With rock-hewn landscapes, charming lighthouses, well-preserved culture and a crime rate of zero, the Batanes group of islands in the Philippines is a universe apart.

It may be the country’s smallest province, but its wildly breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and seascapes will leave you feeling both insignificant and profoundly connected to the world.

The islands are the last places where traditional stone houses can still be found. Photo: Pexels

Batanes by bike

Batanes comprises three main inhabited islands: Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat (as well as smaller uninhabited isles). Unlike in the bustling cities, time flows slowly here. There’s no need to rush and you’ll be content to linger.

As public transport is limited, van or tricycle tours offer the most convenience – but travellers who enjoy biking can discover sights for themselves. Every bend in the well-paved roads that hug the coast leads to otherworldly landscapes of grazing lands and endless blue waters, so it’s best to soak in the natural splendour as slowly as possible.

Rent a bike as soon as you land in the capital, Basco. Head first on a short cycle to Basco Lighthouse in Naidi Hills, to marvel at the views of Mount Iraya, then ride on to hop around the rocky shoreline of Chadpidan Boulder Beach.

Pack up some lunch and plenty of water to spend another day looping the roads around north and south Batan. You’ll visit lighthouses, churches, cute fishing villages, beaches and view-decks spread around Basco, Ivana, Uyugan and Mahatao.

Consider bringing bikes on the faluwa (traditional boat) to explore Sabtang Island, seeking out stone houses built by the Indigenous Ivatan people (designed to withstand the harsh elements) and remote fishing villages on half-day trips or overnight stays.

Time passes slowly on the Batanes islands. Photo: Unsplash

Take in a deliciously slow pace of island life

The Batanes Protected Landscapes and Seascapes are on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List for their unique natural features, from wave-cut cliffs to untouched white-sand beaches.

This is also the only part of the Philippines where traditional stone houses still stand. The culture of the Ivatan people, who have resided in the Batanes for thousands of years, is remarkably well-preserved due to the islands’ isolation from the rest of the country.

Biking around the Batanes may not be the longest in terms of miles, but the journey getting here, the remoteness and the untamed beauty will leave an indelible mark that lasts far beyond your stay.