>
By Faith Ijeh
Ondo State is a state in South Western Nigeria. Created in February 1976 from the former Western State. Ondo State borders Ekiti State to the north, Kogi State to the north east, Edo State to the east, Delta State to the south west, Osun State to the north west and Atlantic Ocean to the south.
The state is predominantly occupied by Yorubas who speak various dialects of the Yoruba language. It is nicknamed ‘Sunshine State.’
Ondo is blessed with alluring landscapes with some exciting tourist sites.
There are quite a number of places to visit in the state, but here are some of the places to visit in Ondo
1. Idanre Hills
Idanre Hills, otherwise known as ‘Oke Idanre,’ are one of the most beautiful and awesome landscapes in Ondo State and Nigeria.
These hills are perhaps the most popular travel destination in the sunshine state. The hill has nine wonders which include the great steps.
With 660 steps and five resting points set at least 100 metres apart leads up into the hills; the unreadable signs; the wonderful mat; Agboogun’s Footprint which fits any foot size except those who are considered to be a witch or wizard; the Thunder Water; a mystical dilapidated building; a blackened slate; the Orosun Hill from which the Arun river reputed to have healing power flows from and the Ark of Noah.
2. Igbokoda Waterfront
The Igbokoda waterfront is situated in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
It is one of the longest territorial waters in Nigeria. The waterfront has a fishing terminal which would pick the interest of any tourist or visitor. It also offers activities such as boating, swimming, picnic, boat regatta, diving and much more.
3. Owo museum of Antiques
The Owo museum of antiques is a national museum that has many wood and ivory carvings, brass and bronze works.
The museum has been preserved to serve as a place for visitors to have a taste of historical values of the people of Owo and the neighbouring towns and villages.
4. Smokin Hills Golf Resort
The resort, located in Ilara Mokin was built in 2012 by Chief Michael Ade-Ojo. The greenery at this resort is particularly breathtaking in the morning, against the back drop of smoke that wafts in the air just after dawn.
The golf course has been carefully carved out of 140 acres of surrounding jungle and rolling hills which emit smoke early in the morning, the phenomenon from which the resort drives its name. Anyone who wants to make a getaway from their hectic schedule will definitely call this place a haven.
5. Cave of Ashes
The Cave of Ashes is located in Isarun. It is referred to as the home of the oldest pre-historic man in West Africa as its skeleton was discovered by Professor Thurstan Shaw, an archaeologist from the University of Ibadan.