A week before flying back to work, my family visited one of Mindanao’s most stunning mountain spots — the Hoyohoy View Deck, also called The Belvedere, in Tangub City. The drive alone was unforgettable. From the city proper, it’s a beautiful 16-kilometer ascent to nearly 1,000 meters above sea level, with winding roads and endless greens. Honestly, it’s one of the most scenic drives I’ve ever had.
Even before reaching Hoyohoy, I was already imagining myself owning a small lot up there — just enough for a simple rest house where I can unwind, breathe cool mountain air, and escape the 29–33°C heat back home across the Panguil Bay Bridge. Unlike at home where the aircon needs to be on to stay comfortable (which means a higher electric bill 😅), up in Hoyohoy, the breeze is consistently cool and refreshing even at noon. With panoramic view of the Panguil Bay and peaceful surrounding, I would say, spending a day in Hoyohoy would truly be a living the dream.
A Quick Throwback to 2014
My last visit to Hoyohoy was back in 2014 when we tried the zipline at the Hoyohoy Highland Stone Chapel Adventure Park. That place used to be popular for prenup shoots because of its charming stone chapel. During this recent trip, I accidentally turned right instead of left and ended up there again—only to find the entrance closed and the area looking outdated. I’m not sure if the zipline still operates or if the park is still maintained, but from the gate and parking spot, it seemed no longer active.
Anyway, that was just a side trip. The star of this visit is definitely The Belvedere.
Arriving The Belvedere
Once you take the correct road, you’ll be greeted by a large entrance archway where the ₱200 entrance fee is collected per visitor. After that, it’s less than a kilometer of uphill driving—and trust me, this part is very Instagrammable. If someone’s with you, let them take videos while you drive. The greens, and the mountain curves make every second picturesque.
As you reach the Belvedere area, the feeling is immediate: you’re above the clouds. From this point, the sweeping panorama opens up: rolling hills, clouds drifting below you, and Tangub City far in the distance. “Stunning” and “breathtaking” don’t even begin to describe it.
1. The First View Deck (Smaller Building)
This one is on the left as you drive up. It has a parking area and offers a peaceful vantage point with fewer people around. Great spot if you want quieter moments or photos without the crowd.
2. The Main Belvedere Building
Just about 100 meters farther is the main structure. Here you’ll find:
• A café offering snacks, drinks, and an indoor dining area (But outdoor tables are definitely better—snacks with a view hits differently! 😍). Right next to the café is the building’s open air viewing deck furnished with woven outdoor seats and tables. This spot faces Panguil Bay directly and we spent the most time here taking group photos because the view and seating were perfect.
• A souvenir shop for mementos
• A driftwood sculpture at the atrium titled “The Raging Horse”
This impressive piece is crafted by Ozamiznon artist Zachary Guangco Alcoseba.
If you’re adventurous or just want even better views, the Belvedere has three more viewing decks, each one higher than the last.
Be prepared though, each deck requires climbing steep concrete stairs. I tried counting the steps but lost track halfway. Rough estimate? Around 450 steps to reach the topmost deck. But the effort is worth it. The higher you go, the more the clouds surround you, and the more magical the horizon becomes.
1. First Viewing Deck – The Circular Plaza Deck
A wide circular plaza with geometric floor patterns. Benches are placed along the edges, and the spot gives you a clear look at the Main Belvedere Building and the view of Panguil Bay.
2. Second Viewing Deck – The Rotunda Deck
Marked by a white rotunda with a circular roof. It’s open, flat, and works as a resting point before the final climb. Benches are available for those who want to pause.
3. Topmost Viewing Deck – The Giant Chessboard Deck
The highest deck features a giant outdoor chessboard with large pieces. There’s seating nearby, and this spot gives the widest view of the mountains, sky, and clouds.
Here are some practical tips if you’re planning a trip to Hoyohoy View Deck:
✔ Best Time to Visit
• Early morning for sea of clouds and sunrise
• Late afternoon for golden hour and cooler breeze
•Midday is fine too (it’s still cool), but lighting for photos is harsh.
✔ Bring a Jacket
The breeze can get chilly, especially if it suddenly becomes foggy.
✔ Prepare for Walking
Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb all the viewing decks.
✔ Parking
Plenty available, but weekends can get crowded.
✔ For Families
The place is kid-friendly as long as you guide them on the stairs.
✔ Drone Use
Check local rules — some areas may restrict drone flights due to elevation and wind.
✔ Be Patient with the Fog
Hoyohoy is known for sudden fog that hides the view, but it usually clears after a few minutes. Sometimes, the wait makes the reveal more dramatic.
Hoyohoy View Deck or The Belvedere is a place that reminds you how beautiful Mindanao truly is. Whether you’re going for the stunning views, the cool climate, the scenic drive, or simply to savor the peace above the clouds, Hoyohoy is absolutely worth the trip.
And for me and my family, it was the perfect breath of fresh air before returning to work—literally and figuratively.
In the end, our visit to Hoyohoy View Deck was exactly what I needed before I headed back to work — a quiet day surrounded by cool air, open views, and quality time with my family. It’s the kind of place that reminds you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the moments that matter. If you’re looking for a quick escape that’s easy, refreshing, and worth every step, Hoyohoy is definitely one to add to your list.
Seafarer and Family Man
I'm Dexter— a seafarer by profession, a traveler by passion, and a homebody by choice.
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