Nestled in the southwestern part of Cebu, Alegria is probably one of the laid-back towns in Cebu. Little did known that this humble town is blessed with big-time attractions from pristine beaches, cold springs, enchanting waterfalls, rich aquatic resources to breathtaking landscapes, scenic mountains, forests and unexplored caves.

Your stay will never be so far from home. People are warm and friendly. It is a place of happiness as a certain Spanish soldier exclaimed, “Que Alegre” after seeing the natives in ecstasy around the Tubod Spring.

Slowly but surely, Alegria has eventually became a niche for relaxation and exploration. Thanks to the aggressive promotion of countryside tourism, now the town accommodates adventure-lovers and those who are longing for a country-life experience.

Alegria is just a paradise waiting to be discovered. So what are you waiting for? Explore and experience living Alegria.

Here are some of the town’s tourist attractions:

Kawayan Festival

Alegria is one of the towns that promptly answered the call of Gov. Gwen Garcia to come up with an appropriate festival. Local officials led by Mayor Raul Guisadio created the Kawayan Festival to further promote the town to the interested visitors.

The festival was launched last December 2, 2006 as the highlight of the town’s fiesta celebration in honor of its patron, St. Francis Xavier. Since then, Kawayan Festival has become one of the most anticipated activities of the year.

The festival is only befitting to the tribute of bamboo, “kawayan” in vernacular, which abounds in the municipality. Bamboos are source of income for Alegrianons because it has been utilized in number of ways like furniture-making such as beds, sala sets and chairs, home decors, accessories and even used to cook rice used its cut-off branch.

With lively beat, striking costumes and signature bamboo dance, the festival portrays the culture, lifestyle and livelihood of the townsfolk. It is celebrated with a parade and display of different locally-made bamboo products.

St. Francis Xavier Church

The church, located just beside the town hall is said to be one of the oldest in Cebu. It was built in 1857 and was dedicated to the town’s patron saint, St. Francis Xavier. Many believed that gold is buried in the church grounds because the town was the last garrison during the Japanese occupation in the country.

Unique and antique images and statues are displayed inside the church and it is showcased in every Suroy-Suroy Sugbo Southern Heritage Trail Package.

Municipal Building

The town cherished the significant things and places that shaped its history and on the lives of the people. Several artifacts excavated from Kambulakan Cave in 1999 are displayed and opened to the public.

The tourism office also has its displays of pictures and images of the town’s possible tourist destinations and of course, bamboo products.

Bantayan Sa Hari

One of the must-see historical landmarks in the town is the “Bantayan Sa Hari” right across the church. It is one of the watchtowers erected during the time of Fr. Bermejo who ordered its construction as part of the defense system against the invasions of Moro pirates. Its purpose is to alert the people when the enemies are perceived from this vantage point and protect the town.

Mt. Lanaya

It is one of the tourist destinations for adventure-lovers, mountaineers, and trekkers. The mountain is part of the Lanaya-Kangbulagsing mountain range and is dotted with hot springs of volcanic origin.

Located few hundred meters south of Poblacion, the mountain is not much of a challenge for experts as it rises only up to 700 meters above the sea level. But one of its trails requires more than average physical and mental conditions.

Aside from its highest point, the Kalo-Kalo Peak, the mountain is noted also for its Black Shama, endangered specie of bird known for its melodious call.

Canlanog Falls

It is one of the fascinating places in the town. The lush greeneries, the crystal clear potable water, the melodies of the birds and the cool breeze will surely calm your troubled senses.

Perfect for picnics and get-togethers for families, friends and comrades, unforgettable and fun memories are guaranteed. It is only 20-minute ride from the main road. Habal-habal, motorized vehicle, can convey passengers to the falls.

Cambais Falls and Kawa-Kawa Falls

One can do side trips and river trekking to the unspoiled waters of Cambais and Kawa-Kawa Falls. They’re just few of the numerous water systems and falls around the mountains of Alegria. Both are located in Valencia.

Canlaob Spring

This unexplored spring in Barangay Compostela will surely entice its visitors for a dip with its cold and clear waters. Real tranquility lies in this lush green forest, just a few minutes away from Canlanog Falls. Caves here are rich with stalactites and stalagmites. So make Canlaob Spring part of your itinerary when you’re in Alegria.

Tubod Spring

This is one of the most important attractions of the town because of its historical importance. The name Alegria originated from the very spot where Spanish soldiers were amazed by its cool and clear waters and the joy of the residents and shouted “que alegre”. Thus came forth the name “Alegria”. It is located in Sitio Sta. Rosa at Barangay Poblacion.

Salay Cave and Kantayong Cave

Caving is one of the top activities in promoting the town’s tourism. Both are DENR-accredited, meaning these places are safe for the tourists to explore and experience. Salay Cave was featured in Planet Philippines, a documentary hosted by Richard Gutierrez. Local caving groups can organized a trip to these caves.

Libo Hills

Located in Barangay Lepanto is the Little Baguio of Alegria because it is known for its cold climate, pine trees and vegetations in the hills.

Dolphin Watching

One can also catch a glimpse of playful dolphins frolicking in the surface along the Tañon Strait.