As the sun began to rise, we eagerly got up at 4 am, knowing we had a challenging journey ahead. Our tour guide wished us well and bid us farewell as we embarked on our traverse up and down the path. Backtracking from our route to Bontoc the previous day, we savored the final opportunity to soak in the stunning scenic views of Sadanga.
It was a serene and beautiful morning, and we refueled with a satisfying breakfast at a local restaurant. Streams of water surrounded us, providing the perfect chance to clean our bikes that had endured the rigors of long rides.
With fresh legs and a vibrant morning atmosphere, the gradual climb to Bontoc felt surprisingly manageable. We took pleasure in the mesmerizing cliffs and landscapes that unfolded before us.
The roads, adorned with rock walls, reminded me of the majestic mountain routes of the Himalayas, inspiring me to capture the breathtaking scenery with my camera. I couldn't help but ponder why the natural wonders of our own country often go unnoticed, while many dream of exploring far-off lands.
Around 9 am, we arrived in Bontoc and immediately set our sights on Sagada. For Edwin, it was his first time reaching Sagada on a bicycle, while Jay and I had previously completed the Sagada loop ride.
After enjoying a delicious lunch not far from Sagada, we braced ourselves for another challenging stretch—a 30-kilometer climb from Sabangan to Sinto. Such climbs are typical in the Mountain Province, often demanding three or more hours to conquer. Therefore, we planned ahead, ensuring we had backup options in case of unforeseen circumstances.
As we ascended, the temperature fluctuated, alternating between mild cold and sudden drops as we navigated the roads of Bauko. We decided to take a well-deserved coffee break, searching for a picturesque spot to savor our hot beverages.
Our primary goal for the day was to secure accommodations as close as possible to Kibungan, a part of our route that presented unique challenges due to its limited familiarity. We were aware that it could be the toughest leg of our journey. While most motorists in the Mountain Province opt for the Old Highest Point Road in Atok, Benguet, to reach Sagada, we chose an alternative route based on the advice of a local friend, who warned us about the scarcity of lodging options and communication difficulties.
By 5 pm, we arrived in Sinto, known as one of the coldest towns in the province. With the sunset approaching, Jay and I were well aware of the upcoming town of Buguias, a descent that would serve as our ideal overnight stop.
Buguias is renowned for its cool temperatures, and as we descended, a thick fog rolled in, impairing our visibility.
Yearning for warmth and shelter, I bundled up, but even my gloves struggled against the biting cold. Thankfully, we found solace in a restaurant, seeking refuge and ordering steaming hot soup for dinner—a comforting relief from the chilly outdoors.
The contrast between the freezing temperatures outside and the cozy ambiance inside was striking. Our initial inquiries about lodging proved costly, prompting us to search for more affordable options further along our route. Fortunately, luck was on our side, and we stumbled upon accommodations that fit our budget. Due to the icy water, we reluctantly postponed our shower until the morning, as we eagerly anticipated a refreshing start to the next day's adventure.
