The Transcentral Highway crosses the central mountains of Cebu, from Cebu City to the town of Balamban. It is known for cool upland air and for the views above Cebu City.
The ride
The website cebu.travel puts Balamban 49 km from Cebu City. We have not found a reliable figure for the length of the highway itself, for its highest point or for the total climbing, so we give none of them here. The road is paved.
We rate the ride hard because it crosses a mountain range. Expect long climbs and long descents. If you ride all the way to Balamban, remember that the way home crosses the mountains again unless you arrange transport.
A sensible first visit is an out-and-back from the Cebu City side. Climb for a set time, enjoy the view, then turn around while you still feel fresh.
Good to know
- We have no sourced advice on the best months for Cebu. Check the local forecast in the days before your ride, and stay home if heavy rain is expected.
- Ask local riders or a Cebu bike shop about road and traffic conditions before you go.
- Start early. Climbing is easier in the cool of the morning.
- The uplands are cooler than the city. Carry a light jacket for the descent.
- Treat it as an open highway with normal traffic. Use lights front and rear, and ride in single file.
- Check your brakes before you leave, and control your speed on the way down.
- Carry two bottles of water, food and cash.
Getting there with a bike
If you are bringing a bike to Cebu by sea, each ferry operator has its own rules and fees. Our guide to taking your bike on trains, ferries and ships lists the ones we could source. Confirm with the operator before you buy a ticket.