Buenavista is nestled at the foot of Malindig Volcano which rises up to 1,157 meters the highest peak on the island. At its peak, a mossy forest grows and a variety of ferns and wild orchids. In the volcano’s foothills are areas where rare species of birds, deer, boar, wildcats and monkeys survive.
A cove in Barangay Yook is frequented these days by picnickers who care about getting even closer to nature by watching, feeling and listening to the waves as they smash against the rocks. Residents have made improvements in a choice spot by building a gazebo for visitors, one that rests just above the water that could be reached through a bamboo walkway. Marinduque Hot Spring Resort in Barangay Malbog has swimming pools, private enclaves and cottages. Further away in the same village is the Malbog Sulfur Hot Spring frequented by bathers for its therapeutic value and as cure for skin ailments.
The Lourdes Grotto, in Sitio Sapinit, Barangay Bagtingon can be reached through a kilometer inland road from the highway. The Grotto rests in an elevation of around 150 meters so one must climb a cemented trail of some 250 steps.
Panorama of the southwestern portion of Marinduque and the majestic Malindig Volcano is your reward.
Bulusukan Falls in Barangay Bagtingon involves a 40-minute trek through a river that starts from it at the lower slopes of the mountain range that provides a steady supply of mineral spring waters from the uphill timberland zone. It is the largest natural habitat of some 300 endemic species of butterflies.
The luxurious 6-star Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa is, of course, located near the southernmost portion of this town.
Ian Sotto and Elorde delos Santos' class recently held their reunion at the Yook Cove and simply enjoyed every minute of it.
All Yook cove photos here courtesy of Ian Sotto