Every place has a story. Many of the natural tourist destinations in our country has a story to tell, a tale of its origins, a history of how it came to be. And all of them adds to the mystique and charm of each place.
After exploring Sampalok lake , we head to the twin crater lakes of Pandin and Yambo in Brgy San Lorenzo, San Pablo Laguna. It was told that these two lakes were named after two lovers. According to the legend, a beautiful woman named Pandin was cursed not to step on the earth, otherwise, something terrible would befall her. Yambo, her ardent lover, did not know about the curse and had made her step on earth, after which there was a terrible noise followed by the cracking grumble of the earth and a heavy downpour eventually converted the area into twin lakes separated from each other by a bare strip of land. (*source – Wikipedia)
If Sampalok lake is not really inviting for a swim, Pandin, which is said to be the most pristine among the Seven lakes, is the complete opposite.
We trekked for a few minutes to get to lake Pandin, you will not miss the jump off since there’s a huge billboard along the road.
The trek is fairly easy and you won’t get lost. We were told by an old man to just follow the path along the fence and we’ll get there just fine.
You have an option to rent a floating cottage with food included for around 360/head, or just rent a cottage for 180/each for two hours. We did the latter since we already had our lunch at lake Sampalok.
With a depth of 63 meters, the lake terrified me a bit. It does look like those from the movies, where monsters will pull you down the bottom. But of course, it was just all my active imagination. The lake is no way a home to monsters. It is a home to nice locals, and beautiful views.
We were only allowed to jump into the water when we reached the groto. Visitors are only allowed into the water when they are wearing life vests. Understandably because the waters are way too deep even if one knows how to swim.
The water was so clean and refreshing. The water temperature was changing while we were swimming.
After a while, we got off the raft and trekked up the strip of land separating Pandin from Yambo. It was a steep climb but the view at the top is worth the huffing and heaving.
It was very fun day. It was my first time in swimming on a lake. I highly recommend visiting these lakes as it offers not just swimming but trekking as well! To the adventure seekers, to those who want serenity,relaxation and peace for a day, this is the place to be.
Cheers to the good life,
Zai.
Zai The Restless 