It is a common sight to see cyclists, either on road bikes, racer bikes or mountain bikes pushing pedals along the road to Lucban, a town in Quezon Province in the Philippines, famous for its Pahiyas festival. Why not? The cool climate is conducive to this form of leisurely activity. An increase in the number of these bikers or cyclists is observed during summer, particularly during the weeks near the Pahiyas festival. The Pahiyas festival is held during the week preceding May 15.
The town of Lucban lies along the foot of the picturesque and mystic Mt. Banahaw. Bikers (not to be confused with motorcycle riders who also call themselves bikers) enjoy a lung-bursting climb which is a good cardiovascular exercise. There is a saying that after the uphill, there is a downhill ride. The downhill ride is the reward which they enjoy when going out of Lucban.
But the real reward that enthusiasts get pleasure from biking to Lucban is to enjoy the sights such as the newly built vacation homes seen along the road, picture-perfect with Mt. Banahaw in the background. One can’t help but stop for rest and admire the view afforded by Lukban Highlands, one of the finest residential subdivisions in Quezon province.
While there are many other subdivisions in this Quezon town, Lukban Highlands attracts the attention of many passers-by. The homes do not look like built for day to day living but are made as vacation homes, which are built to enjoy the pleasures of life. But then, who will prevent you to live day to day in one of these vacation homes and enjoy life, day after day, literally.
But what is the advantage of coming to Lucban on a bicycle, particularly during the Pahiyas festival? Simple! Bicycle riders do not face the problems that car riders or even motorcycle riders face: traffic and parking. During the Pahiyas festival, Lucban is so crowded that everyone literally must get off their ride and take a walk. Visitors have to park as far as the area of Kamay ni Hesus outside the town. But that would not happen to a cyclist who can lift and carry his or her bike over obstructions (like parked cars) then ride again leisurely.