After months of back-to-back toxic shifts and pure exhaustion, I knew I needed something:
Fresh air. Peace. Mountains. Quiet.
So when I finally got a double off, I decided it was time to check something off my bucket list—
Trekking to the highest peak in Cebu: Osmeña Peak.

Located in Barangay Mantalungon, known as Cebu’s vegetable basket, Osmeña Peak rises over 1,000 meters above sea level. It was named after the Osmeña family, one of Cebu’s most influential political clans.

Despite its altitude, the peak has become a beloved destination—offering a 360-degree view of rolling hills, occasional seas of clouds, and much-needed stillness.

With barely any sense of direction, my cousins, friends, and I hired a local guide.
We arrived while it was still dark and foggy—thankfully, our flashlights lit the rocky path ahead.
After a 20–30 minute trek, we reached the campsite. It was quiet. Cold. Humbling.

The Journey:

4/21/2018   Arrival.

Since we don’t have any sense of direction in going up to the rocky mountains, we hired a tour guide.  It was still dark and a little bit foggy along our way. The good thing was we had our flashlights with us that lighted our way. The trekking took about 20-30 minutes before we finally reached the camping area.

We woke up at 4:30 AM, hoping to catch the sunrise…
Instead, we were gifted with a thick sea of clouds, curling like waves around the mountain tops.
It was nothing short of magic.

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Bathroom breaks:
There are no toilets. No showers. Just you and Mother Nature.
Bring tissue, wet wipes, and a sense of humor.

Activities at the peak:
Not much, really—unless you count deep conversations under the stars, juice in hand, and laughter echoing through the cool mountain air.

The locals:
Kind-hearted and helpful. Some kids might visit your camp, and yes—there’s an early morning egg vendor!

Safety tip:
It may feel safe, but still watch over your belongings. Better to be safe than sorry.

And the hiking continues….

That morning, as I stood on the peak, I felt my lungs expand—
with fresh air,
with peace,
with perspective.

I love places that make me feel small—
because somehow, my problems shrink too.

This was more than just a break.
It was a reminder that even nurses—those tough on the outside, soft on the inside—need sanctuaries to recharge and simply be.

As the sun dipped behind the hills, I felt it:
A stillness that whispered,
“You can rest now.”

Because rest is not a reward—
It’s part of survival.

Being able to relax is also essential for nurses, and it should be done unfailingly for a more refreshing start of the shift and a real challenge that could still bring out fun and enjoyment for one of the busiest people in the world. 

The Sunset

Tent Fee – ₱50 per tent

Bus ride (South Bus Terminal to Dalaguete) – ₱135

Habal-habal (to Osmeña Peak foot) – ₱100/pax

Registration Fee – ₱30/pax

Sunblock – Don’t underestimate Cebu sun

Water – At least 1L per person

Snacks – Crackers, fruit, peanuts

Tent + sleeping bag – It gets cold and rocky

Cooking set + butane – For warm meals

Flashlight/lamp – Pitch dark after sunset

Clothes – Sneakers, sweater, extra slippers

Hygiene basics – Wet wipes, tissues, alcohol

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🏞️ Going Back Home…

Leaving Osmeña Peak, I felt lighter.
Not just because the trail was downhill—but because my soul had taken a deep breath.

To my fellow nurses:
Don’t forget to find your peak.
Your pause.
Your place where you remember—you’re not just a nurse.
You’re a human, too.

With peace,
Anj ❤