Adventure Island Jamaica Magazine 2019 - Volume 4

2019 | VOL. 4

Download at www.adventureislandmag.com

PELLEW MARTHA BRAE ISLAND PORTLAND

RIVER RAFTING

TRELAWNY

BLUE HOLE ST. MARY

MEET & GREET AIRPORT TRANSFERS TOURS & EXCURSIONS

SPECIAL EVENTS

Jamaica !

Unforgettable

Dunn’s River Falls

CATAMARAN CRUISE

Black River Safari

Love You’ll

where we take you!

negril beach

OUR REPRESENTATIVE AT YOUR HOTEL WILL BOOK THE BEST TOURS ON THE ISLAND, JUST FOR YOU.

We are Jamaica’s largest and most trusted Tour/Transfer Company, boasting a modern, air-conditioned fleet ranging from private luxury cars to 51-foot motor coaches.

contact us:

T: (876) 953-3700 or (876) 953-2825 F: (876) 953-2107 or (876) 953-3845 E: jtladmin@jamaicatoursltd.com WWW.JAMAICATOURSLTD.COM

connect with us

YOU’LL KNOW YOU MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE. Relax a moment, listen to the tranquil sound of water cascading over rocks into the White River.

Meet your skilled raft captain and climb aboard your raft or tube. Glide through the tropical greenery so near you can touch it, see birds nesting in the trees or enjoy the excitement of tubing down the white river rapids. We’ll make a stop at Calypso Cove where you can take a refreshing swim, enjoy a cool drink and get ready to head downstream to rafters end where you can shop for local craft items.

THIS IS OUR WAY OF WELCOMING YOU TO

Jamaica the land of Wood and Water

WWW.CALYPSORAFTING.COM

twice the fun half the price

OPEN DAILY: 8:30 A.M. — 4:30 P.M. 876-795-1209 | 876-817-8433 876-350-4877 BOBMARCON@YAHOO.COM

It's better to experience it at least once than to hear about it a thousand times.

Jamaica THE LAND OF A THOUSAND ADVENTURES!

T

here’s nothing wrong with sitting on the beach and sipping a rum punch, but if you want to add something more to make your Jamaican vacation memorable, then we’ll help you find your adventure!

There are so many possibilities - from serene to extreme - from a leisurely trip down the Rio Grande River on a bamboo raft to an adrenalin-pumping sky dive over a steep precipice in the mountains. Whatever your interest, age, fitness level and budget, there is an adventure waiting for you!

you can try your hand at kiteboarding, parasailing and kayaking or just have fun at one of the several waterparks.

Adventures come in many forms and Jamaica has so much to offer. Blessed by nature the landscape is diverse and travellers can choose from a wide range of outdoor activities: You can saddle up for horse-riding on the beach; swim with dolphins; pet stingrays; feed giant turtles or take a boat ride in search of crocodiles and manatees.

If you are seeking cultural adventures – you can immerse yourself in the island’s rich history – there are walking and trolley tours of historic towns; visits to great houses, historic ruins, and old plantations. Why not go on a rum tour or visit a coffee plantation?

Or learn about the island’s Maroon heritage at Accompong, or visit a Rastafarian camp in the hills?

You can climb waterfalls, tube down a river, jump off cliffs into the sea, swim in icy cold blue holes; relax in the healing waters of a natural mineral spring; or explore off-shore islands and caves. If you like undersea adventures you can snorkel and scuba-dive - our marine life is fascinating and there are many dive sites all along the coast, with drop-offs and swim-through caves. Or

All this and more…you just need to choose your adventure!

2 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Why not take a catamaran cruise at sunrise, or moonlight? Take a zip line canopy tour high above the rainforest or soar over a waterfall? Get wet and muddy as you tear through the back-country on a thrilling ATV adventure? Buckle up for a wild ride on a gravity-driven bobsled down a 1000-metre long mountain track? Or take it down a notch and hike or bike across mountain trails?

Michele Gabay EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

@AOPEJ=PEKJZ

MEET & GREET AIRPORT TRANSFERS TOURS & EXCURSIONS

SPECIAL EVENTS

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Jamaica TOURIST BOARD MESSAGE FOR ADVENTURE ISLAND 2019 a ride on a bamboo raft; to exploring Jamaica’s honeycomb of limestone caves and caverns; from swimming at the Luminous Lagoon to experiencing the adrenaline rush that comes from riding on a dune buggy… Jamaica offers a smorgasbord of activity!

Adventure Island is the perfect companion for persons wishing to explore the many activities we have on offer. Within these pages, you will find information on adventures to suit your needs. Adventure Island is indeed Jamaica’s handbook for an adventurer.

Welcome to Jamaica!

Welcome to my home!

Cooled by the trade winds, Jamaica is the perfect playground for adventure enthusiasts. Ours is an island filled with many unique and pleasant surprises.

Imagine climbing a majestic waterfall or taking a bicycle ride down the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO world heritage site. Or you may want to zip-line above a waterfall, a heart pounding activity showcasing Jamaica from a whole new perspective.

Our six resort areas provide the perfect setting for you to tick the boxes on your bucket list. From experiencing the centuries old tradition of taking

4 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

This is my personal invitation for you to come explore, mix well, and create unforgettable memories. And when you return home, do share with your friends on your exciting activities here in Jamaica.

Donovan White DIRECTOR OF TOURISM

@AOPEJ=PEKJZ KJA OPKL

MEET & GREET AIRPORT TRANSFERS TOURS & EXCURSIONS

SPECIAL EVENTS

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SANGSTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SIA) Green Grotto Caves

Rose Hall Great House

Kool Runnings Adventure Park

Montego Bay

Lucea

Falmouth

Aqua Sol Theme Park

HANOVER

ST. JAMES NEGRIL

Martha Brae River Rafting

TRELAWNY

WESTMORELAND

OCHO RIOS

Savanna-la-Mar

ST. ELIZABETH

Rick’s Cafe

YS Falls

MANCHESTER

Black River Mandeville May Pen

J. Charles Swaby's Black River Safari

Treasure Beach

Little Ochie Seafood

AIRPORTS

BEACHES / RIVERS / SPRINGS

ADVENTURE PARKS & GARDENS

Milk River Mineral Bath

CULTURAL TOURS

IAN FLEMING INTERNATIONAL Dunns River Falls AIRPORT (IFIA) James Bond Beach

St. Ann’s Bay

Port Maria

ST. MARY

ST. ANN

Castleton Gardens

ST. CATHERINE

ST. ANDREW

Port Antonio Blue Mountain Hike

PORTLAND

Bob Marley Museum

Spanish Town

ST. THOMAS

kingston

Reggae Falls

CLARENDON Hellshire Beach Halse Hall Great House

FOOD / RESTAURANT

ADVENTURE TOURS

Frenchman’s Cove Beach

NORMAN MANLEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (NMIA)

HISTORIC SITES

Morant Bay

WATER SPORTS / RAFTING

CONTENTS 2019 | VOL. 4

10 TRANSPORTATION How To Get Around Adventure Island 14 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 21 ACTIVITY CATEGORIES

88 WESTMORELAND

26 KINGSTON

90 Mount Tambrin 90 Seaford Town 92 My Negril 94 Jamwest Motorsports & Adventure Park

34 Art Spaces 36 Kingston Dub Club 38 ST. THOMAS 40 Bath Mineral Spring & Gardens 44 PORTLAND 46 Pellew Island 46 Blue Lagoon 56 ST. MARY 58 Firefly 58 Golden Eye 62 ST. ANN

96 ST. ELIZABETH 98 YS Falls 99 Lover’s Leap 99 Pelican Bar 102 My Treasure Beach 106 J.Charles Swaby’s Black River Safari 110 MANCHESTER

64 Puerto Seco Beach

112 Little Ochi 112 Canoe Valley

72 TRELAWNY

114 CLARENDON

74 Falmouth 75 Good Hope 75 Cockpit Country

116 Milk River Spa

78 ST. JAMES 84 HANOVER

8 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

118 ST. CATHERINE 120 Spanish Town 121 Colbeck Castle 121 Old Iron Bridge

The best care MEDICAL AND SURGICAL SPECIALTIES

24-Hour

HOSPITAL CALL US

618 4455

EMERGENCY ROOM

FACILITIES Hospitalization · ICU · Emergency Rooms · Operating Rooms · Outpatients CT Scanner · Mammography X-ray · Ultrasound Local insurance accepted.

Approved international insurance accepted.

HOSPITEN MONTEGO BAY Rose Hall, St. James Montego Bay. Jamaica montegobay@hospiten.com

www.hospiten.com

JAMAICA · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · MEXICO · PANAMA · SPAIN

Cover Photo Collage LAM Photography Travel Around Jamaica Tours Marketing & Advertising Michelle Belnavis Pelican Publishers Bruce Grayson Yee Published, printed and distributed

by MAPCO Printers Limited.

Editor-in-Chief Michele Gabay Consulting Editor Lorraine Murray Graphics & Creative Pelican Publishers Ltd Photography Deeks Designs LAM Photography Ministry of Tourism Anna Kaiser Tomasz Lada Troddr Photography Michael Lee Jamaica Tourist Board

MAPCO PRINTERS LIMITED, Publisher of the Adventure Island Jamaica, can accept no liability for the views and/or opinions expressed within the publication. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, the Publisher accepts no responsibility for errors, omissions or claims made in any section of the publication. All material in the publication is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws.

No part of the publication can be reproduced or utilized in any form without written approval from the Publisher.

MAPCO PRINTERS LIMITED 71-73 Montgomery Avenue, Kingston 10, Jamaica. www.mapcoprintersjamaica.com E: info@mapcoprinters.com T: 876-929-2623

Transportation How to get around

Adventure Island

Whether you want to walk, ride or drive, getting around this island can be fairly simple and straight forward. Even if your destination is off-the-beaten-track, getting there can be half the fun as being in Jamaica is one big adventure!

Adventure Island will make your excursions easier with information that will not only get you from Point A to Point B, but get you there comfortably.

Happy Trails!

10 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 11

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS NORMAN MANLEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (NMIA) is 20 minutes from Kingston’s city centre and is accessible by charter taxis and buses, as well as the fleet of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC). Located on a picturesque peninsula bordered by the seventh largest natural harbour in the world, it is the primary airport for business travellers, as well as for air cargo.

Tel: 876-924-8452-6 Toll free from Jamaica 1-888-AIRPORT www.nmia@aaj.com.jm

IAN FLEMING INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (IFIA), is the third international airport and is located in Boscobel, St. Mary, just 15 kilometres east of Ocho Rios. It serves the tourist resort areas of Oracabessa, Port Maria, St. Ann’s Bay, Runaway Bay, Discovery Bay and Ocho Rios. Geared at general aviation, it also handles private aircrafts.

Tel: 876-975-3101 ∞ 867-975-3734 Email: ifia@aaj.com.jm | www.ifia.aero

SANGSTER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SIA), is the largest airport and the leading tourism gateway to the island. Located on the northwest coast in Montego Bay, it is at the centre of the main tourism region, within close proximity to cruise ship ports, hotels and resorts..

Tel: 876-952-3124 | www.mbjairport.com 12 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

JCAL

GROUND TRANSPORTATION Transportation is diverse, ranging from economy to luxury:

JUTA Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA) operates a fleet of over 6,000 vehicles ranging in size from cars to tour coaches driven by trained and insured drivers. From airport transfers to islandwide tours for groups and individuals, JUTA will take you to your destination in air-conditioned comfort.

KINGSTON Tel: 876-927-4534 | 876-927-4536 MONTEGO BAY Tel: 876-952-0813 ∞ 876-952-0623 NEGRIL Tel: 876-957-4620 ∞ 876-957-9197 Email: jutakc@hotmail.com www.jutatourskingstonjm.com

CAR RENTAL

The Jamaica Co-operative Automobile & Limousine Tours Ltd (JCAL) operates mainly out of Montego Bay. All drivers are trained, Jamaica Tourist Board certified and uniformed. JCAL offers on-call taxi and shuttle services from hotels in Montego Bay and Negril, Sangster International Airport and the island’s cruise ship piers.

Tel: 876-952-7574 Email: jcal@cwjamaica.com www.jcaltours.com

KNUTSFORD EXPRESS Taking you from city to city in style is their commitment and indeed Knutsford Express has made a name for itself doing just that.

Knutsford Express offers transportation in comfortable, luxury coaches between Kingston and most of the island’s major tourist towns including Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Port Antonio and the south coast. Get comfortable in the air-conditioned coaches which feature reclining seats. Complimentary WiFi and bottled water are available on board. Book your trip online.

Tel: 876-971-1822 www.knutsfordexpress.com

Car rental companies are many, including: AutoAll Car Rentals

876-754-4664

Avis Rent-A-Car

876-926-8021 ∞ 876-926-0378 ∞ 1-888-429-5286

Beaumont’s Car Rentals

876-906-3134

Budget Car Rentals

876-759-1793

Enterprise

1-888-429-5286

Fiesta Car Rentals

1-800-9-FIESTA ∞ 876-684-9444

Hertz Car Rental

876-952-4250 ∞ 876-979-0438 ∞ 924-8028

Island Car Rental

876-929-5875 ∞ 876-926-5991 ∞ 1-888-978-5335

Sunbird Car Rentals

876-929-6647

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 13

calendar of events JANUARY Accompong Maroon Festival

A cultural event involving singing, dancing, storytelling, St. Elizabeth cooking and more to celebrate over 200 years since the signing of the peace treaty between the Maroons and the British.

Bacchanal New Year’s Fete & Band Launch

Fete to launch Bacchanal Jamaica Carnival 2019.

Rebel Salute

Enjoy the greatest roots reggae festival at Plantation Cove St. Ann where a strict vegetarian menu is served complimented by a diet of cultural roots from reggae’s finest.

High Mountain Coffee 10K Road Race

This is a race of strength, stamina and endurance starting Manchester from Williamsfield, up the steeper parts of the Winston Jones Highway, down Kendal and Shooters Hill and ending near Kirkvine.

Bob Marley Birthday Celebrations

A series of events celebrating the life of the King of Kingston Reggae.

Reggae Month

A celebration of Jamaica’s reggae music featuring Kingston weekly live concerts, lectures, a reggae village at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, an awards ceremony and so much more.

Fi Wi Sinting

Celebrating our African traditions with art, craft, food, Portland music and dance.

Jamaica International Reggae Film Festival

A showcase of films from Jamaica and the world that Kingston celebrate Jamaica's reggae music and culture in feature films, documentaries, short films, music videos and animations.

Fat Tyre Festival

This is a 7-day mountain-biking event designed to St. Mary highlight Jamaica’s vibrant culture & unique geography.

Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run

The Caribbean’s largest road race - a unique road-running Kingston event designed to inspire fun, fitness and camaraderie among Jamaica’s business community.

Gibson/McCook Relays

The 42nd edition of Jamaica’s biggest relay carnival - see Kingston Jamaica’s best athletes compete in exciting relay races.

UWI Carnival

Held on the University of the West Indies Mona campus, Kingston it attracts thousands of revellers. Events kick-off with a series of activities, culminating in the Ring Road March.

Jamaica Biennial

A dynamic and diverse art exhibition staged every two Kingston years by the National Gallery of Jamaica, featuring the work of established and up-and-coming creatives in painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, mixed media and installations.

