Looking for a mix of adventure and good food in Batangas? We spent our Saturday exploring Monte Maria, walking on a glass bridge, devouring juicy burgers, and capping it off with authentic Filipino flavors at Lipa Grill.

Disclaimer: All views expressed on this blog are my own based on my own experiences and do not represent of any entity with which I have been, are now or will be affiliated

January 23, 2026
Batangas, Philippines

December 27, 2025 (Saturday)
Monte Maria, Batangas Glass Walk

You can view my Vlog here

Let’s get real: there isn’t much left to do in Batangas. But that didn’t stop us from trying.

It was Saturday, December 27, 2025, and we were itching for a mini-adventure. After some debating (mostly me convincing everyone it’d be fun), we decided on Monte Maria Shrine, home to Asia’s largest Mama Mary statue, and their much-talked-about glass walk. Two hours later, we arrived… and immediately realized why it’s better to come on a weekday. Crowds. Everywhere. Weekend holiday crowds. Everyone else apparently had the same bright idea as us.

The glass walk itself? Meh. Sure, it’s a glass bridge you walk on, but it’s hot, crowded, and not exactly heart-stopping unless you’re terrified of heights. PHP300 gets you access, but you’ll also pay PHP50 for parking and PHP5 for the restroom. Snacks are available at small stores nearby. I treated myself to a PHP30 corn ice cream because if you’re going to bake in the sun for “adventure,” at least do it with sugar. Protective shoe covers are provided, umbrellas are banned once you step on the glass, and sunscreen is not optional.

After surviving the sun and mild disappointment, hunger hit hard. Nearby cafeterias were a nightmare—packed, slow, and chaotic. We wisely abandoned the area and drove straight to SM Batangas City for lunch at Hungry Hippo, my personal burger haven. My burger meal with fries was everything I needed: juicy, comforting, and so good it made me forget two hours of driving and a glass bridge that really wasn’t worth all the hype. Full and happy, we took a quick detour to Kultura to pick up souvenirs for Yves and his AFAM fiancé.

By the time we were done, it was late afternoon, and the day was far from over. Dinner awaited at Lipa Grill in Padre Garcia. This spot is everything you hope for in Filipino comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and affordable. The original branch still has that warm, family-style charm, even after expanding elsewhere. We dug in, sharing dishes, laughing about the morning’s “adventure,” and slowly realizing that sometimes the best parts of travel aren’t the touristy attractions—they’re the food, the laughs, and the memories made along the way.

So, what did Batangas teach us? First, Monte Maria is… fine. If you want Instagram photos with a giant statue, go ahead. But don’t expect jaw-dropping thrills from the glass walk, it’s more of a “we survived and it’s hot” kind of moment. Second, if there’s one thing left to do in Batangas, it’s eat. Burgers that hit the spot, Filipino dishes that fill your soul, and desserts that justify questionable excursions are where it’s at. And third, sometimes the “adventure” isn’t about discovering hidden gems, it’s about discovering the best places to eat, the funniest moments, and the people you’re with.

By the end of the day, we were tired, sunburned, and happily stuffed. Batangas may not be overflowing with attractions, but with the right stops and a sense of humor it can still deliver a fun, satisfying day trip. Just remember: sunscreen, patience, and a hungry stomach are your best travel companions.

Love,
Maria