvar is a safe town, but precautions should still be taken when travelling. Visitors should not leave their belongings unattended and should stay aware of their surroundings.

Health in Malvar

Visitors should be up to date on their routine vaccinations before travelling to Malvar. It is also recommended that visitors take anti-malaria medication if travelling to rural areas near Malvar.

Getting to Malvar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Malvar is easily accessible from Manila. Here are some transportation options for getting to Malvar:

  • By Bus - Visitors can take a bus from Manila to Batangas City and from there catch a jeepney to Malvar.
  • By Car - Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi from Manila to Malvar.

Airports Near Malvar

  • Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Approximately 60 kilometers from Malvar.

Bus Stations Near Malvar

  • Jam Liner Bus Terminal - Located in Buendia, Pasay City.
  • JAC Liner Bus Terminal - Located in Buendia, Pasay City.

Other Options

  • Taxi - Visitors can take a taxi from Manila to Malvar for a more comfortable and convenient ride.

How to Get Around in Malvar

Visitors to Malvar can get around by jeepney or tricycle, which are both affordable and convenient options.

Where to Go Next from Malvar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some popular nearby destinations that visitors can explore after leaving Malvar:

  • Batangas City - The capital of the province of Batangas, it is known for its beaches and historical sites.
  • Taal Heritage Town - A beautifully preserved Spanish colonial town that is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Malvar is a charming little town that offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, natural beauty, or outdoor activities, Malvar has something for everyone. Explore the best of Calabarzon with a visit to Malvar.