Kingston

FEBRUARY

MARCH One Love Music Festival

A music festival held at the Aqueduct at Rosehall to St. James celebrate Bob Marley’s life.

Kingston City Run Half Marathon, 10K and 5K

A roots rocking, reggae fun-filled weekend culminating Kingston with a road race. Experience the vibe of Kingston, by running its major business districts, attractions and entertainment sites.

ADA Car Show

See, learn about and compare all the latest cars on show. Kingston

Misty Bliss

A nature lover’s dream celebrating the Blue & John St Andrew Crow Mountains.

Spring Break

Fun in the sun in Negril for the young at heart.

Westmoreland

Jamaica Orchid Society Show

Floral showcase.

Kingston

ISSA/Grace Kennedy Boys & Girls Champs

The region’s track & field meet for high schools from Kingston which many Olympians & world champions have emerged.

Stepping High Ganja Festival

While it’s all about ganja, there’s plenty of entertainment, Westmoreland workshops, and food at this Negril-based Festival. There is also a Rasta/Afro Caribbean-style fashion show.

Earth Hour Concert

The biggest acoustic concert as Earth Hour highlights Kingston conversations about climate change and sustaining a green lifestyle.

Liguanea Art and Craft Fair

They say the staging of this incredible, art and craft show will be in Spring. Look out for this not-to-bemissed unique fair.

Bacchanal Beach J’ouvert

More Paint.....More Fete....More Bacchanal at Grizzly’s St. Ann Plantation Cove.

Kingston

APRIL NDTC Easter Morning The annual Easter Sunday sunrise performance by the Kingston Music & Movement National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC).

Montego Bay Easter Regatta

Annual sailing event.

Bacchanal J’ouvert & Road March

Socaphiles will fete all night and then take the party to Kingston the streets in the early morning.

Bacchanal Road Parade

Join the feting in the streets of Kingston in your beautiful, Kingston colourful carnival costume or watch the parade from the sidelines where it’s a party just the same.

Portland Bight Green Run

Celebrate Jamaica’s larget protected area with a 7.5Km Clarendon run from Pawsey Park, Lionel Town to Portland Cottage, Clarendon.

Jakes Off-Road Triathlon

Features a 300-metre protected ocean swim, a 25K St. Elizabeth off–and-on road back-country mountain bike and a 7K trail run all taking place in Treasure Beach.

St James

Jamaica Horticultural Blooms, buds, flowers and all sorts of gorgeous flora Kingston Society Show to catch your eye.

Information is subject to change without notice

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 15

APRIL Jamaica Kite Festival

An epic, fun-filled event with kite-flying as the main St. Ann attraction.

Curry Festival

Celebrating curry in all it’s forms - it’s a culinary experience! Westmoreland

St. Elizabeth Horticultural Show

The annual flower show, held in Black River, features St. Elizabeth an Easter bonnet parade, marching bands and lots of entertainment.

Yam Festival

Traditionally held on Easter Monday (since 1997) this Trelawny long-standing event is an island favourite. Jamaica produces 18 different varieties of yam – and the show celebrates the many innovative yam products from yam croquettes to yam wine. There are food stalls and samplings, demos and entertainment.

Expo Jamaica

Jamaica’s premier trade show primarily features food Kingston and beverage, but also looks at exciting new locally produced items including nutraceuticals, essential oils, as well as cosmetics, aromatherapy and spa products.

MAY Labour Day

May 23 is Labour Day and it is a public holiday. Jamaicans go out in their numbers to work on projects to beautify and clean-up public areas, repair, paint and build. There are lots of celebratory events islandwide after work is done! One of the major events is the Labour Day Concert held down town Kingston on the waterfront with a line-up of top local artistes performing.

Jamaica International Invitational World Challenge

An IAAF World Challenge Event – immensely competitive Kingston and exciting with appearances by the world’s track and field elite.

Jamaica Observer Food Awards

Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the food industry’ the Table Talk Kingston Food Awards is a stellar event celebrating excellence in Jamaican cuisine. You get to see and taste all that’s new on the local food scene as you work your way through over 60 fabulous tented booths laid out on the lawns of Devon House.

Style Week

A 3-day fashion showcase that culminates with Jamaica’s Kingston top models walking a 100ft. runway in the middle of Kingston’s busiest street.

Ocho Rios Jazz Festival

Jazz music enthusiasts will enjoy this weekend of music St. Ann showcasing distinguished musicians and artists from Jamaica, the Caribbean and the rest of the world.

JN Racers Grand Prix

Racers Track Club, home of triple Olympic Champion Kingston Usain Bolt, hosts some of the world’s finest athletes for an exciting track meet.

Caribbean Fashion Week

Elegant fashion & music affair with the trendiest designers. Kingston

National Senior Championships

See the best of Jamaica’s track & field athletes compete Kingston to represent Jamaica at the World Championships.

JUNE

Information is subject to change without notice

Portland Jerk Festival

Succulent food of every kind jerked to perfection, plus Portland lively evening entertainment.

Breadfruit Festival

Sample the variety of dishes made from breadfruit.

National Dance Theatre Company

The internationally-celebrated National Dance Theatre Kingston Company (NDTC) launches its season of dance (JulyAugust) with creative dancing exploring traditional and modern forms.

Reggae Sumfest

International & local reggae stars perform for three St. James nights in Montego Bay.

Smirnoff Dream Weekend

The Negril weekend includes up to 10 party events with Westmoreland thousands of patrons participating in themed activities.

JULY St. Mary

AUGUST This is an important month on the calendar for Jamaica - we celebrate Emancipation Day on August 1 and Independence Day on August 6 with a week of festivities. There are many exciting events held across the island, with the main events taking place in Kingston.

Traditional celebratory activities include Jamaica Festival, Mello-Go-Round, Emancipation Vigil, Augus’ Fair, Thanksgiving Church Service, and World Reggae Dance Finals, culminating in the Grand Gala held at the National Stadium. Other activities islandwide include street parades, dances and talent shows.

The Emancipation Jubilee Celebration is held at the historic site of Seville in St. Ann. MoBay Jerk Festival

Experience the highlights of authentic Jamaican culinary St. James delights at this event which includes a presentation of jerk meats and treats and activities for the entire family.

Great Bay Carnival

Promoting real community tourism in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth it attracts a bumper crowd with rides and attractions, kiddie’s village, Caribbean food and ending off with a road march and night party.

Kingston Kitchen

An all-time favourite, it is a great food event held on the Kingston grounds of Hope Gardens. A wonderful open-air night market under the stars where patrons get to sample authentic Jamaican food, watch cooking demos and buy artisanal food products from small batch vendors.

Blue Mountain Coffee Festival

Part of the Blue Mountain Culinary Trail, it is staged Kingston on the parade grounds at the Jamaica Defence Force training camp in Newcastle, with an awesome backdrop of the mountains.

International Dancehall Queen Competition

Performers from all over the world compete for the St. James coveted title in Montego Bay.

Mello-Go-Round

The best of the best gold medal winning festival Kingston performances are showcased.

Auntie Roachie Film Festival

An impressive collection of short films and more.

Little Ochi Seafood Festival

One of the biggest seafood festivals in Jamaica, it is Manchester held at the Little Ochi seaside restaurant, offering great seafood and lots of fun and entertainment for the family.

Information is subject to change without notice

Kingston

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 17

AUGUST Denbigh Agricultural Show

An agricultural show with a craft village, health and Clarendon wellness booths, farmers market, food court, organic village and produce displays and competitions.

Grand Gala

An evening of performances that highlight the best of Kingston Jamaica’s diverse culture.

Ocho Rios Seafood Festival

A fun-filled family event with all-you-can-eat seafood!

National Rum Day

August 16 is designated National Rum Day, with happy St. Elizabeth hour hosted by Appleton Estate Rums.

World Reggae Dance Championships

Dancers compete for bragging rights, cash and title.

Portland Jamboree

Full on one-week carnival in Port Antonio with jonkanoo Portland dancing (traditional Caribbean dancing with West African roots).

Miss Jamaica World Beauty Pageant

Some of Jamaica’s most beautiful girls compete to be Kingston our next global ambassador to embody “Beauty With A Purpose”.

St. Ann

Kingston

SEPTEMBER Gungo Walk Music & Art festival

A showcase of artistes performing alternative, folk and Kingston experimental expressions of music in the Jamaican, Caribbean and International experience.

Miss Lou Day

Celebrates the life of cultural icon, folklorist Louise Kingston Bennett. There is a star-studded show with theatre and performing artistes.

Jamaica Spice Festival

Over fifty exhibitors of food products, demos and chef- St. Ann cook-offs. There’s a Kiddies Zone and baking corner.

OCTOBER National Heroes Day is on October 16 and we celebrate with a week of activities paying tribute to Jamaica’s national heroes. Activities include a variety of events including cultural shows.

Port Antonio Marlin Tournament

Fun, social events and competitive angling summarizes Portland this weeklong sport-fishing event.

Port Royal Seafood Festival

Usually held on National Heroes weekend, all roads Kingston lead to the seafood capital, Port Royal.

Jamaica Food & Drink Festival

Over 50 chefs, 7 yummy events at 7 iconic venues -all Kingston for one unforgettable culinary experience!

Pan 2018

A cook-off for pan-style chefs islandwide who show- Kingston off their skills at the finals held at the National Stadium.

Peter Tosh Birthday Celebrations

Tributes to world-renowned reggae legend Peter Tosh Kingston are held in Kingston and his birthplace in Westmoreland.

Merritone Homecoming A celebration of music. and Reunion Information is subject to change without notice

Kingston

Oktoberfest

Lots of German beer, wine, Jamaican and German Kingston food, fun and games.

Digicel Foundation 5K Run/Walk for Special Needs

Thousands of extraordinary Jamaicans take to the streets Kingston to race through downtown Kingston for a night run and an electrifying evening of fun and live entertainment - all with a goal to raise funds and increase awareness for Special Needs.

Hook & Line Canoe Tournament

A 3-day competition in Treasure Beach during which St. Elizabeth local fishermen vie for prizes by catching the largest fish using only traditional fishing methods of a simple hook and line.

SEJA

The Caribbean's premier Spinning®, fitness and yoga Westmoreland destination vacation event on the sandy shores of Negril.

Jamaica Wellness & Beauty Expo

Fitness classes, health screening, spa treatments and Kingston much more.

Caribbean Heritage Festival

This Heritage Fest, held in Portmore, showcases food, Kingston dance and music to celebrate the island’s rich ethnic diversity. From Indian curry to Lebanese dancing to Chinese fortune-telling.

Jamaican Made Christmas

Over 90 exhibitors showcase their products at this Kingston exciting pre-Christmas fair. Shoppers pay an entrance fee, which is re-issued as a shopping voucher – that way no one leaves empty-handed and you are sure to find a unique Jamaican-made gift or two…

The Collection Moda

This innovative art, craft, fashion and foodie show supports Kingston local creatives. There’s a buyer’s market, fashion show, food court and lots of entertainment.

Restaurant Week

An islandwide event with over 80 restaurants participating Islandwide offering patrons discounted dining experiences in varying price categories, from ‘Epicurian’ to ‘Nyam and Scram.’

Antiques & Collectibles Fair

Antique treasures and memorabilia on sale.

Ocean Style Fashion Showcase Weekend

A weekend in Montego Bay for a discerning audience St. James with an appreciation for fashion, parties, golf and fun with an enviable guest list of tastemakers.

Rib, Roast, Rum & More

A premium food and drink event. The all-you-can-eat- Kingston and-drink event, features an array of ribs, jerk pork, jerk chicken, roast fish, burgers, salads, pastas, soups, and desserts.

NOVEMBER

Kingston

DECEMBER It’s the Christmas season and art and craft fairs are held almost every weekend: Devon House Craft Fair | The Association of Potters Fair | Grosvenor Gallery Art & Craft Fairs

Kingston

Con’oco Art and Craft Fair

St. Ann

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 19

DECEMBER Com Mek We Laff

Stand-Up Comedy showcase for charity.

Diner en Blanc

The secret dinner in white is an elaborate pop-up event Kingston for which the date, time and venue are disclosed at the very last moment… our guess is that it will be held in December!

Smile Jamaica Concert

Reggae concert event to celebrate the anniversary of the St. Ann iconic Smile Jamaica Concert first held on December 5, 1976, when Bob Marley performed before a crowd of 80,000.

Kingston Music Week

A series of events around Kingston where music lovers Kingston may immerse themselves in a pool of good music, positive energy, camaraderie, and pure contentment.

Reggae Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K

Jamaica's premier marathon event. Marathoners, sports Westmoreland enthusiasts as well as beginners, converge in Negril, Jamaica’s capital of casual, for a fun event characterized by good vibes and lots of reggae music.

LTM Pantomime Opening

A 76-year tradition this theatrical production features Kingston folk songs and original music dance, comedy, drama and colourful costumes and sets to tell a story with universal appeal to all ages.

Harbour Fest

Ring in the New Year with the phenomenal fireworks Kingston display on the waterfront downtown.

Kingston

Throughout the year there are many artsy events – check out online for dates for the Kingston Art Walks downtown, Paint and Sip gatherings, Kingston Night Markets and Sanaa Studios Art Markets.

Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts – every month students at the School stage art exhibitions, as well as dance, music, and theatrical performances.

Art exhibitions and shows are staged throughout the year at the National Gallery in Kingston and Montego Bay, as well as at the other galleries throughout the island. Check arteventsja.com and evenbrite.com to get up-to-date information on current and upcoming art happenings!

There are also lots of foodie events, including The Real Deal Street Movement held the last weekend of every month in Golden Spring in Kingston.

Information is subject to change without notice

20 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

activity categories USE THE KEY BELOW TO IDENTIFY THE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AS YOU TRAVEL AROUND JAMAICA. ADVENTURE TOURS

BEACHES/ RIVERS/SPRINGS

CRUISES/ FISHING/ RAFTING GAMING HISTORIC SITES GOLF COURSES/SPORTS FOOD/RESTAURANTS SCENIC LANDSCAPE

CULTURAL TOURS HORSEBACK RIDING SHOPPING

ADVENTURE PARKS & GARDENS WATER SPORTS ART/SCULPTURE MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 21

KINGSTON YOU ARE

HERE

K

ingston and the surrounding parish of St. Andrew offer the adventurer a myriad of exciting and interesting things to do and see.

The area extends along the coast of 26 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

the harbour all the way up into the Blue Mountains. Here you get the rare opportunity to enjoy a range of urban, mountain and coastal activities.

Kingston is the capital, and it is the heartbeat of Jamaica. It is a city of contrasts – beautiful, yet gritty; laid-back, but full of energy; frustrating, yet amusing; constant, but full of surprises. It’s a social city - step out of your comfort zone and Kingston will welcome you!

KINGSTON First settled by the residents of Port Royal who survived the devastating earthquake of 1672, it grew from a small settlement straddled along the harbour to eventually encompass the agricultural ‘pens’ on the lower slopes of the Blue Mountains. It became the commercial hub during the colonial era, and was designated capital of the island in 1872.

PLACES OF HISTORIC & ARCHITECTURAL INTEREST Redolent of Empire, you will find places of great historic and architectural interest - from the centuries-old pirate town of Port Royal located on the tip of the Palisadoes, to the remote colonial hill station of the British army in Newcastle. There are also well-preserved historic mansions such as Devon House, Hibbert House, Vale Royal and King’s House, as well as some of the old plantation houses in the mountains, including Craighton Coffee Estate and Clifton Mount. There are some beautiful churches to visit, as well as forts, monuments and sculptures, and even a lighthouse at Plumb Point built in 1853.

