For clarity, Little Switzerland in Manipis is always believed to be an imitation of Switzerland, but despite its name copying the country Switzerland, it is officially explained to tourist that it has became known for its landscape that has similar features to European landscapes rather than the Switzerland itself. All nature trails and spots I have went or passedby are all relaxing and peaceful but this Little Switzerland is a bit different , as it is so natural and pure, no expensive accomodations and trails, buildings or amenities, and some touch of commercializaion to promote the destination. It is raw, natural in its context and all features are untouched by modernization. Imagine you can visit a place that have touched the very core of human nature and felt the footsteps of nature enthusiadts without getting disturbed of unnecessary development and tourism. Just pure, just breathing, but still it opens to welcome people like you that are respectable to nature and has love for it. It is often visited by individuals passionate to nature, enthusiastic hikers, and intrigued travelers looking for a less noisy and more reflective destination in an island.
Visitors usually come here for simple and meaningful outdoor activities. Camping is one of the most popular, where travelers bring their own tents and spend the night surrounded by nature. Biking and motorcycle rides are also common because the uphill roads provide both challenge and scenic views. Hiking and walking around the area allow visitors to explore the grasslands and enjoy the fresh air. Photography is another highlight,just like what we did, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape becomes more dramatic and intense. Some visitors also visit to simply just relax, reflect, or disconnect from responsibilities and pressures due to the little to no signal in the area, allowing you to focus solely on the nature.
When it comes to history, Little Switzerland itself doesn't have a background on it. But since it is located in Manipis, Cebu, it is connected to something wonderful about the history of Manipis. This mountain road was created during World War II to be a safe route to the highlands of Cebu. Years passed and it is now popular for its steep and exciting paths, bordered of amazing mountain views as you travel and hike. Little Switzerland was not a historical name but a modern identity created by people who figured out how it is of resemblance with Switzerland. I want to know more of Manipis history but soon for sure if I visit there again, I can have plenty of its histories.
The location of Little Switzerland is specifically in Sitio Campinsa, Barangay Manipis, Campo 6, Talisay City, Cebu. Assume you are at the North Bus Terminal in Cebu City, where most tourists start their trip towards the north. You can ride a jeepney going to Takisay City and stop mesr Lawaan. From there, you can hire a habal-habal or motorcycle ride going up to Campinsa which fortunately many drivers in habal-habal knows. I recommend traveling at daytime to ensure safety since the roads there are steep and dangerous. If you got there, welcome, you just arrived home.