Mount Batulao

Mount Batulao is an inactive stratovolcano in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines, located in northwest Batangas province along its border with Cavite.It is a dissected andesitic stratovolcano at the northwestern rim of the Taal Caldera which began to form in the late Pliocene period, about 3.4 million years agoThe mountain is a prominent landmark of jagged peaks, rolling to rugged ridges and deep gorges situated just west of the hill station of Tagaytay at the southwestern end of the Tagaytay Ridge. It is well known for its scenery, as well as its retreat centers and resorts located just 85 kilometres (53 mi) south of Manila.The name "Batulao" comes from a contraction of the Tagalog phrase "bato sa ilaw" or "ilaw sa dalawang bato" ("illuminated rocks") in reference to the phenomenon that takes place at the mountain in December when the sun's rays come out from between the mountain's two prominent peaks and light them up.The mountain contains twelve peaks including its two highest peaks for which it was named. The northern side of the mountain is administered as part of Nasugbu while to the east, its foothills extend to the Cavite municipality of Alfonso.Mount Batulao is a popular day hike, with Philippine hiking guide Pinoy Mountaineer rating it with a "4/9" difficulty score.