Plumb Point

Vale Royal

GARDENS AND PARKS

Clifton Mount

Hope Botanical Gardens

Kingston boasts several gardens – there is the expansive Hope Botanical Gardens, that also houses the stunning Chinese Garden and a Zoo. On the city outskirts, you will find the historic gardens of Castleton, Holywell and Cinchona. There is also Boone Hall, where the Wag Water River flows through the property; and the Heritage Gardens of Cold Spring which is an interpretative nature centre for the Blue Mountains. Urban gardens include Emancipation Park, a popular venue for Kingstonians; and National Heroes Park a quiet, tranquil space honouring the memory of our political leaders, national heroes and cultural icons. And there is the Sculpture Park at the University of Technology, the only one of its kind in the Caribbean.

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 27

BEACHES AND OFFSHORE ISLANDS Kingston doesn’t really have any white sand beaches, so we borrow from neighbouring parish, St. Catherine.

They are close enough to call our own - there’s Hellshire and Fort Clarence in the west; and to the east, we borrow from St. Thomas - the dark sand beaches of Cable Hut and Bull Bay, where surfers take advantage of the rough waves (further along you will find the Bob Marley Beach and Cane River Falls). Then there are the small offshore islands – you can take a fishing boat over to Lime Cays or Maiden Cays – both popular locations for a relaxed beach day. Kingston even boasts a spa, the Mineral Spa at Rockfort is worldrenowned for its curative powers.

Wicky Wacky Beach

MOUNTAIN ESCAPES If you are a nature lover, or seeking a quiet escape then head up into the Blue Mountains. Whether it’s a leisurely drive, or strenuous hiking or cycling you will enjoy the trip, with lots of scenic stops, including tiny waterfalls and streams along the route.

Cinchona Gardens

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT If you are looking for non-stop entertainment then Kingston is the place to be. It’s a perpetual party, every night of the week, from dawn to dusk. Take your pick: sports and gaming lounges; trendy uptown bars or street corner bars; stage shows and live concerts with top reggae artists and visiting international musicians; street dances; harbour cruise parties; theme parties; and all-inclusive parties. One of the most popular chill out spots is Dub Club in Stony Hill, every Sunday night. Then there’s Carnival – we adapted this festival from Trinidad (true home of Carnival) infused it with 28 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Dub Club

KINGSTON reggae and dancehall, and we now host our own! It’s a high-energy, fun-filled event that starts in January with weekly fetes and ends after Easter with the colourful costumed revellers taking to streets for the big road march parade.

HERITAGE AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Negro Aroused Sculpture

Cultural activities are varied: there are museums and galleries, and creatives are showcasing their work in all kinds of places – there’s street art, art walks and artist studio tours. And there are several art festivals throughout the year including Moda, Liguanea Art Festival, the Potters Fair and the Grosvenor and Devon House Fairs. There are several theatre and dance companies, such as the highly acclaimed National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC).

Most are Kingston-based and stage productions are held on specific dates in the summer and around Christmas time.

SPORTS You can take in the local sporting scene at the National Stadium, where our top athletes compete at major events throughout the year (this is where Olympic gold medalist, Usain Bolt, ‘the fastest man alive’ made his debut as a young school boy). Punters can take in horse-racing at Caymanas Park; golfers can practice their swing at the Constant Spring Golf Club; and if cricket is your game then head straight to Sabina Park, the best-known cricket stadium in the Caribbean.

FOOD ADVENTURES There is an evolving foodie scene in Kingston and it’s exciting! Apart from the many restaurants and cafes throughout the city, there are many food events, festivals, pop-up kitchens, culinary tours and artisan markets that will entice you.

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 29

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Devon House

Built in 1821 on Hope Road by George Stiebel. Of mixedrace, he has been dubbed the first Jamaican-born, selfmade millionaire. Tour the mansion with its fine antiques, stroll the gardens, browse the craft stores, and enjoy the culinary offerings at the many restaurants and eateries on the property.

876-926-0815 HISTORIC SITES

Hibbert House 876-922-1287-8

Also known as Headquarter House, it was built in 1755, and is the only surviving example of a wealthy merchant’s townhouse. Located on Duke Street, it is has a curious history with interesting architectural details, antiques and some fine paintings. It is also the temporary home to the controversial 9ft. statue of National Hero, Paul Bogle. The Jamaica National Heritage Trust operates from the building.

Historic Churches

The Kingston Parish Church is a landmark downtown. Facing Parade on King Street, it was one of the first public buildings erected in Kingston before 1699. It has beautiful stainedglass windows and several historic marble monuments; the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, located between North Street and George Headley Drive, has an impressive large rose window and 85ft high copper covered dome ceiling; the Coke Methodist Chapel is an imposing red-bricked building located at East Parade.

Mico University College

Located on Marescaux Road, it was built in 1834 and is the largest teacher training institution in the Caribbean, and one of the oldest in the world. Visitors can book a tour of the INAFAC Museum (Indian, African and Caribbean) and also arrange to tour the campus which has some beautifully restored historic buildings, including a small chapel. There is also an impressive sculptural installation on the front lawn.

876-929-5260

National Stadium

Built in 1966 off Mountain View, it is the major sports and cultural complex in Jamaica, and has been host to all major sporting and gala events over the decades. Independence Park, located at the main entrance, features sculptures of Jamaica’s sporting heroes. And just across the road, is Celebrity Park, where the famous Bob Marley statue is located.

Newcastle

A military station in the Blue Mountains where ‘men are broken and soldiers are made’, it was established in 1841.

Visit the parade ground which offers a panoramic view of the city.

Parade

Located in the centre of downtown, it was laid out as an ornamental garden in 1870. Today it’s in the heart of the commercial district and it’s all hustle and bustle – but there are several historic monuments to be seen, including largerthan-life sculptures of founding fathers and National Heroes, Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley, as well as Queen Victoria and former Governor Sir Charles Metcalfe.

30 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Port Royal

Take a walking tour of the historic town of Port Royal - Visit St. Peter’s Church, the old naval hospital, Fort Charles, Giddy House, the naval cemetery and the museum. The Port Royal light house is also close by.

University of the West Indies

Built in 1948 in Mona, it is spread over 635 acres on a former sugar estate, and is one on the most beautiful campuses. There are several historic landmarks including stone aqueducts and ruins. There is also the magnificent University chapel built of cutstone, salvaged from an old sugar factory in Trelawny. Several state-of-the-art modern buildings have been built, among them is the impressive School of Engineering. The sports complex also accommodates the track where Olympic champion Usain Bolt trained. There is a small museum, and there are various sculptures and murals to be seen around the campus grounds.

Ward Theatre

The grande dame of Jamaican theatre, it was originally constructed in 1776 on the corner of King Street. It succumbed to several fires over the centuries and had to be rebuilt many times. It is a popular venue for local and international plays, dance and ballet performances as well as cultural and civic events (it is currently under renovation).

Markets

A big part of Jamaican life, there have been many markets located in the downtown area. Today Coronation, located on Pechon Street, is perhaps the most popular for fresh produce (also called Duppy Market as it is beside a graveyard); The street market on Princess Street is a colourful bazaar that meanders endlessly through the adjoining back streets.

There is also the Craft Market located on Port Royal Street.

Cinchona Gardens

Way off-the-beaten-track, high up in the Blue Mountains, it was established in 1868 as a botanical garden and research centre undertaking the experimental cultivation of cinchona trees. Today it is in ruin, but for the adventurous traveller it is worth the long trek to explore.

Heritage Gardens of Cold Spring

A delightful property located in the mountains, not far from Newcastle, there are terraced gardens and old coffee work ruins. It is an interpretive nature centre for the Blue Mountain region. It also hosts art and cultural events as well as health and wellness activities.

HISTORIC SITES

SHOPPING

ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

876-978-6297

University Chapel

Port Royal

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Holywell Park

A nature reserve and recreational park operated by the Jamaica Conservation Development Trust. Located in the Blue Mountains, it has expansive grounds and offers hiking trails, picnic spots and camping areas.

876-920-8287 ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

Hope Botanical Gardens & Zoo 876-970-3505

BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

Located on Old Hope Road, the Garden stretches over 100 acres. It features spacious lawns, huge trees, flower beds, ornamental ponds and greenhouses. The Chinese Garden is very impressive and a must-see attraction on the property. There is also a small Zoo.

National Heroes Park

A tranquil space honouring the memory of our political leaders, national heroes and cultural icons. There are landscaped gardens with manicured lawns, colourful flower beds and huge shade trees. You can see the formal Changing of the Guards (every hour), and view the memorials and burial vaults which were all designed by leading local architects and feature sculptural artwork by well-known Jamaican artists.

Rockfort Mineral Bath

Discovered after the historic 1907 earthquake, it sits at the foot of Long Mountain. The spring water is said to contain saline and radioactive properties.

876-938-5055

41 Fleet Street

Two creative projects Paint Jamaica and Plant Jamaica were initiated downtown to uplift the inner city through art and sustainable farming. Transformed by bright, colourful murals all around, it’s a stunning zone, well worth a visit if you are seeking a cultural adventure.

Natural History Museum

The new habitat dioramas at the Natural History Museum on East Street offer walk-through, life-size vignettes showcasing the island’s diverse ecosystems from wetlands to coral reefs. Children, as well as adults, can experience Jamaica’s exciting natural world with this state-of-the-art exhibition brought to life with light, sound and special effects.

Negro Aroused Sculpture

The most iconic public sculpture in Kingston is Edna Manley’s masterpiece, Negro Aroused. A defining feature along the waterfront, the carving of this monumental work started during the period of Jamaica’s political awakening in the 1930s. The figure gazes skyward, and symbolizes the dawning of a new consciousness of self, race and nationhood.

Sanaa Studios

Located in Liguanea, it is the only creative space of its kind in Kingston. In addition to its regular curriculum, it offers drop-in art classes and workshops for adults and children.

ART/ SCULPTURE

876-977-4792

The Crying Monument

Located in the Secret Garden on the corner of Church and Tower Street, it is a moving memorial dedicated to children who have died due to crime and violence.

Belcour Estate

A 7-acre farm in a valley by the Mammee River at the foothills of the Blue Mountains, it offers food tours, cooking classes and culinary events.

876-383-8942

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Clifton Mount

Beyond Newcastle, this environmentally-friendly coffee farm, also grows ornamental flowers. Book a tour to visit the farm, as well as the historic house with its magnificent gardens and views.

Craighton Estate Great House & Coffee Tour

One of the best coffee estate tours, it is located near Irish Town in the Blue Mountains. The property is owned and operated by the Japanese coffee company, Ueshima.

CULTURAL TOURS

876-929-8490

Trench Town Culture Yard 876-859-6741

Paragliding

If you are seeking the ultimate adrenalin rush you can paraglide solo, or tandem launching off Skyline drive above Papine. It’s short and steep, and you land at the sports field at UTECH. Paragliding is also offered in St. Elizabeth, St. Ann, Manchester and St. Thomas.

Sabina Park

A world-renowned venue for local and international cricket matches, it also hosts stellar music and entertainment events. It is located on South Camp Road.

ADVENTURE TOURS

876-922-8423

GOLF COURSES/ SPORTS

Constant Spring Golf Club 876-924-1610

Acropolis Gaming

GAMING

Trench Town was the first Kingston home of reggae icon, Bob Marley, as well as several other musicians including Bunny Wailer and Peter Tosh. Located downtown in west Kingston, you can take a walking tour through the community, see where Marley lived and view some of his music memorabilia, as well as visit the museum and souvenir shop.

An 18-hole championship golf course it is located on Constant Spring Road. There is also a pool and bar. Scotchies Jerk operates a restaurant on the premises. There is a football turf field, and squash and badminton are offered by a private company, Alpha Fitness.

876-978-1299

A luxury gaming lounge located in the Loshusan Mall on East King’s House Road, here patrons can also bet on their favourite international sporting events.

Macau Gaming Lounge and Bar

A great place to hang out. Also has a rooftop restaurant and bar. Located on Lindsay Crescent.

876-925-6395

The Vault 876-665-3238

Slots, blackjack, roulette and much more. Open 24 hours on weekends. Located at 100 Hope Road.

Monte Carlo Gaming Lounge

A vibrant Vegas-style casino located at the Terra Nova Hotel on Waterloo Road.

876-926-2211

Little Theatre 876-926-6129 MUSIC/ ENTERTAINMENT

The most popular theatre for innovative Caribbean performance. Located on Arthur Wint Drive, it is home for the Jamaica Folk Singers and the National Dance Theatre Company. The range of activities include plays, dance recitals, film viewings, concerts and lectures.

Information is subject to change without notice

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 33

art spaces GALLERIES | ART & CRAFT AMAICRAFT The Trade Centre, 30-31 Red Hills Road Shop #27, Kingston 10 876-920-9134

ARTSTOCK Edna Manley College for the Visual & Performing Arts 1 Arthur Wint Drive, Kingston 5 876-754-8159

CRAFT COTTAGE Village Plaza, 24 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10 876-926-0719

DÉCOR VIII 8 Hillcrest Avenue, Kingston 8 876-927-8111

GALLERY BARRINGTON 75 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6 876-978-7424

GROSVENOR GALLERY 1 Grosvenor Terrace, Manor Park, Kingston 8 876-924-6684

HI-QO ART GALLERY 24 Waterloo Avenue, Kingston 876-926-4183

ISLAND ART & FRAMING 20 Barbican Road, Kingston 6 876-977-0318

KINGSTON CRAFT MARKET Port Royal Street & Ocean Boulevard, Downtown, 876-875-6606

MY JAMAICA Liguanea Plaza, Kingston 6 876-977-2805

34 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

NATIONAL GALLERY 12 Ocean Boulevard, Roy West Building, Downtown 876-922-1561/2

OLYMPIA GALLERY 202 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6 876-927-1608

THINGS JAMAICA Corporate Shop, 14 Camp Road, Kingston 4 Tel: 876-928-5161-5 Norman Manley Int’l Airport, Departure Lounge 876-924-8371 Devon House, Hope Road 876-926-1961

MUSEUMS BOB MARLEY MUSEUM 56 Hope Road, Kingston 6 876-927-9152

DEVON HOUSE HERITAGE SITE & MUSEUM 26 Hope Road, Kingston 10 876-929-6602

INSTITUTE OF JAMAICA 10-16 East Avenue, Kingston, Downtown 876-922-0620 Natural History Museum & Diaramas Taino Museum Fort Charles Museum African Caribbean Institute Jamaica Memory Bank People’s Museum of Craft & Technology Liberty Hall

JEWISH MUSEUM 92 Duke Street, Downtown 876-922-5931

KINGSTON

SCULPTURE PARKS SCULPTURE PARK UTECH, 237 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6 876-927-1680-8

EMANCIPATION PARK Oxford Road, New Kingston 876-926-6312

NATIONAL HEROES PARK MILITARY MUSEUM Jamaica Defense Force Up Park Camp, Kingston.

