Nestled in the heart of Nagcarlan Laguna—about 3 to 4 hour drive from my place, lies a hidden gem known to a few lucky wanderers—Lake Yambo. With its serene beauty and tranquil ambiance, it's no wonder that this destination is a cherished spot for locals and visitors who are seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Being in this place reminds me of the quote:
"Scenery without solace is meaningless"
-Mitch Albom, The Five People You Meet in Heaven
It highlights the idea that the true value of natural beauty lies not just in the visual aesthetics but also in the sense of peace, solace, and connection it offers to those who take the time to appreciate it. I'm more than glad that I got to experience it all here in Lake Yambo.
My first visit of this lake was back in May 2019. It was a holiday and our church arranged a retreat for us young professionals. Lake Yambo was our first stop and as we arrived, the first thing that struck me was the stillness of the water. Lake Yambo's calm surface mirrored the surrounding lush greenery, creating a perfect reflection of the natural beauty that enveloped us. We couldn't resist the urge to take a leisurely walk along the lake's shoreline and of course, take a dip.
Our group rented two balsa which allowed us to tour the middle of the lake. The balsa is relatively big as it has a table and two benches that could accommodate 10 to 15 persons to sit. It was an enchanting and adventurous experience, especially that it was my first time riding one.
Taking pictures in this enchanting lake is indeed irresistible, so when our bangkeros took us offshore to a gigantic rock in the middle of the lake we took every moment to savor in its beauty and tried to preserve our collected memory through photography. After our quick photo-op of the gigantic rock, our bangkeros took us to a corner with ample shade from the trees. Here, we had our lunch, and enjoyed each other's company as we dipped in the cool water and use the makeshift swing which allowed us to see a different angle of the lake. Before departing, we also had the chance to appreciate the lake once again from a viewpoint. What a marvelous sight, indeed!
Fast forward to April 2022, and I found myself drawn back to Lake Yambo. This time, I visited the place with a handful of friends only. We all yearned to experience once more the peace and quiet it offered. As I revisited this lake, I couldn't help but notice how the landscape had evolved, subtly yet significantly.
The lush greenery had become even more vibrant, and the atmosphere remained unchanged. The stillness and calmness of the lake that had provided moments of joy and reflection during my previous visit, was still there, inviting me to relive those cherished memories and this time, it is with my close and new found friends.
Surrounded by nature's beauty, we shared laughter, stories, and a deep sense of appreciation for the moment. The swing we used to sit on and enjoy wasn't there anymore, it was replaced by a single rope attached to a tree. It is used to swing you from a platform to the lake and make a drop. We enjoyed sharing laughter as we scream our hearts out while swinging. It's these connections and shared experiences that make such adventures truly memorable, isn't it?
Lake Yambo in Nagcarlan, Laguna, is a place where time seems to slow down, and makes your worries fade away. It's an evidence to the beauty of nature and the importance of taking each moment to appreciate it. Whether you've been there once or twice, like me, or are planning your first visit, you're sure to find a one-of-a-kind sense of peace by the shores and the still waters of Lake Yambo. So, if you're in need of a tranquil escape, I highly recommend adding this hidden gem to your travel list ♥
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