The Rugged Trails of Minoyan: A Camping Adventure in Murcia
Camping: the perfect way to flee the chaos of urban life and test your will to live with questionable food choices and uneven terrain. Here in Negros Occidental, camping is more than just an escape—it’s practically a rite of passage for anyone seeking fresh air and existential clarity. Barangay Minoyan in Murcia has become a favorite haunt, with its six campsites offering everything from scenic views to the occasional mud bath.
The Gathering: Provisions, Plans, and Regret
On December 26 at 1 PM, four of us set off to brave the wilderness. The team? Friends from Bago City and Mansilingan, all ready for an adventure with zero preparation. We decided to buy food along the way because why not make things harder for ourselves? Our first pit stop was Lopue’s in Murcia Proper, the town’s go-to grocery store. We grabbed the essentials: cup noodles, corned beef, rice, bird’s nest powder (because soup is apparently mandatory), peanuts, chips, and—naturally—wine. In true amateur fashion, we forgot ice, but luckily the sari-sari stores near the campsites had us covered.
Two Roads Diverged, and We Took the Harder One
The campsites of Minoyan are about 54 minutes or 30.4 km from Bacolod City. Two roads lead there: one that’s short and steep (a.k.a. the Graceland route) and another that’s longer but smoother, passing near Kanlaon National Park. Of course, we picked the Graceland route because it promised more “adventure.” Translation: steep inclines, road construction, and surfaces that could obliterate a car’s suspension. We parked at the “crossing,” where locals and habal-habal drivers gather, and paid P150 per night for parking—a small price for peace of mind.
The Habal-Habal Odyssey
For P150 per person, we hopped onto habal-habal rides, which are equal parts thrilling and life-threatening. Pro tip: don’t double up (two people riding) on the bikes unless you want to give your driver a leg workout or risk sliding into the mud. The road to the campsite is rocky, slippery, and, when it rains, a mud-lover’s dream. At a checkpoint, we were asked to register and leave an ID—a subtle reminder that our survival wasn’t guaranteed (joke intended).
Strawberry Fields and an Unexpected Welcomer
At the base of the campsite, we found a sari-sari store that also had a small strawberry garden and a resident monkey. This charming spot set the tone for the climb ahead, as we passed more strawberry gardens and neat homesteads on our way up. The nearby Cardiac Hill campsite offered a flat grassy area, ideal for those looking for a simpler setup without sacrificing the mountain vibe.
Welcome to Budz Campsite
We arrived at Uncle Budz, a cozy campsite perched above Cardiac Hill. The campsite features a welcoming kubo and a small pool that costs just P30 per person, perfect for a refreshing dip after the climb. The surrounding views were stunning, offering a serene escape from everyday life. Fellow campers and the owner greeted us warmly, adding a sense of community to the experience.
The Kubo: A Humble Yet Refreshing Abode
Our campsite was a simple kubo located just above Budz Campsite, on a small piece of land owned by a friend’s acquaintance. The kubo had a basic kitchen setup and was surrounded by the mountain, with clouds often hovering close by. There was a hose connected to a spring, providing a constant flow of fresh, cold water—practical and convenient. The air was cool and refreshing, adding to the relaxing atmosphere.
The kubo itself was simple but practical. An insulator served as the base of our bedding—a clever feature that made our sleep a bit more comfortable. Though a duyan (hammock) would have been a welcome addition, none were available, leaving us to consider it for next time.
For cooking, we had everything we needed: utensils, a butane stove, and a rock-grill setup complete with a mesh for grilling. A handful of wooden chairs and tables were scattered around, along with a director’s chair that gave a touch of authority to whoever dared sit in it. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was more than enough for the experience we craved.
This little kubo offered more than just a place to rest—it gave us a front-row seat to the raw beauty of nature. The sounds of the creek, the glowing insects, and the crisp mountain air made it a retreat that felt both grounding and refreshing. It’s the kind of place where simplicity meets serenity, reminding you that sometimes, less is truly more.
Dinner Under the Stars
As the sun set, we gathered around to prepare dinner. Grilled pork, steaming noodles, and hearty bird’s nest soup made for a comforting meal under the open sky. The crisp mountain air and the quiet of the surroundings made it all the more memorable. With a glass of wine in hand, we shared stories and laughter, creating moments that would be talked about long after the trip.
Tips for Fellow Campers
- Bring ice and other essentials to avoid last-minute scrambles.
- Choose your route based on your vehicle’s capacity—steep roads aren’t for the faint of heart or low-clearance cars. If you don’t bring a car, hop over a Cebro en route to Mambukal or get a hitch like some young men do.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the climb; the trail can get muddy after rain.
- Embrace the simple joys of camping, from basic meals to starry skies.
Why Minoyan is Worth the Trip
Camping in Minoyan, Murcia, offers more than just an outdoor adventure—it’s a chance to explore beautiful landscapes, bond with friends, and disconnect from the noise of the city. The challenges of the trail are rewarded with breathtaking views and a refreshing sense of accomplishment. For anyone looking to explore Negros Occidental’s natural beauty, Barangay Minoyan is a must-visit destination.