876-926-8121-9

MONEY MUSEUM

National Heroes Circle, Kingston 876-656-8031

INDEPENDENCE & CELEBRITY PARK National Stadium, 876-754-6772

Bank of Jamaica, Nethersole Place, Downtown 876-922-0750

PETER TOSH MUSEUM Pulse Centre, 38a Trafalgar Road New Kingston 876-906-0049

UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES MUSEUM Mona Road, Kingston 6 876-977-6065

ONLINE PLATFORMS ARTEPHEMERA www.artephemera.com

SUZIE WONG PRESENTS www.suziewongpresents.com suziewongpresents

Island Art & Framing

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 35

| FEATURE

KINGSTON

dub

club Home of the Rockers Sound Station, KINGSTON DUB CLUB is an independent music venue founded by Gabre Selassie, and it is dedicated to the preservation of original sound system culture.

Nestled in the hills overlooking the city of Kingston it provides a haven for dub, roots & reggae lovers from around the world.

E

very Sunday night the System blasts musical selections from a deep reggae, roots, dub catalogue – it’s like an oral history paying homage to the musical traditions deeply rooted in Jamaican culture.

After many years of searching for the perfect venue in Jamaica for Rockers Sound Station, a sound system bequeathed to Gabre by the late Augustus Pablo, it became clear after many uphill battles that there was nowhere more welcoming than his own home. It is with the same respect and admiration that he has for the music of Jamaica that we have for him in opening his doors to people from around the world to share a heartical vibration.

‘We give thanks that we live in a ‘reggae’-dential area and ask all attendees to treat it as such. Please leave all bad mind and negative vibes at the gate – only love and light are welcome in the Kingston Dub Club.’

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 37

Reggae Falls

st. thomas YOU ARE

HERE

I

f St. Thomas isn’t on your itinerary, it should be! For the adventurous traveller there is so much to explore. Often referred to as 38 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

the forgotten parish, first impressions are that it is a harsh landscape, arid and punishingly hot with dusty bad roads‌but if you venture into this eastern most parish with an open mind, you will find that St. Thomas reveals itself unexpectedly. It is naturally beautiful in an austere way, with some of the most spectacular and dramatic scenery not seen anywhere else in Jamaica. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Mountain range,

ST. THOMAS which actually peaks at 7400 ft. in the parish, you see a varied landscape: monolithic outcrops of rocks; and magnificent stretches of coastline that vary from craggy, precipitous coastal cliffs to beaches that change from black sand and pebbles to powdery golden sand. There are vast open spaces of grassy plains, rich fertile valleys, many rivers and streams, hidden springs and waterfalls, and tiny offshore islands.

Botany Bay

The glory of St. Thomas lies in its past. It was the first part of the island settled by the British colonists in 1655, and was constantly under attack by European pirates; it is known to be home to the rebels, and was where several rebellions took place, including the infamous Morant Bay Rebellion in 1865, which was to change the course of Jamaica’s history.

It was also one of the richest parishes, and had many thriving sugar and banana plantations, and high mountain coffee farms – today almost all are in ruin, but remnants of the old estates with their great houses are still there to be explored.

African retentions are strongest in St. Thomas, and oral histories abound, so too herbal remedies and spiritual healing. It was here that the eastern Maroons first settled, and where the early Rastafarian movement began. Several of Jamaica’s talented selftaught artists are from the parish, and it is renowned for its exceptionally-gifted wood-carvers.

Morant Bay Light House

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 39

Bath Botanical Gardens

BATH MINERAL SPRING & GARDENS

B

ath is a quaint little town with old world charm and an interesting history. Famous for its mineral spring and botanical garden it was one of the earliest settlements in St. Thomas. Legend has it that in 1695 a slave, bathing his foot ulcers in the river, discovered the curative powers of the waters. He told his owner of the mystical healing, and a bath house was built and it soon became a fashionable seasonal resort for the wealthy. People came from far and wide to ‘take the waters,’ which it was claimed could cure all manner of illnesses from hysteria to rheumatism. Today, locals and visitors still enjoy the mineral waters - there is a sanatorium-style spa with private mineral baths, as well as a few guest rooms and a restaurant. Some visitors opt to experience the water directly from the source by the river, where a

rustic, informal spa has been set up in the river by the locals.

The Gardens Established in 1779, it was the first botanical garden built in Jamaica and the second in the western hemisphere.

Almost all the exotic trees, rare plants and flowers now commonplace in Jamaica, were first introduced at Bath, including the breadfruit brought to Jamaica by Captain Bligh. The Garden was prone to flooding, and was later transferred in 1868 to Castleton Gardens high in the hills. Today the garden is much smaller, but you can still walk around and look at the many interesting trees and plants. There is also a small ruin and a wishing well.

Just beside the garden is a beautiful historic church.

876-703-4345

40 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Cane River Falls

A favourite place where Bob Marley washed his locks, there is also the Bob Marley Beach close by where it is said he would swim.

876-750 9717 or 876-468-4083

Holland Bay Beach

Located near the Morant Bay lighthouse, it is a remote white sand beach ideal for surfing.

Lyssons Beach

Beyond Morant Bay, it is one of the best beaches in the parish, well-maintained with good facilities. The property is owned by the University of the West Indies.

Prospect Beach

Another good beach in St. Thomas, it is situated beyond Morant Bay.

Reggae Falls

A favourite spot, with a spectacular waterfall – it is actually man-made, created from an abandoned dam.

Whitehorses Beach

A scenic spot just off the main road, it is great for swimming and body-surfing with the waves rolling in. The small Roselle Waterfall is on the roadside opposite, and the white cliffs dominate the landscape in the distance.

Suncoast Adventure Park

Offers paint ball, Anancy maze, hiking trails and mini golf.

Located 15 minutes from the Harbour View roundabout.

Open Sat-Sun 9am-4:30pm. Caters to large groups (30+) during the week, by reservation only.

876-485-0015

Cunha Cunha Pass 876-849-1543

Judgement Cliff ADVENTURE TOURS

Located near Hayfield, an 8Km mountain trail, once used by the Maroons as a means of escape.

Just north of Yallahs, a huge section of this mountain slid off in the great earthquake of 1692 and a massive landslide buried the plantations below. Adventurous hikers do make the trek up the mountain and are in awe when they see it close-up.

Golden sand beach

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 41

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Morant Bay

Take a walking tour of this once important town in the parish. Although most of the historic buildings were burnt down during the Morant Bay Rebellion of 1865, there are still places of interest to see including the ruins of the courthouse, and there is an old fort and the Tomb of the Martyrs of the Rebellion.

Source Farm Eco Village

A multi-cultural, intergenerational learning village, located in John’s Town. Its aim is to preserve wildlife, and botanical habitats.

CULTURAL TOURS

WATER SPORTS

Jamnesia Surf Club Located in Bull Bay, it offers surfing, meals, board repair & Camp and rentals.

876-750-0103

Morant Bay Light House

A long dusty road through cane fields opens onto a magnificent stretch of white beach at Holland Bay, just off to the right on a bluff is the Morant Bay lighthouse. It is the oldest in the island and the first cast-iron lighthouse to be built in the western hemisphere. An impressive round structure, it was fitted in England and shipped to Jamaica in 1840. It stands 100 ft. and is mounted on a granite base secured into the coral rock below.

Yallahs Salt Ponds

Two fairly deep ponds, they are high in hydrogen sulphide and are several miles in length. Both are separated from the sea and each other by a narrow sand bar. There is a signal tower, built in 1770, which was used to communicate with Port Royal.

YOU HISTORIC ARE

HERESITES

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

Information is subject to change without notice

Morant Bay Court House View of the Salt Ponds

42 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

p a e l e Tak

Fun

ISLANDROUTES.COM

Toll free #

1-877-768-8370

JAMAICA | ANTIGUA | SAINT LUCIA | BAHAMAS | TURKS & CAICOS | BARBADOS GRAND CAYMAN | GRENADA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | ST. MAARTEN | ARUBA | MEXICO

PORTLAND YOU ARE

HERE

I

f you are an adventurer, or just seeking to relax and unwind, then Portland is your destination.

It is the most northeasterly parish, and many say it is the most beautiful.

44 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Great Huts

Lush green and mountainous, it has been blessed by nature. If you are driving along the coast you go from long stretches of white sand beaches to steep, precipitous cliffs; and if you take the backroads through the interior you come across rivers and streams, hidden waterfalls and caves. There are blue holes, and small offshore islands. The parish also boasts two of the finest deep water

PORTLAND harbours. Most of the settlements are found along the coast, but there are isolated towns and villages throughout the mountains.

Maroon Town

The parish has a colourful history, and it is where Jamaica’s tourism and the cruise ship business first started in the late 1870s. The sugar trade was on the decline, and banana was taking over. An enterprising American banana trader, captivated by the beauty of the parish, built a lavish 400-room hotel, and encouraged wealthy Americans to visit the island. The allure of Portland was set, and for the next century it was considered to be paradise. By the 1940s it was glamourized by Hollywood, endorsed by the arrival of world-famous movie star Errol Flynn who arrived in Port Antonio when his yacht washed ashore in bad weather. It became the playground of the very rich and the very famous, from Hollywood legends to titled aristocrats, jet-setting socialites and celebrities. Many spent their winters in Portland and built their fabulous vacation homes.

Great Huts

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 45

PELLEW ISLAND

L

ocated off the coast of San San Bay, tiny Pellew Island or Princess Island, has a very mysterious past.

It was bought in 1953 as a Valentine gift, along with two black panthers, by Swiss billionaire Baron von Thyssen for his young fiancĂŠe and soon-to-be-wife, British model Nina Dyer. A few years later she remarried Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan, and became known as Princess Nina. Many locals recall the vivid image of her reclined under the shade of a sun umbrella on a bamboo raft draped in a huge towel with an ice bucket of champagne at her side, being ferried over the waters to her island.

46 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

BLUE LAGOON

T

here are several blue holes in Jamaica, but the most famous is the Blue Lagoon in Portland. With water varying from deep blue to green it was said to be bottomless, but it is actually 180 ft. deep. There were also rumours of sea monsters lurking in the depths, another myth, as although open on one side to the sea, not even sharks venture into the waters. It was originally called Mallards Hole after a notorious sea captain. In the 1950s it was bought by Robin Moore, internationallyacclaimed author who wrote his thrilling suspense novels French Connection, Green Beret and 90 Minutes from Entebbe, in the tiny villa that overlooks the Lagoon. It is a scenic spot with Riviera-style villas strung out along the entrance and inner shores of the Lagoon.

BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Boston Beach

Golden sand beach, with crashing waves, great for body surfing.

Frenchman’s Cove

Once an exclusive hotel of the rich and famous, it is open to the public and has a fabulous beach, hotel, with a river running through the property.

Long Bay

East of Boston Bay, it is a good stretch of open beach, with rough surf.

Reach Falls 876-276-8663

A spectacular, multi-tiered waterfall secluded in a peaceful spot in the dense interior forest.

San San Beach

Beautiful bay with a white sand beach.

Somerset Falls

East of Hope Bay, the Falls are reached by boat through a narrow rocky inlet.

876-913-0046

Winnifred Beach

A popular beach located in Fairy Hill with a local vibe and good snorkeling sites.

Errol Flynn Marina

The perfect yachting destination named after the famous movie star, Errol Flynn, who eventually made Port Antonio his home.

876-715 6044 or 876-993-3209 CRUISES/ FISHING/ RAFTING

PORTLAND

Rio Grande Rafting 876 654 1893 or 876-913-5434

The River rises in the heights of the Blue Mountain and rushes down gorges – the bamboo rafting picks it up where it meanders placidly through plantations of banana and sugar-cane.

Long Bay Beach

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HISTORIC SITES

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Folly Estate

Ruins of a grand mansion on a 90-acre estate.

Folly Point Lighthouse

40 ft. high, it sits on the breezy shore of the East Harbour.

Trident Castle

An impressive building with turrets and a tiny chapel, it was built in 1979 and overlooks a small bay. Although private property, it makes a great backdrop for a photo op!

Nonesuch Caves and A 14-chamber cave surrounded by a beautiful garden.

Athenery Gardens CULTURAL TOURS

SCENIC YOU ARE LANDSCAPE

876-919-6056 or 876-779-7144

Moore Town

A Maroon settlement located 11 miles from Port Antonio.

Navy Island

A scenic spot in the bay, it was once an 18th century base for the British Royal Navy.

Information is subject to change without notice

HERE

Somerset Falls

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Voted as the Caribbean’s number 1 attraction by the World Travel Awards, it’s easy to understand why Dolphin Cove has become such a beloved place to visit. With locations in Montego Bay, Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa, and Puerto Seco Beach, it is the only place in Jamaica where you can swim with dolphins, interact with stingrays and even see sharks up close.

OCHO RIOS | MONTEGO BAY Moon Palace | Puerto Seco

JAMAICA For Reservations: Call: (876) 974-5335 Fax: (876) 974-9208

Yaaman Adventure Park offers a truly unique experience for nature lovers, adrenaline junkies, history buffs, foodies and everything in between. With an extensive list of activities to choose from, the park promises fun and excitement for the entire family!

If you desire a unique escapade, you can explore the Secret River then hitch a ride on a Camel and explore Yaaman Park´s natural jewels.

If you prefer to sample the intricate flavours of Jamaica, then the 2-hour culinary tour is right up your alley. Learn about Yaaman’s secret ingredients and get ready to prepare your own ‘Jamaica Flare.’

Travel back in time as you explore the 1,000 acre property in a tractor drawn open-air carriage.

You will adore the astonishing

view of the island while hearing stories about this 18th Century estate and its rich and colourful history. Stop to sip coconuts, and taste tropical fruits as you discover their medicinal secrets.

Meanwhile, nature lovers will be enamoured by the exotic and local birds as they wander through the spectacular Bird Aviary. This tropical paradise undoubtedly will take your breath away with its rustic charm and natural setting.

ST. MARY YOU ARE

HERE

T

he parish of St. Mary holds a special charm, but you have to seek it out. Uncharted adventures lie beyond the hidden valleys, tucked away among a web of backroads 56 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Blue Hole

behind thick tropical woodland, at the top of a remote hill, at the end of a lonely road or the edge of a craggy cliff. Here you will discover some of the island’s most spectacular vistas.

Located on the north-western part of the island, St. Mary has an interesting and varied coastline with many deep bays and coves with tiny ribbons of sandy beaches, as well as promontories with rocky cliffs, overlooking tiny offshore islands. Hemmed in by forests

ST. MARY

Oracabessa

and woodlands the major towns hug the coastal strip including Oracabessa, Annotto Bay, Robin’s Bay, Rio Nuevo, Boscobel and the capital, Port Maria.

Port Maria

The parish has a fascinating history: it was where the final, decisive battle between the Spanish and British was fought in Rio Nuevo in 1658, which was to seal the fate of the island under British colonial rule. It was once a wealthy parish, and became the largest producer of banana on the island. It also produced coconuts, cocoa, citrus and spices.

The laid-back charm of the parish has always attracted the wealthy, the celebrated, the famous, and over the years has carved a niche for itself as a place of unique hideaways.

River’s Lodge

A cast of interesting and colourful characters fell under the spell of St. Mary: English playwright Noel Coward, stumbled upon beautiful Firefly; novelist Ian Fleming, creator of the James Bond legend, found Golden Eye; and Sir Howard Mitchel happened upon Prospect Plantation. While celebrities holidayed, and the hippies and Coptics drifted in and out, the parish lured the creative spirits, local and foreign painters, sculptors, potters and craft-makers who stayed and settled in the parish.

