Binaliw Spring
A natural spring and source of Bagatayam Falls, with a Lourdes grotto and a local reputation for healing waters.
The overview
About Binaliw Spring
Binaliw Spring is a small natural spring in Barangay Bagatayam that serves as the source of Bagatayam Falls and the main supply for the Sogod Waterworks System. Its name comes from the local word for "divided" or "reversed," referring to the way part of the spring's flow moves downstream while another portion appears to travel toward higher ground, a quirk that gave rise to the site's local lore. A grotto housing an image of Our Lady of Lourdes sits directly above the spring's source, and many visitors come as much for this shrine as for the cold, clear pool itself. Local belief holds that the water carries healing properties, a reputation tied to an old story of a sick child cured after drinking water brought from the spring, and pilgrims and casual visitors alike still collect water or bathe here. The spring is reached by a short uphill walk or habal-habal ride from Bagatayam Falls, making it a natural add-on to a falls visit rather than a separate trip.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- Source spring of Bagatayam Falls
- Our Lady of Lourdes grotto shrine
- Local healing-water legend
- Cold, clear natural pool
- Short uphill walk from the falls
- Feeds the Sogod Waterworks System
- 1 Wear shoes suitable for a short uphill walk and bring a container if you want to take spring water home, as many locals do. Be respectful around the grotto, which is an active devotional site. No entrance fee is charged. Location approximate — confirm on arrival.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City North Bus Terminal, take a Sogod-bound bus (~2.5-3 hours) to Bagatayam Bridge, then hike or take a habal-habal uphill for about 10-15 minutes to reach the spring.
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Entrance Fee
Free
Opening Hours
Daylight hours
Duration
1-2 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November to May).
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