The Primitive and Mysterious Beauty of San Dionisio

a view of San Dionisio plaza with the imposing Pan de Azucar of Concepcion at the backdrop, photo by Bombette G. Marin

The fifth district in the northern part of Iloilo is one of the many wonderful scenic drives in province. Its coastline hosts various beautiful beaches where the sun is strong and waters are warm. Although it is not as developed as Boracay in Aklan, thus luxurious water sports might be a bit hard to find in some places, but the beaches here are still mostly unspoiled and naturally beautiful. 

The municipality of San Dionisio is an ideal get-away from the hustle and bustle of Iloilo City.  Situated 112 kilometers far north from the city, it offers a different kind of adventure. It offers a panoramic site which makes it an interesting place to visit. Viewed from its Municipal Hall, the town is a combination of beauty and tranquility as it is set against a backdrop of blue seas, clear skies and lush landscapes.

the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association with our newly-found friend from the United Kingdom, Mr. Robert Giddings, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Not like its neighboring Concepcion, Estancia and Carles, San Dionisio was for some time partly hidden from the gaze of local and foreign tourists. Despite increased interest from visitors, San Dionisio still remains as the undiscovered gem of Iloilo. The town, 112 kilometers from the city is composed of 29 barangays with a population of a little over 32,000 exudes a delightful, almost other-worldly charm reminding one of a simpler, easier time.

There is much to be discovered throughout this area. In recent years, inland resorts have been invested. Visitors can lay back enjoy the excellent scenery, food and service without any worries.

the main entrance of Gazebo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

GAZEBO creates a unique atmosphere of total detachment and relaxation. The exclusive resort was born in 1999. Measuring around 9,000 square meters from the main gate, it is nestled on the hill of Bitac Cove which allows guests to enjoy the peace of area at the same time the exclusive atmosphere that the location suggests. 

Lakdayan Island fronting Gazebo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Framed by glass walls, it is overlooking the scenic Lakdayan Island. This cozy retreat is simply designed and accented with natural furnishings with four very comfortable and well-equipped air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate travelers of all types. 

the veranda of Gazebo's log house, photo by Bombette G. Marin

It features facilities such as kitchen where guests can cook their own meals, meditation area and a veranda from its log house nearby. Touches of Filipino and Japanese cultures make up the distinct ambience and atmosphere in the resort. The resort is owned and managed by Mrs. Susan Gonzales-Franje.

a picturesque view of Pan de Azucar, Concepcion at the beach of Shelter Point, photo by Bombette G. Marin

SHELTER POINT BEACH RESORT in Barangay Sua is this town’s leading beach break destination where one can experience pleasant distractions, whether you are holidaying as a family, a couple, a group or alone. The resort is in a secluded beach that put you in close proximity to the sea with mountain views from the town of Concepcion and Carles. At a very minimal rate the resort has four (4) small air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate five persons for a fee of P700.00 per room; two big air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate a group of 20 persons for a fee of P1,000,00 per room; and a big fan room that can accommodate 15 persons for a fee of P800.00. For more information, please contact, Mrs. Isaly Jalandoni-Muyco at 09199292990.

photo by Bombette G. Marin

The newly-built SEALIPS PENSION HOUSE in Barangay Poblacion is a total surprise with its colorful living accommodations name after Japanese fishes. It offers two (2) air-conditioned rooms with two single beds at P700.00 per room and four (4) fan rooms with two single beds at P400.00 per room. It also has a viewing deck. It is situated beside Unifish Inc. Processing Plant that exports marine products such fish, shellfish, shrimps and oysters to Japan. Its restaurant specializes in sizzling seafood such as squid and scallops. For more information, please contact, Mr. Eduard Samonte-Designated Municipal Tourism Officer at 09082546186.

Though calm and quiet, San Dionisio is slowly becoming one of Iloilo’s holidaying destinations with options for fun and excitement. So, if you are looking for an exotic faraway retreat, why not experience San Dionisio?

To get to the town, one can take a van at the Northern Central Iloilo Transport Terminal, Inc. in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact, Mr. Eduard Samonte-Designated Municipal Tourism Officer at 09082546186.