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N

FIREFLY

oel Coward rose to fame in the 1930s, travelling the world to become the playboy of theatre and Broadway. He wrote over fifty plays and composed over 300 songs. He came to Jamaica in 1948 to recuperate from the flu - the island was therapeutic for mind and soul, and the perfect getaway from dull, gray postwar England. He soon fell under the spell of the peaceful parish of St. Mary.

His first home was Blue Harbour, located on a winding coastal road, where he threw lavish parties and entertained movie stars and royalty.

He later came upon a property on a hill overlooking Port Maria and Cabarita Island. He named it Firefly, it was the perfect place for the Bohemian lifestyle of a flamboyant gay bachelor, and he spent his days writing, composing and painting. He was buried there, with no fuss ‘his heart at peace under a Jamaican heaven.’ A life-size sculpture of a relaxed Coward, sitting on a bench, is placed at his favourite spot where he would watch the sun set.

876-997-7201 58 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

I

GOLDEN EYE

n 1943 Ian Fleming visited Jamaica to attend a naval conference and fell in love with the island. He vowed to return, and did so in 1946, purchasing an old donkey racetrack in the sleepy village of Oracabessa.

He would spend winters there, and was married in Port Maria. It was where he wrote one of his greatest spy novels Casino Royale, introducing the world to special agent 007. He wrote thirteen James Bond novels, which have sold millions of copies and have been translated into over twenty languages. The legendary James Bond movies would become blockbusters, and several were filmed on the island. Fleming claimed that James Bond would not have been born had he not been living in ‘the gorgeous vacuum of a Jamaican holiday.’

Today, Golden Eye has been transformed into an exclusive luxury resort, with its own offshore island, Santa Maria.

876-622-9007

BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Blue Hole

Off-the-beaten-track, it’s a small secret blue hole and waterfall in Labyrinth, a popular spot for locals.

James Bond Beach

Popular local beach for swimming and hosting major music concerts and beach parties.

876-726-1630

Reggae Beach 876-443-7077

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

HISTORIC SITES

Located on the border of St. Ann, local vibe with white sand beach.

Robin’s Bay

Along a ragged coastline, dotted with fishing boats, Robin’s Bay is a side of Jamaica rarely seen. Here it’s a roots culture, and life is simple and unhurried. There are scattered settlements of small farmers, fishermen and Rasta communities. For those seeking eco-adventures there are rustic-style lodgings, such as River Lodge and Strawberry Fields. You can take herbal walks, bush hikes, swim in the sea or trek to hidden waterfalls.

Tacky Falls

A remote, yet spectacular waterfall that plunges 70ft over huge boulders into a deep blue hole.

Cabarita Island

A curious little island in the centre of Shark Bay. Sometimes called Treasure Island. Comprises seven acres, with steps leading up to a plateau.

Agualta Vale Ruins

One of the largest estates in St. Mary, now in ruin.

Fort Haldane

The historic fort is located on a hill behind the court house, there are still a few mounted cannons.

Galina Lighthouse

On a lonely, windy, rocky headland on the most northerly part of the island.

Harmony Hall

Beautifully restored historic Jamaican house, with an art and craft gallery and restaurant.

876-974-4222

Fort Haldane

Harmony Hall

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HISTORIC SITES

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Old Spanish Bridge

Stone bridge, over the White River on the border of St. Ann and St. Mary, built in the late 17th Century.

Port Maria walkabout Several historic public buildings including the old courthouse,

with church and graveyard across the road on the seaside.

Rio Nuevo Battle Site The site of the last, decisive battle between the British and 876-972-2191

Spanish in 1658.

Scots Hall

Only Maroon town in the parish, located in the hills beyond Castleton.

Brimmer Hall

Tour of the great house, and plantation growing coconuts and fruits.

876-974-2244 CULTURAL TOURS

Prospect Plantation 876-994-1508

Tours of the plantation and great house. There are secret gardens, an aviary and butterfly farm all with spectacular views of the White River gorge. You can feed ostriches, go camel-riding or horse-riding.

Sun Valley Plantation A working plantation and botanical farm.

876-995-3075

Chukka Caribbean White River Valley tour is a thrilling 3-mile river-tubing and zip Adventures lining tour. There are picnic areas and recreational activities.

876-972-2506 ADVENTURE TOURS

Skydive Jamaica 876-467-6626

Castleton Gardens 876-942-0717 ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

Jump from an airplane and freefall 12,500, then glide with your parachute to a safe landing. The Centre operates out of the Boscobel aerodrome.

Established in 1862 the gardens border the parish of Kingston, and the Wag River runs through the property.

Make a day of it – you can have a guided nature tour, swim in the river, see the ornamental fish ponds as well as the many species of trees and plants. There are several eateries on the property that offer traditional Jamaican dishes, including the popular Janga soup!

Information is subject to change without notice

Old Spanish Bridge

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ULTR A

EAC H C L U B D EST

FUN F

more than just a

BEACH OPEN DAILY: 8:30 A.M.

LUXU RY B

5:00 P.M.

OR TH

I

IO T A N

N

Y! L I M A E E N TIR E F

키 elevated pool deck 키 Floating Water Park 키 watersports activities 키 restaurants, gift shop & much more!

ST. ANN YOU ARE

HERE

S

t. Ann is the largest parish, so it’s natural to expect that it would offer more….and it does! Located on the northern part of the island, the coastline stretches from Ocho Rios, 62 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

the tourist capital, through St. Ann’s Bay, Runaway Bay to Discovery Bay. Along this magnificent coastal route there are beautiful white sand beaches, spacious bays, and tiny coves with outbreaks of honeycomb cliffs and rocks.

‘Ochi’ as it is popularly known, developed rapidly from small villages in the 1970s to become the second most important resort destination in Jamaica. Turtle Beach, in the heart of the town, was created from

ST. ANN reclaimed land and soon saw the building of several large hotel chains along its shores. A large cruise ship pier was also built and receives the mega ocean liners throughout the week. On the outskirts of the town is the world-famous Dunn’s River, which really put Ochi on the map, as it is the top tourist attraction on the island.

Dunn’s River Falls

Moving east, St. Ann’s Bay which is the capital of the parish, is an interesting town of historic interest. It was here that Columbus landed on his first voyage to Jamaica in 1494, and was where he was marooned for a year on his 4th voyage. The first Spanish settlement New Seville is located in this area. St. Ann’s Bay also boasts a large harbour and port, shipping primarily banana and bauxite.

Travelling on to Runaway Bay you pass Green Grotto Cave (just one of over 60 inland and coastal caves in the parish).

A detour will take you to the mysterious Moneague Lake, a huge pond which is known to appear and disappear!

Discovery Bay is a beautiful crescent shaped bay with a clutch of high-end villas at one end, and the new Puerto Seco Beach resort in the middle, with the Discovery Bay Marine Lab on its eastern tip, overlooking a tiny Cay. St. Ann is often referred to as the ‘Garden Parish’ and if you look inland from the coast, as far as the eye can see, it’s lush and green with rolling hills and tropical vegetation. There are banana, coconut and sugar plantations, citrus orchards, vast pastureland with grazing cattle and several horsebreeding farms. The flatlands rise to the Dry Mountains at over 2,200ft. St. Ann is bauxite country, and in the back country the landscape is carved out, exposing the huge pits of distinctive red dirt.

Bamboo Blu

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In the hilly interior you will find many quaint, historic towns - scenic, winding routes through the countryside will take you to Alexandria, Browns Town, Claremont, Cave and Troy. You will also see old plantation ruins and several great houses - some beautifully restored and open for tours, and others are private residences.

There are historic forts, schools, churches, and public buildings. St. Ann is also where the first gaol was built on the island, and the first tavern.

The Great River runs along the border of the adjoining parish of St. Mary, and there are several other rivers, as well as numerous waterfalls that you can explore. The parish is the birth place of Marcus Garvey, Jamaica’s first National Hero, and reggae music icon, Bob Marley.

A

PUERTO SECO BEACH

n ultra-luxury beach club destination, the newly-designed Puerto Seco Beach is an elegant space. A resort, without accommodation, there’s no other beach club like it in Jamaica – and it’s impressive. Located in Discovery Bay, it sits on an expansive property with a 1,000 ft. white sand beach. There’s a floating ‘island’

64 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

water park, and you can enjoy all kinds of watersport including kayaking, snorkeling, deep-sea diving, paddle-boarding, as well as sailing, catamaran cruises and glass bottom boat rides.

ST. ANN

Beach-side you can choose to sit on the sand, lounge in a deck chair or shell out big bucks for a private cabana.

There are nine on the eastern end of the beach, and if you are planning to spend the day with family or friends, a luxury cabana might be well worth it.

There’s comfortable seating and hammocks, and it comes with its own butler, and coolers filled with drinks and snacks.

The spacious, ocean-front Santa Maria restaurant, adjoins the Picasso cocktail bar and open-air lounge and there is a pool bar and jerk eatery.

Plans are underway on the second level for a fine-dining restaurant, with floor-to-ceiling glass panels so you can take in the view; and there will be conference facilities. There’s also a gift shop.

The elevated pool deck, offers a panoramic view of the bay, and accommodates a 100 ft. fresh water pool, 5ft. deep with a tropical water feature in the middle. There’s a cute mini craft market with vendor stalls – you can buy souvenirs, ice-cream and even get a flash tattoo. Nearing completion is the small petting zoo and kiddie’s playground, and a swim and touch’ dolphin sanctuary.

Private Cabana

Guests can look forward to lively and varied entertainment on property, with games, music and cultural events. The award-winning venue caters to individuals, families as well as small and large groups, and caps off at 1300 people. It is already a popular destination for the throngs of cruise ship passengers, as well as local groups.

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ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Bamboo Blu

A hidden gem in Mammee Bay, it has an award-winning oceanfront restaurant with great food, and a private beach with crystal clear water. There are facilities and cabanas for rent.

876-974-9983 BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

Coyaba River and Falls A botanical garden and museum.

876-383-1281

Dunn’s River 876-974-4767

Konoko Falls 876-622-1712

Turtle River Falls

Jamaica’s major attraction, for locals and visitors. To see the waterfall in its true awesome splendor go there early morning, before the crowds arrive. It cascades 600ft down a series of falls to a small beach. If you are sure-footed you can climb the falls and swim in the natural pools.

Just outside Ochi, there’s a waterfall, ponds, streams, tropical gardens, aviary and orchid path. There is also a mini Taino museum, café and souvenir shop.

876-975-8418

Located in the hills of Ocho Rios, enjoy a fun-filled day at this nature attraction with its beautiful 12- tier waterfall, koi ponds and aviary.

Circle B Farm

Working plantation, crowned champion farm 17 times.

876-913-4511 ADVENTURE TOURS

Dolphin Cove 876-974-6555

Green Grotto Caves 876-973-2841

A marine attraction where you can interact with dolphins, stingrays and sharks. There is also a jungle trail path.

A show cave, close to Discovery Bay. It is 1,525 metres long and 12 metres deep, with a clear underwater lake.

Chukka Cove Ranch Equestrian centre with polo field. Hosts tournaments, and Polo Grounds show-jumping and other events.

HORSERIDING

876-972-2727

Columbus Park 876-286-3589

HISTORIC SITES

Edinburgh Castle

Ruins of the castle owned by the mad doctor, red-haired Scot Lewis Hutchinson, who was tried and hanged for luring visitors to his home and killing them…in the 18th Century!

New Seville

Located in St Ann’s Bay, it is an archaeological heritage site with a small museum.

876-972-2191

Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises 876-974-2446 CRUISES/ FISHING/ RAFTING

FOOD/ RESTAURANTS

Located off the highway, overlooking the bay, make a quick stop here – it is where Columbus first landed in Jamaica.

There are ruins and a small open-air museum.

Book a cruise: maybe snorkel offshore by Dunn’s River, opt for a romantic night dinner cruise or a wet and wild booze cruise. All are fun-filled excursions with plenty of food, drink and entertainment on board.

Faith’s Pen

A local pit stop on the side of the main road, it is lined with food vendors cooking on spot – jerk chicken and pork, roast yam, corn, cook-up saltfish.

Ocho Rios Fishing Village

A newly-completed upscale resort complex with restaurants and souvenir shops adjoining a small fishing beach.

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FOOD/ RESTAURANTS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Stush in the Bush

An organic farm in Bamboo, producing an array of gourmet condiments. Book a visit and tour the property and enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience.

876-562 9760 or 876-895-2276

Grizzly Plantation Cove

Home to the Conu’co Art & Craft Fair held several times throughout the year, and the reggae music festival, Rebel Salute, held in January – check online for upcoming events.

Island Village

A resort complex with shops and restaurants, and the Reggae Explosion music museum.

MUSIC/ ENTERTAINMENT 876-675-8895

SHOPPING

Cranbrook Flower Forest 876-770-8071

H’Evans Scent 876-427-4866

Mystic Mountain ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

876-618-1553

Shaw Park Gardens 876-974-2723

Mulit-level botanical garden with a waterfall located on 25-acres.

Rivva Rush Eco Adventure Park

Eco-water park in the White River Valley – there’s a beach, natural lake, floating aquatic park, multi-lane racer slides, obstacle course, and splash centre. There’s also boating and kayaking, and an aviary with exotic birds.

876-974-5335

Nine Miles 876-843-0498

Walkers Wood Factory Tour 876-917-2318

Runaway Bay Golf Course

Ocean front park offering dune buggy rides, horse riding, games, mud ATV adventures, camel rides, jitney tours, personal transporters, even cooking in the sea-view kitchen.

Take the pilgrimage to where reggae icon Bob Marley was born. He is buried in the mausoleum on the property.

Foodies will enjoy this hour-long factory tour of what started as a community, cottage-based industry producing local condiments, to become one of Jamaica’s iconic food brands.

18-hole championship golf course in Runaway Bay.

876-973-7319

Fern Gully

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

A thrilling tropical forest adventure – located 700ft above the heart of Ochi you can take the Sky Explorer chair-lift canopy tour, bob-sled through the rainforest on a gravity driven track, or buckle up and zipline over the forest.

There are gardens, infinity pool and waterslides, as well as a restaurant.

A tree-shaded public park in the Ocho Rios town centre with benches and gazebos. There are water features with koi fish and turtles, and a kiddie’s play area.

Yaaman Adventure Park

GOLF COURSES/ SPORTS

Adventure park offering high energy activities including ziplining and paint ball.

Turtle River Park

876-568-5247

CULTURAL TOURS

A tropical flower rain forest with exotic gardens and natural pools. Tours and hikes can be taken up to the river-head.

Take a leisurely drive through this scenic, winding gorge shaded by a canopy of centuries-old majestic trees and over 500 species of ferns. There are craft stalls along the route.

Information is subject to change without notice

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www.mysticmountain.com

(876) 618 -1553

www.mysticmountain.com

(876) 618 -1553

TRELAWNY YOU ARE

HERE

Cockpit Country

are strung out along the picturesque coast, as most of the parish is dominated by the highlands of the Cockpit Country, Jamaica’s most extensive wilderness area.

I

f you are a curious traveller, then Trelawny has to be the island’s most intriguing parish. Located on the north, it is one of the largest, yet least inhabited. The major towns 72 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Trelawny has a colourful and interesting history, with its roots far back in the past: It was once home to the Taino, the first Jamaicans; and later the Spanish invaders.

The first Maroons, escaped slaves of the Spanish, sought refuge in the dense, inaccessible forests of the Cockpit Country.

