Apao Rolling Hills

Let us roll it out in Abra!

One of the most picturesque travel destinations in Cordillera is the Apao Rolling Hills located in Apao, Tineg in the province of Abra. Apao Rolling Hills casts a view of the mountains like grassy meadows of European hinterlands. Apao Rolling Hills, from its view deck, is a series of mountain ranges surrounding Abra. It gives you a beautiful panoramic view of the province’s rugged terrain.

Such 360 degrees of pure majestic view of the wave-like hills with no large trees but plain grasses and shrubs will captivate you with its serene and relaxing view complemented by its cool mountain breeze. From the viewpoint of Vira, one can gaze on wave-like hills as far as the eyes could see and be mesmerized at the natural wonder opening up before you.

According to the locals, vast forests used to cover these hills. However, just like Kalinga, it stands witness to the historic struggle of the people against corporate aggression. During the Marcos regime, they were heavily logged because of the Cellophil Resource Corporation. Which resulted to the now beautiful wave-like hills.

How to get there?

To reach Apao paradise hills, you have to travel an hour and half from the provincial capital of Abra, which is Bangued. The roads are improving and are concreted nearly all the way to Vira, the new capital of Tineg. Travel to this remote part of Abra is becoming easier.

Before reaching to this place, you will have to cross the town of Tayum and pass the third longest bridge in the entire Philippines, the Don Mariano Marcos Bridge in the town of Dolores.

Going to the Apao Rolling Hills, you need to register at the Municipal Hall and get some advice from local tourism officials

Outdoor Activities at Apao Rolling Hills

· Cycling/Mountain Biking

There are trails scattered through and over Apao Rolling Hills that have been used for centuries by the local villagers who have walked and still walk from their homes and villages to other parts of Abra. Starting from Vira, you can follow them through the scenic hills and see where you end up. Bring your own Mountain Bikes; there are plenty of safe parking near the municipal hall.

· Hiking

For hiking enthusiasts, the Apao Rolling Hills provides some of the best hiking oppurtunities in the country. Trails through them leads you to nearby settlements. For a day hike, you could make your way from Vira to Barangay Apao and back. The hike passes through Apao Rolling Hills down to a river and on to Brgy. Apao. Allow four to five hours for the trek.

· Climbing

Mountain Climbing is another outdoor activity in the Apao Rolling Hills area. From Vira, Mt. Pisusok can easily be climbed in a day if you start early in the morning, or if you prefer a little more adventure, camp near the summit, watch the sunrise and then return to Vira.

Fun Facts

· There are two sides to Apao Rolling Hills. During the rainy season, the hills are various shades of green, which is a vast difference from the dry season where the colors change to brown as the grass that was once green lacks enough moisture for existence.

· Best time for Instagram is during sunset when the mountainsides come alive with a dramatic auburn glow.