TRELAWNY When the British colonists arrived in 1655 they soon realized the grand open spaces of the lower plains were ideal for growing sugar cane, and Trelawny would come to have over 100 thriving sugar plantations, making it the richest parish in the island in the 18th Century. And the little town of Falmouth, with its wide harbour, would become known as the ‘El Dorado’ of Jamaica.

Fast forward to the present day… sugar is no longer King, most of the sugar estates have been abandoned, and almost all the great houses are in ruin. But if you are a cultural explorer you can ramble your way through the old estates with their sugar mills and aqueducts; go caving, hiking or birdwatching; stop at a roadside cook shop for some local food; visit historic towns where old traditions and cultures are remembered, including the free villages such as The Alps, Albert Town and Kettering; or seek out unusual places such as Wait-a-Bit, One Eye River, Ramgoat Cave and The Valley of the Painted Rock. Or you can take the curated tours of the few restored great houses and estates such as Good Hope and Hampden; or a walking tour of the town of Falmouth with its beautiful Georgian architecture.

Agriculture is the backbone of the parish and Trelawny is the food basket of Jamaica. Particularly known for producing yam, it is also known for producing fast runners – Olympians Usain Bolt, Ben Johnson and Veronica Campbell Brown –all attribute their athletic stamina to the Trelawny yam!

Rafting

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T

FALMOUTH

oday the old seaport town of Falmouth is overshadowed when the mega ocean liners dock in its new deepwater port. The focus is on the pier, and shuttling the cruise ship passengers to and from attractions around the island. But it is well-worth taking a walking tour of the town. Founded in 1774, compact and well-laid out on a grid, it made its fortune in sweet gold, sugar. It became a wealthy, fashionable and busy port, exporting sugar produced on the over one hundred plantations in the parish. Many of the wealthy estate owners, as well as merchants, built their grand mansions in the town – all were impressive Georgian-style buildings. Civic pride saw the building of the imposing court house, several churches, a military fort, warehouses, offices, town square, George and Albert Market, and the Phoenix Foundry.

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TRELAWNY

GOOD HOPE On a lonely backroad in the thickly wooded countryside of southern Trelawny, Good Hope is one of the island’s finest, most beautifully restored historic estate homes. The land was a gift to English Colonel, Thomas Williams, who built a modest house on the property in 1774. As he acquired his wealth it became a grand residence, renovated in part to welcome his son’s new wife (who died shortly after arriving from England, and was buried in a vault which now lies in the basement under the dining room). Several other owners expanded on the property, including John Tharp, who was the largest slave owner and landowner in Trelawny.

The main house has a Pallaladian-style entrance, exquisite wooden floors of wild orange and mahogany, several bedrooms, including a master suite with an 8ft lead lined bath tub – a novelty in its day! There are several other impressive stone buildings on the property and ruins of the old sugar works, as well as a river running through the estate.

Chukka Adventures (876-619-1441) has partnered with Good Hope and offers a variety of adventure activities and tours on the property. Well-known Jamaican ceramicist, David Pinto, also operates his studio in one of the old buildings on the property and hosts classes, workshops and tours.

COCKPIT COUNTRY

There are two views of Cockpit Country from above and up close – both are incredible.

Flying over it is an endless expanse of thousands of uniform, densely-forested hillocks; On foot it’s even more daunting and overwhelming - with seemingly impenetrable foliage, huge trees, steep ravines, dark caves, disappearing streams, bubbling springs, deep sink holes, secret waterfalls and breathtaking cliffs.

Splendidly contained, only a few roads penetrate the area, and it is mostly uninhabited and unexplored. A rugged natural paradise, Cockpit Country became a refuge for the first Maroons, runaway slaves of the Spanish settlers, and for a while it was a safe haven for the slaves who were able to escape working on the sugar plantations during the oppressive British colonial period.

A nature’s paradise, it is where you will find hundreds of endemic plants, animals and birds including the rare yellow-tail butterfly, with a wing span of six inches, and the Jamaican boa and yellow snake.

Although sparsely populated there are some sixty-six small communities that live in the area, and there are several tour companies that work closely with the villagers to provide an authentic experience whether its hiking, caving, bird-watching, swimming, enjoying a bush cook out or learning about local heritage and culture.

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BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Burwood Beach

A perfect bay with soft sand and turquoise calm waters.

Dornoch Head

Located near Stewart Town it is the source of Rio Bueno, with a secret blue hole. There is a mysterious folk legend of the ‘Mermaid of the River’ that surround it.

Glistening Waters

Located in Oyster Bay, a natural phenomenon that comes to life at night when the Lagoon is illuminated by billions of micro-organisms that give off a glowing light when the water is disturbed. Take the 45-minute cruise that starts at sunset. There is also a restaurant and marina, offering boat tours and customized sport fishing charters.

876-954-3339

Martha Brae Rafting

ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

876-952-0889

Lay back and enjoy a lazy, hour-long, three-mile journey on a 30ft. bamboo raft along the placid, winding waters of the Martha Brae River.

Silver Sands Beach

A clean, quiet beach.

Jamaica Swamp Safari Village

Reptiles, mainly crocodiles (over 100), Jamaican boas and yellow snakes, monkeys, raccoons, bird aviary. A one-anda-half hour walking tour through the property with guided tour and demonstrations. Interact with juvenile croc’s and snakes. Watch them feed the crocodiles as they leap 5ft in the air!

876-617-2798

Chukka Adventure Park and Falls 876-972-2506 ADVENTURE TOURS

Cockpit Country Adventure Tours 876-393-6584 or 876-610-0815

Hampden Estate Rum Tour 876-482-4632

WATER SPORTS

Play for the day at the Good Hope Estate – 50ft cascade, 6 wading pools, 300ft. water slide, tubing, kayak river tour, zip line canopy, ATV, dune buggy, horse and carriage tour, great house tour, bird aviary, fishing ponds, kiddies centre and treasure hunt, suspended challenge course, Caribbean village with rum tavern, ice-cream parlour, café, and jerk hut.

Fantastic nature walks; bush hikes; geological tours and caving; talks with local farmers; learn about medicinal herbs; and bird-watching, Organized by the Southern Trelawny Environmental Agency (STEA) – all ages and all experience levels. Specialized tours and home-stays can be arranged.

Wear good walking shoes, carry water and mosquito spray!

Nestled in the Queen of Spain Valley, home of awardwinning Rum Fire and Hampden Gold rums. Two-hour tour of the distillery, estate and great house. Small groups.

Over 18-years-old. Enclosed footwear required.

Orange Valley Estate

An estate that dates back to 1678, it has imposing ruins of the plantation, including the old slave hospital and sugar works. Today it is a 2000-acre horse-breeding stud farm.

Kite Surfing

If you are into this thrilling watersport, this tour will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Bounty Bay near Burwood Beach. If you are experienced, you can rent the boards for the day, or have private or group lessons.

876-781-2190

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ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Falmouth Heritage Walks 876-407-2245

A great informative tour. Falmouth is pedestrian-friendly, you can walk through the town centre and back streets visiting places of interest in this unique historic town with its Georgian style architecture - tour churches, residences, and landmarks including the Albert and George Market, the clock tower, court house, Baptist manse, ruins of Barrett House, old post office, Water Square, the Foundry, Tharp House and much more…

Rio Bueno

A small, picturesque seaside town with interesting historic buildings, including the pretty blue church on the water’s edge.

David Pinto Pottery Studio

Jamaica Clays, the potter’s studio of well-known Jamaican ceramicist, David Pinto, Is located on the Good Hope Estate.

Classes and workshops are held.

Joe James Gallery

Located on the waterfront of Rio Bueno Bay, the entrance is secluded by the new highway. The Gallery features the work of artist Joe James. There is also the popular Lobster Bowl restaurant on the property.

HISTORIC SITES

ART/ SCULPTURE

876-954-0048

Falmouth Culinary Tours FOOD/ RESTAURANTS

Hague Agricultural Show CULTURAL TOURS

Held at the Hague show ground in February, the event showcases the best of Trelawny’s agriculture, livestock and products.

Trelawny Yam Festival A popular local event held in April, patrons can sample yam

in a variety of innovative and creative dishes and beverages.

Jamaica Cave Organization 876-347-5184

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

Works in collaboration with the Falmouth Heritage Walks.

Here you get to sample local cuisine on-the-go from streetside vendors, as well as restaurants and private homes.

Windsor Cave

If what you want is an easy visit to a ‘show’ cave, don’t contact them… they only carry out explorations for the serious, experienced caver. They also do strenuous hiking treks in the Cockpit Country – There are no set tours, but if you are interested, give them a call and see where their next expedition is heading!

A huge chamber, there are over thirteen species of bats - it is said if you stay ‘til dusk you will see hundreds of them flying out in a great cloud.

Information is subject to change without notice

David Pinto Potter

Good Hope Dining Room

st. james YOU ARE

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ocated on the northeast part of the island, the coastline of St. James is perhaps one of the shortest, but it’s white sand all the way, with some of the finest beaches

78 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Doctor’s Cave Beach

on the island. It’s not surprising that the capital, Montego Bay (referred to locally as Mo’ Bay), would earn the title ‘The Complete Resort.’ Montegonians have been in the tourist business for over a century, and they have perfected the art of island hospitality and know how to make sure visitors have a great vacation!

The city dominates the parish with resort developments taking up every inch of the coastline – mostly huge hotel chains, including the ever-popular all-inclusives - which are strung out along the ‘Elegant Corridor’ stretching from Rosehall and Ironshore to the Hip Strip, on Gloucester Avenue. This lively main street is a bustle of activity with a multitude of small shops, great restaurants and smaller hotels lining both sides. It is here you will find the world-famous Doctor’s Cave Beach, Jamaica’s most famous beach.

The city centre is the pulse of Mo Bay. Navigating through the maze of narrow roads, one ways and curbside vendors, you will find several places of historic, cultural and architectural interest including Sam Sharpe Square, National Gallery West, The Dome, The Cage and the beautiful parish church.

St. James offers world-class golf courses; great nightlife, entertainment and dining options; a full range of watersport activities; and a wide variety of attractions and tours - all within close proximity.

Mo Bay is the gateway to the north coast, with aninternational airport, and boasts one of the most beautiful harbours with a deep-water port which accommodates the large cruise-ships. In the middle of the bay, a cluster of interconnecting small islands and mangrove swampland were reclaimed to create a booming commercial hub and free-zone. There is also a huge state-of-the-art Convention Centre in the vicinity of Rosehall, which is host to major international trade shows and conferences.

Beyond the tourist capital residential developments are stretching into the low-lying hills and valleys. There are also several working plantations, orchards and farms; and beyond that, high in the forested mountains, you will find remote villages, including Maroon Town (settled by the first generation of runaway slaves in the 17th Century).

Rosehall Great House

| 79

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DESCRIPTION

Doctor’s Cave Beach

Fabulous beach, great facilities with the popular Sand Restaurant & Bar.

876-952-2566 BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

Marine Park 876-952-5619

The protected park covers an extensive coastal area, stretching into Hanover.

There are educational boat tours of the mangroves and reefs. Swimming and scuba diving is permitted in specially zoned areas.

Chukka Caribbean Adventures include exploring a picturesque 2000-acre Adventure Tour estate with a 17th Century great house, sugar works, river and ADVENTURE TOURS

876-979-6599

waterfall. Also hiking, swimming, zip lining and ATV safari.

Croydon in the Mountains

Located near Catadupa, tour a working plantation producing pineapples, citrus and coffee.

876-979-8267

Aqua Sol Theme Park Go cart racing, boat rides, jet ski, water trampoline.

876-979-9447 ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

Ras Natango Gallery and Garden 876-578-2582

Rocklands Bird Sanctuary 876-952-2009

Located near Anchovy, a must for nature lovers, you can hand-feed local and migratory birds in the tranquil gardens.

Maroon Town

Located in the remote mountains of the Cockpit Country, there are several tours that you can take to Maroon Town, home to the descendants of Jamaica’s first generation of slaves in the 17th Century.

Rastafarian Indigenous Village

The Rasta community opens its gate to visitors to experience the living heritage of this religious sect – music, reasonings, food and craft. (by appointment).

CULTURAL TOURS

876-285-4750 or 876-383 9068

Gallery of West Indian Art 876-952-4547 ART/ SCULPTURE

Garden tour, birdwatching; artist’s studio and gallery, craft and collectibles.

Montego Bay Cultural Centre 876-940-6402

SHOPPING

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Located on Fairfield Road. Great collection of local art and craft.

Located in Sam Sharpe Square you can visit the Sam Sharpe Freedom Monument, honouring one of Jamaica’s national heroes who led the Rebellion of 1831; National Gallery West and National Museum West; and The Cage built in 1806 as a temporary lock-up for slaves, disorderly sailors and vagrants.

Shoppes of Rosehall and Witter Village on the Elegant Corridor with specialty boutiques, in-bond shopping, dining and entertainment. There is also the Half Moon Shopping Village, Hip Strip as well as several malls and craft markets in the city centre.

HISTORIC SITES

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Belevedere 876-956-4710

Near Chester Castle, a 1000-acre working plantation, great house and sugar works.

Bellefield Great House

Tour of historic plantation and great house. Restaurant on property.

876-952-2382

Greenwood Great House 876- 953-1077

Historic City Tour

Walkabout: you will see historic landmarks including the beautiful Parish Church with its bell tower, built 1775; opposite is the red-brick, Georgian-style Townhouse at 16 Church Street; The Slave Ring on East Street, the site of a slave market; The Dome on Creek Street, a domed brick structure erected over the river head to protect the town’s water supply; Fort Montego built in 1837, ruins are located on a hill overlooking the harbour.

MoBay Kotch Hostel

Located in the heart of the city, ‘The Town house’ is a fine example of 18th Century Georgian architecture. Once belonging to a wealthy merchant, it has been restored and refurbished as a hostel for visitors.

Rosehall Great House

Built 1760 – a fascinating tour of Jamaica’s most famous great house. Check out Chukka Cove’s ‘Flight of the White Witch’ Tour.

876-953-2323

Hip Strip

Take a stroll on the 1.5-mile tree-lined strip on Gloucester Avenue – souvenir shops, duty-free stores, restaurants, cafes, several hotels – and the entrance to the Doctor’s Cave Beach.

Lounge 2727

Island Strains, the first medical ganja house, is located on the Hip Strip. There’s a smoker’s lounge, medical consultation room and seaside deck and bar.

MUSIC/ ENTERTAINMENT

GOLF COURSES/ SPORTS

East of Mo’ Bay, guided tour. Interesting collection of antiques, musical instruments, and slavery artifacts.

There are several, world-famous championship golf courses in the parish including Rosehall, Cinnamon Hill and Half Moon.

Information is subject to change without notice

Mo Bay Kotch Hostel

Montego Bay Convention Centre

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ID REQUIRED

hanover YOU ARE

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ocated on the northwest end of the island, Hanover is the smallest parish, and one of the most picturesque. Major towns are located mainly along the coast,

84 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Luxury High End Villa

stretching from Orange Bay to Hopewell, with isolated towns in the hilly interior.

There are several beaches, bays and sandy coves, and it shares part of the Great Morass with the neighbouring parish of Westmoreland. Negril’s famous 7-mile beach extends into Hanover, where it is separated from Bloody Bay by the large promontory at Rutland Point. It was here that the notorious pirate Calico Jack

HANOVER was captured in 1720, along with his female companions, Mary Reed and Anne Bonney.

The Bay, which gets its name from the butchering of whales in its waters centuries ago, overlooks the tiny offshore island of Booby Cay. The Great River is the boundary between Hanover and St. James. There are several waterfalls in the parish, including Paradise, Kemshot and Dry Hill. Mosquito Cove is one of the largest and deepest coves and extends nearly three-quarter miles inland; another pretty, but smaller cove is Anglin Cove.

There were several large estates in the parish, growing mainly sugar cane and coconut, among them is Kenilworth. Now in ruin, it is said to be the finest example of 18th Century industrial architecture with its stone and brick sugar works. The parish was also known for its many spice groves, mainly pimento.

In the 1950s Hanover developed a reputation for being a playground of the rich and famous, with several exclusive hotels including Round Hill, the first luxury cottage-style resort (which initially only opened during the winter season); and Tryall, a sub-division of high-end private villas with a world-famous championship golf course. Throughout the parish, coast and hills, the landscape is dotted with fabulous villas.

Lucea, prettily placed on the western side of the mile wide, land-locked harbour is the capital of the parish. Located close together on the promontory are: Fort Charlotte with its cannons; a clock tower; a school, built on the old barracks; and the parish church with marble sculptures. There are also some interesting timber-columned merchant houses and an old Jewish burial ground.

and gallery Roadside studio ns he ep of Sylvester St

There are many routes off-the-beaten-track that offer scenic views and historic landmarks.

You will pass through straggling villages and towns: on the coast places such as Orange Bay, Green Island, Sandy Bay and Hopewell; and in the mountains Cascade, Shettlewood, and Chester Castle.

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HISTORIC SITES

ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Blenheim

Birthplace of founding father Sir Alexander Bustamante, who became Jamaica’s first Prime Minister and a National Hero. The house is restored and has a museum.

Fort Charlotte

On a peninsula at the mouth of Lucea harbour, it was built in 1746. It has an artillery store and guns still standing, and a section of the Fort forms part of the Rusea High School.

Tryall Water Wheel

Located on the Tryall estate, the waterwheel once scooped up hundreds of gallons of water from the Flint River by aqueducts and stone gutters. Also on site are ruins of the old brick chimney stack. The original sugar works were destroyed in the Sam Sharpe Rebellion in 1832.

Animal Farm and Sanctuary

Located in Copse, a 6-acre animal sanctuary with mainly farm animals and birds.

876-299-9360

Chukka Caribbean Located at Sandy Bay. Horseback Ride and Swim, dune Adventures buggy, rugged ATV. 867-972-2506

Kool Runnings Water Park 876-957-5400

Located in Hanover, but very close to Negril, it is a waterpark with various activities including go-kart racing, kayaking and paintball.

Information is subject to change without notice

Chukka Caribbean Adventures

Tryall Water Wheel

Tryall Club Golf

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westmore Belmont

YOU ARE

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hances are if you are heading to Westmoreland, your destination is the tourist mecca, Negril, located on the western tip of the island. But before you go to the

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famous seven-mile beach to bask in the sun, you should go out and explore other parts of the parish. Westmoreland is the most westerly parish and one of the most beautiful with postcard pretty scenery. If you follow the coastline right around from Whitehouse to the west end of Negril, it rises and falls, encompassing long stretches of pristine white sandy beaches and tiny coves with calm azure

WESTMORELAND waters; high wooded promontories that jut out into the sea; and steep craggy cliffs with rolling surf far below. If you venture inland, the backroads take you through sugar country, vast agricultural plains that were once home to over sixty thriving sugar plantations. Surrounding these flat lands are low-lying hills and dense forests. Here you will discover hidden springs, waterfalls and blue holes. In the west, crossing over into the adjoining parish of Hanover, is the Great Morass, a two-mile belt of swampland lying just inland of the beaches.

land

The parish is of great historic interest: There is Oristano, which was one of the earliest Spanish settlements before the British invasion of 1655, and where world-famous naturalist, Phillip Henry Gosse (who invented the marine aquarium) sojourned to write his many books. There are several old estates including Paradise, with the Sweet River running through (so named because its waters are sweet and crystal clear!) Shafton great house, and the Ackendown ruins. The parish also has a unique heritage – it has a large population of East Indians who are descendants of indentured workers who came to the island in 1845; and it is also home to an historic 19th Century settlement of German immigrants.

Savannah la Mar, known locally as simply ‘Sav,’ is the capital of the parish. A bustling rural town that has developed along a single road, it ends abruptly at the coast.

Here there are a few architectural gems, including ruins of the old fort, historic school, and cast-iron fountain. And there is of course Negril, the sunset side of the island, which the hippies discovered in the early 1960s.

The Westmoreland coastline, fringed by reefs, offers some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. You can search for sunken galleons, explore underwater caves, take night dives, go cruising, deep-sea fishing, wind-surf and parasailing.

Negril’s 7 Mile Beac

h

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MOUNT TAMBRIN

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ount Tambrin is an isolated wilderness retreat and creative space in the hills of Westmoreland. It is part of the old Caledonia plantation, the great house has long since been demolished, and the Retreat is built around the ruins of some of the out-buildings on the estate.

Comprising six acres, it is an interesting and unusual space that welcomes the creative individual, and lovers of the arts and nature.

There are several guest rooms that open out onto a long, narrow wooden verandah with a fantastic view, there are chairs and hammocks, and a series of beautifully handcarved and painted cedar door panels. The gardens are wild and stunning, with a variety of trees, exotic plants and tropical flowers.

There is a 25ft high stone tower with a spiral staircase that leads to the top look-out.

Abstract art installations and larger-than life sculptures in wood, stone and cement are everywhere, mostly erotic works of male nudes, and some female figures. There is a large theatre with a balcony level and a small stage, where musical concerts, mainly classical, are staged, as well as cultural events. There is a resident artist and sculptor on property and a woodwork/art studio.

There are also a few very private cottages on the property, and there is a communal dining room and kitchen.

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SEAFORD TOWN

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few small German settlements in remote areas across the island were established in the mid 1800’s as part of a grand scheme to create white labouring communities of farmers and artisans.

The most well-known is Seaford Town (also known as German Town), is located in Westmoreland.

In 1845 a group of 800 German immigrants were lured to the island on a false promise of work and houses. When they arrived they were left to fend for themselves.

Eventually they carved out a life of isolation, creating Seaford Town.

Today the population has dwindled but it is worth a visit with its small homesteads, church and museum.

BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Bluefield’s Beach

A beautiful stretch of white sand beach, with facilities.

Blue Hole 876-860-8805

Located in Little Bay, a ladder leads into a cavernous natural swimming hole with underwater caves.

Mayfield Falls

In the heart of the Dolphin Head Mountains, there are 21 small cascades, nature walks, caves and hiking.

876-971-6580

Rick’s Café MUSIC/ ENTERTAINMENT

876-957-0380

Negril Lighthouse 876-957-4052

The legendary Rick’s Café for stunning sunsets, cliff jumping and tropical cocktails.

Built in 1894, it is 66ft high with 103 steps. Located on the tip of the West End of Negril, it offers a bird’s eye view of the coast.

Peter Tosh Mausoleum Westmoreland is the parish where Peter Tosh was born, 876-334-0279

one of the original Wailers who rose to fame with Bob Marley in the 1970s, The decorated mausoleum honours the musical legend.

Paradise Park

18th Century private cattle and dairy working farm of 1,000-acres. Mangroves, Sweet River running through, white sandy bay. Tours, horse-riding, and swimming.

HISTORIC SITES 876-999 5771 or 876-995-2675 ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

Royal Palm Reserve 876- 364-7407

The Great Morass wildlife sanctuary, a 10-mile swamp journey.

Rhodes Hall Plantation

Nature trail, mineral spring, beach, cave tour and horseback riding on a 600-acre 18th Century estate.

876-957-6422

Scots Cove

Roadside stop for crayfish ‘janga’, boiled, seasoned and bagged.

Jamaica Giants

Located in Moreland Hill, a 1,000-acre property with nature trails, sculpture park and art gallery.

FOOD/ RESTAURANTS 876-597-5736 ART/ SCULPTURE

Information is subject to change without notice

Negril’s Cliffs

| FEATURE

My

NEGRIL Boardwalk Village, Negril

as well as overseas visitors wanting to see Jamaica like the locals do. That is exactly what I did and continue to do with TRODDR.com.

I

Nicolette Woolery

am Nicolette Woolery, a certified marketer turned travel blogger, photographer and general content creator.

In the summer of 2012, I decided that I would start a website, that would encourage Jamaicans to vacation locally, by telling them where to go, what to see and my favourite, where to eat. This later turned into me wanting Caribbean nationals to travel regionally, exploring their own islands and their island neighbours, 92 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Negril, is not only home to beautiful white sand beaches and all-inclusive hotels, it is also my home and one of my favourite places to explore. Growing up in Negril meant going to the beach on weekends and indulging in whatever watersport activities my inability to swim would allow me. Jet-skiing, paddle boarding, parasailing, fishing, jumping on boats to explore Boobie Cay and watching my friends dive off the cliffs at Rick’s Cafe are only a few of the things to do in my hometown.

Negril and its surrounding communities have some of the best street food. The conch man, just outside of Sav-la-Mar, Smokey Joe’s jerk chicken on The Strip and fried chicken or curried conch from Corner Bar on the West End are my favourite places to get street food in Negril.

T Conch and roti from Streetlight Restaurant just outside of Sav-la-Mar

Staying the night? Beautiful villas perfectly perched on the cliffs offer fabulous ocean views, and you can take a stroll on the beach or go for an early morning swim in the sea.

On the West End, Rock House Hotel and The Cliff Hotel are two stunning properties that many have on their bucket list. There’s Skylark on the beach, at one of Negril’s newest properties, or you can head to Coco La Palm for a budgeted stay.

View from the Negril Craft Market Bridge

TRODDR

www.troddr.com contact.troddr@gmail.com

here are many options for dining; Kuyaba’s lobster casino, seafood linguine, and shrimp run-down served in a papaya canoe; escovitch fish and the seafood platter at Push Cart Restaurant; and the seafood pasta from Rock House Restaurant are my personal favourites. If you’re looking for delicious seafood, these are definitely places to visit.

ct getaway iff Hotel, the perfe The sunset at the Cl From November - April, it gets a bit busy and hotels become more expensive. Regardless of the time of year, Negril itself is truly an escape with great weather, all year round. The Cliff Hotel is a beautiful getaway and has some of the best sunset views in Negril. While Rick’s Cafe is one of the most popular sunset spots, Sir D’s FireWater LoveNest is a nice, serene spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a cold drink.

If you’re looking for nightlife in Negril, there’s Kenny’s Italian Cafe and Club Ville at Margaritaville are the Friday night go-to places. Margaritaville, Negril and Boardwalk Village are the best public beach areas. What else is there to do? If you’re looking for adventure, scuba diving, snorkeling or even hopping on a glass bottom boat will give you the opportunity to see Negril from a different view. Kool Runnings Adventure and Water Park, Jamwest Speedway and Adventure Park and Chukka Caribbean Adventures are two places outside of Negril to really have some fun. What not to do? Don’t huddle up in your hotel room and not enjoy the sea, sand, sun and food in beautiful Negril.

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| FEATURE

Negril and Jamaica’s MUST Experience Excursion!

JAMWEST MOTORSPORTS AND ADVENTURE PARK is the newest and most comprehensive adventure and attraction location just on the outskirts of Negril buzzing on the lips of tourists and locals alike.

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T

he 300-plus acre eco-tourism attraction, just shy of three years old, is fast becoming the hub for fun. You can soar through the air on zip-lines,take a wild ride on an ATV, experience a safari trail, or do horseback riding along a remote beach.

“It is one of the must-see locations if you are here in Jamaica, because it is one property that has so much to offer,” commented Shyian Gordon, Managing Director, “guests who visit always talk about the ATV, the magical rides on the horses, [and] the thrill of racing on our signature racing zip-lines…”

“Another remarkable thing for visitors is the fact that they can experience our mineral bath - a complete natural spring with various natural properties; the beauty of our petting zoo and aviary; as well as rock-climbing, the gushing waterslide and pool. There is absolutely something for everyone here!”

The property is also home to the famed Jamwest Speedway. The longest in the Caribbean, it hosts several local and international meets, and has even attracted international actor, Tyrese Gibson of the movie, Fast and Furious.

If you’re looking for adventure this is the place to be. You even have a chance to tick from your bucket the desire to drive an actual race-car with their ‘Arrive & Drive Driving Experience’ along the longest speedway in the Caribbean. It’s a unique experience.

With so much to do in one location no wonder Jamwest Motorsports & Adventure Park has earned the recognition of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourism Association (JHTA) ‘Best Attraction Award’ twice since opening, and two TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. Whether you’re visiting Jamaica as a family or group, for a birthday or wedding, or just for the adventure, you owe yourself a visit to Jamwest Adventure Park.

876-957-4474 OR 876-475-7588 Old Hope, Little London, Westmoreland www.jamwest.com

ST. ELIZABE Holland Bamboo

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vast parish, ‘St. Bess’ stretches from the far reaches of the Cockpit Country across mountains and valleys, through swampland and dry savannas, over

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the majestic Santa Cruz range to rocky cliffs and ribbons of sandy beach. It offers the traveller a panoramic sweep of some of the most spectacular scenery in Jamaica. There are places of incredible natural beauty: Lover’s Leap, will take your breath away as you look over a sheer drop of 1600ft; the thunderous cascades at YS Falls will mesmerize you; and the two-anda-half-mile archway of towering bamboo

ST. ELIZABETH along Bamboo Avenue will fascinate you.

Dominating the landscape is Black River, the second longest river in the island, it snakes its way across the Great Morass to the coast.

Heartily agricultural, in St. Elizabeth the red dirt covers everything from the knee down. Neat farms dot the landscape as far as the eye can see, and everyone has a pretty garden with lawns of skellion! Here melon vines thrive, and nowhere will you find sweeter carrots or juicier tomatoes!

There are interesting historic towns including the capital, Black River. Once a prosperous seaside town there are still a few beautifully restored Victorianstyle houses standing along the scenic waterfront promenade.

TH

Historic Black Ri

Black River Prome Lover’s Leap

ver

nade

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YS FALLS

O

ne of the island’s most beautiful spots, this spectacular waterfall is tucked away on a privatelyowned 2,000-acre estate that raises cattle and breeds thoroughbred horses. A jitney takes you on a dirt road through rolling pastures with stands of centuries-old huge guango and cotton trees. You can hear the Falls before you see them, a thunderous sound as the water descends, cascade after cascade. There are seven magnificent tiers, and each has a natural wading pool of icy cold water to dip in. YS is the shortest place name in Jamaica.

Originally comprising 8,000 acres, ownership dates back to 1684, but the property fell into bankruptcy in 1882.

It was purchased some five years later, site unseen, by the current owner’s great-great uncle, and has been in the family ever since. Developed as an attraction in 1980, there are three pools, one fed by a spring, and a zip line that runs high above the Falls.

There is also a restaurant and gift shop, kiddies play area and picnic tables.

876-997-6360

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ST. ELIZABETH

LOVER’S LEAP

F

rom the dizzying height at Yardley Chase it is a breath-taking view: it’s a sheer drop, 1600ft. to the craggy shoreline of Cutlass Bay far below, and if you look straight ahead it is a magnificent uninterrupted expanse of deep blue sea. There is a three-mile trail that leads down to the bay, but it’s a long, steep and arduous trek. You might just prefer to stand and stare out at this wonder of nature and take in the cool sea and mountain breeze, while watching the

birds soar overhead. It used to be the site of an old plantation and there is a lighthouse on the property. There are many legends that surround the place, the most popular is the story of two slaves who were lovers, forbidden to marry they ran away together and plunged to their deaths over the cliffs.

There is a great restaurant and bar, and visitors can sit and enjoy the view on the wooden deck or in the gazebos in the garden.

876-965-6577

PELICAN BAR

A

n interesting spot to visit is Pelican Bar, one of the most unusual beach bars in the Caribbean. It is located a mile out in the ocean just off Parrotee Bay and sits on a sandbar, surrounded by shallow water. Constructed out of driftwood, coconut tree trunks and thatch, it was built by local fisherman Floyd,

initially as a mid-ocean hang-out spot for himself and other fishermen coming in from a day’s fishing. Here you can relax and enjoy seafood and drinks and take a dip in the ocean. You may even spot stingrays and dolphins. Spend only the morning, or stay to watch the sunset.

876-354-4218

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BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Treasure Beach

A laid-back seaside town, there are four scenic bays – you can walk around, find a beach to spend the day, and have a meal or a drink at any of the roadside restaurants or bars.

Font Hill Beach 876-354 4218

Just 15 minutes from Black River, it is a wildlife reserve, there is a beach with facilities for visitors. Protected by a reef it is great for snorkeling.

Joy Spence Appleton An interesting rum tour of the 260-year-old sugar estate Estate Rum Experience located in Siloah. Learn about the history of the estate, ADVENTURE TOURS

876-963-9215-7

watch demos of aging and blending, and taste the different rums along the way.

J. Charles Swaby’s Black River Safari

An exciting one-and-a-half hour boat ride on the Black River, exploring the scenic wetlands along the south coast in search of the main attraction – the crocodile.

876-965-2513

Dessert Sea Picnic CRUISES/ FISHING/ RAFTING

876-434-3779 or 876-965-3084

Accompong Maroon Village

Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is the home of the Maroons, whose ancestors date back to the 17th Century. Private tours can be arranged, and you can visit the settlement and learn all about the Maroon heritage.

Maroon Day is a major event, celebrated on January 6.

Jamaica Zoo

Located in Lacovia, it is home to lions, born in St. Elizabeth, as well as llamas, zebras, monkeys, crocodiles, toucans, pythons, and iguanas. There are donkey rides, a petting area, children’s playground and a picnic area in the landscaped gardens.

CULTURAL TOURS

876-435-9999 ADVENTURE PARKS / GARDENS

HISTORIC SITES

Go on a fishing trip with sea captain Dennis Abrahams – sail along the coast then picnic on a secluded beach where he prepares your catch of the day.

Black River Heritage Tour

Take a walking tour along the waterfront of this once wealthy logging and shipping town. You will see several historic buildings of architectural interest in the Victorian and Georgian style.

Holland Bamboo

A scenic two-and-a-half-mile drive under a serene green canopy of tall thick bamboo.

There are great photo ops’ along the way and you can stop off and buy fresh coconut water, fruits and snacks from vendors along the route.

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

Information is subject to change without notice

100 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

Jakes Hotel

| FEATURE

My

treasure beach

I

Tomasz Lada

arrived in Jamaica for the first time in January 2005 and it wasn’t a planned trip. After nearly five years of banking work in Poland, I decided to take a few months off and went to the United States to visit my uncle, who has been to Jamaica many times before.

In the States, I came across a very harsh winter and after two months I was really tired of the snow, frost, cold apartment and the U.S., in general.

102 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

My uncle was feeling the same way, and one day just said “I am done with the winter, for me it’s time to go to Jamaica, do you want to go with me?” There could be only one answer to this question and a couple days later I bought my first flight ticket to Jamaica. After arriving in Montego Bay we went straight to this charming fishermen’s village, Treasure Beach, on the south coast in St. Elizabeth. I spent five amazing weeks. At that time I didn’t know that the trip was going to change my life. Treasure Beach was my love at first sight. It is now my sweet home. I live here and run my business which promotes Jamaica and specifically Treasure Beach, as a tourist destination.

What’s the one thing every visitor to Treasure Beach should experience?

Everybody should catch a vibes of the Treasure Beach community, just come and spend a couple of days with the local people. You will have fun and a real

Jamaican experience just hanging around with people, without a plan, just making new friends. People will help you, entertain you, look after you and have fun with you, no matter if you are Jamaican, Polish or whoever.

There are a lot of tourist attractions, here and around, but what I love the most about Treasure Beach is the community.

Share a secret about Treasure Beach?

This is the most peaceful, safe and friendly place in entire Jamaica. This is a paradise.

Best places to eat?

Junior is my friend and he sells fruits and vegetables, and sometimes he cooks the best jerk fish in the traditional Jamaican way. He does not cook every day, but it is worth the wait for the right time. For every day eating I go to Dinner’s Delight, for good traditional Jamaican food.

There is also a small place called Blessed Shop. It is not really a restaurant, just a bar with Red Stripe, drinks and lovely people to talk to.

The only meal you can buy there is escovitch fish. I love the barracuda fish that they fry. If we are talking about restaurants, my favorite place is Lobster Pot at Great Bay, the best lobster I’ve ever had in my life. For a varied menu, I love the famous Jack Sprat Restaurant, it offers one of the most beautiful views and the meals are delicious.

the Bird’s eye view of

Bay

a high standard of rooms and service for a very good price. Right on the beach you will find Kathama Cottage which also is highly recommended; and for the lower budget people I really love to work with Coconut Cottage and Golden Sand. For high standard with high prices I definitely like the famous Jake’s Hotel.

Favourite beach?

We have four main beaches which make up Treasure Beach, and a couple of lovely smaller ones. I love all of them, but my favorite is Frenchman’s Bay where I live and spend most of my time. Here I have most of my friends, business partners and customers. If you need to escape or be alone, take a walk from Calabash Bay to Great Bay and you will find the wild beaches along the coast, peaceful and quiet, just for you.

Best places to stay?

Best attraction?

One of my favourite is Treasure Beach Hotel. It is right on the beach, with beautiful gardens full of flowers and one of the most amazing views from the guest rooms. I also like Lashing Villas where you have

We take a boat from Treasure Beach, with up to 10 to 15 people, through the Caribbean Sea to Black River. It takes about 40 minutes, on the way you can admire the beauty of the south coast and if you are lucky you will see dolphins! As soon as we reach Black River, 2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 103

we can start to look for the crocodiles which are always there in the wild. About 30 minutes ride up the river, we reach Vine Yard, a nice spot with a place to swim and jump from the trees into the river, relax under coconut trees, and drink some Red Stripe in a local bar.

After our Black River Safari, on the way back to Treasure Beach we stop at the famous, original place, Pelican Bar. It’s a bar in the middle of the sea - the only way to get there is by boat. After hanging out there we head back – it’s great fun, with the boat speeding across the water riding the waves.

e South Coast Boat trip along th

Pelican Bar

When is the best time to visit?

We have visitors coming to Treasure Beach all year long, there is no special recommended time. But if you prefer to spend your time in a more active way, with more parties, events and organized attractions, it is better to come in the winter time, when it is the high tourist season.

Form December to March, you will find more parties, more bonfires on the beach, more live music, more events, more street dances and of course more tourists. But don’t worry, Treasure Beach is never crowded. I think more people choose winter time to come to Jamaica because of the weather in their country, not because it is necessarily a better time in Jamaica.

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Where to explore?

Just take a walk around, go to the beaches, hang out with locals, step into the bars, clubs, restaurants and explore local life. Everywhere you will meet friendly people, it is safe to go wherever you want in Treasure Beach. You will make friends and you will find real Jamaica here.

Best place to watch the sunset?

I love to watch the sunset from Frenchman’s Reef Restaurant, which is located right on the beach at Frenchman’s Bay. You can enjoy the show with your Jamaican friends holding your favorite drink in your hand!

Favorite hang-out spot?

It is changing from time-to-time.

Right now, I like Tree Top Bar at Lashing Villa, a really relaxing place

Pristine waters

with a beautiful view and the owners know how to make their guests comfortable and happy. Sometimes I go there to do my work, spending all day working on my laptop.

Best night spot?

My best night spot is Kasha Tree Bar. It always has good music and is open until late. This is also my favorite place to organize music jam sessions or karaoke with live music. Here is also delicious Kim’s Restaurant open until late night hours, run by my Rasta friend Kim, she is one of the best chefs in the entire Treasure Beach.

Tell us about your new business venture?

Treasure Beach Tourist Information is a new enterprise to boost, market and promote the area locally and internationally to travellers interested in experiencing the real Jamaica. We promote it as the best destination in Jamaica for community tourism, leisure travel, ecotourism, agritourism, alternative tourism and all other non-mass tourism activities. The plan is to promote Treasure Beach as an ‘all-inclusive village’ offering travellers an awesome Jamaican experience with various choices of accommodation, restaurants, bars, tours, trips, transportation and entertainment.

We started by branding Treasure Beach as a tourist product itself, so we designed a logo and a marketing strategy for it. The next step is to set up a tourist centre – the go-to-place, where travellers can meet,

as well as access local businesses and services. We plan to introduce a variety of innovative services, such as a ‘lost and found’ office; travellers can even leave their laundry to wash or luggage to hold for couple of days. We are planning the Treasure Beach Promo Tour in 2019, which will be a major promotion throughout Europe at reggae shows, trade shows and other events.

Currently we offer a one price package to Polish travellers that is inclusive of airfare, 14-days accommodation, several attractions every day, ground transportation and tour host. During the two-week period guests stay about one week in Treasure Beach, and in the second week we travel around Jamaica. We visit Kingston, the Blue Mountains, Negril, Ocho Rio and Port Antonio. We also include special tours to the Rebel Salute Show and Bob Marley’s birthday celebration. We even have visitors who participate in the Reggae Marathon in Negril and other events around the island.

Treasure Beach Tourist Information 876-381-3804 Calabash Bay, Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth. www.treasurebeach.info R: 31, G: 55, B: 36

R: 237, G: 227, B: 22 R: 233, G: 184, B: 24

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| FEATURE

J.CHARLES SWABY’S

black

river safari

If adventure is what you seek then an hour-and-a-half boat tour featuring the beauty of Jamaica’s South Coast is a great idea. Grab your camera and head for the J. Charles Swaby’s Black River Safari.

Chugging down the scenic river, which is actually Jamaica’s largest navigable river and through what is probably our largest wetland area, is an ideal way to take in six glorious miles of the Black River lower morass.

Your boat captain will point out interesting facts and provide running commentary on both the ecology and a little history of the area.

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O

ver 100 species of birds have been spotted in the Black River morass and many can be observed from the boat.

The wetlands are also home to special mangroves and palms, and indigenous species of snakes can be seen on display on the property. But what is a swamp without its main attraction – the crocodile?

It is the great king crocodile that everyone wants to see and over 80 specimens are found here in the Black River wetlands.

Over a quarter century ago, Charles Swaby started his safari tours as means of cultivating among locals and visitors, a greater appreciation for one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures - the crocodile. Being on a swamp safari tour is an experience of a lifetime as the tranquil jungle river is welcoming to all. Visitors can have their photographs taken with a live crocodile from the crocodile nursery at no extra cost.

876-965-2513 Black River, St. Elizabeth jcsafari@hotmail.com

A hip boutique resort in the fr

iendly community of

T r easure Beach located

on Jamaica’s Low-key South Co

E: stay@jakeshotel.com | T: 1-876-965-3000 WWW.JAKESHOTEL.COM

ast

This is the real Jamaica:

oted loved-up, deep-roci ous.

and altogether deli

MANCHES Little Ochie

YOU ARE

HERE

M

anchester is for the natureloving adventurer who wants to experience an authentic Jamaican rural lifestyle. It is the home of community tourism, and you will

110 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

find only small hotels and guest houses.

Whether it’s by foot, bicycle, horseback, boat or just a leisurely drive – there is much to see and explore. It is an unusual and fascinating parish with varying landforms – it sweeps down from the mountainous interior that borders Cockpit Country, across an expansive plateau, dominated by the capital town of Mandeville, to the low-lying, mangrove coastal belt of Long

MANCHESTER Bay, with its black sand beach fringed by the bluish gray sea. To the west are the jagged cliffs of Old Woman Point. Beyond that is Alligator Pond, located on the parish border, which is one of the largest fishing beaches on the island. Not far offshore is Alligator Cay, offering some of the best snorkeling sites on the south coast.

Most of the towns and villages are located in the highlands, such as vibrant Porus and bustling Christiana. Take a scenic tour through the parish and you will come across places of historic and architectural interest including old churches, schools, estate houses, barracks and public buildings. The parish lists some thirty-two sites of historic and cultural interest, as well as over 130 sites of the Taino, Jamaica’s first inhabitants.

TER

It’s here on the plateau that you will find the agricultural lands, farming communities and fruit orchards. The ortanique, a cross between the orange and tangerine, was propogated, here; and the Irish potato was first introduced to Jamaica right here also, in 1902. Other major activities include coffee cultivation and cattle-rearing. Manchester is also bauxite country and you will see the mined-out hills and red mud lakes.

There are several rivers and streams, even waterfalls, and the occasional blue hole. The parish boasts over 100 caves, including the deepest, Smoky Hole. The coastal region is virtually uninhabited, with a few small, remote fishing villages.

Manchester boasts some of the most wellkept communities in Jamaica and Mandeville, ‘cool, green and clean’ has been voted one of the best. In colonial days it served as a hillside retreat due to its temperate climate (it can go down to 45 degrees). Then in 1940 it became something of a boom town when the multinational alumina companies started mining bauxite in the hills. It was known more for its flowers, than street hustlers, and had no slums only beautiful gardens and parks.

Shooter’s Hill

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CANOE VALLEY

LITTLE OCHI

A

day trip well worth the journey is Little Ochi, a bright spot located at the edge of the sea at Alligator Pond. As you descend the mountain the air becomes hot and thick, and you make your way across the black sand beach to this unique open-air restaurant.

There are brightly-coloured fishing boats on stilts with thatched roofs and fitted with rustic tables and benches. If you are lucky you may just see the fishing boats heading back in with their catch of the day.

The menu is everything seafood, fresh and cooked to order - lobster, fish, conch, shrimp, with side orders of bammy and festival.

876-610-6566 or 876-852-6430

C

anoe Valley is a forest reserve and covers over 5000 acres in Manchester, extending into the parish of Clarendon.

It got its name from the Taino, who used the trunks of the silk cotton trees in the area to make their canoes. A magnificent place, it is one of the unsung wonders and a naturalist’s paradise. It is a unique eco-system including a 7-mile strip of red mangrove swamp, marshlands, dense forests, deep grottoes, wild rugged cliffs, caves and immense sink holes, and the last remaining stand of palm thatch. But it’s a rough, mostly inaccessible landscape and sparsely populated.

The place is teeming with wildlife. At Alligator Hole River there are crocodiles and American eels, you may even see a rare manatee swim upriver. Where the river flows out into the sea there are nesting turtles, and you may spot harpins, baraccudas and sharks off shore.

God’s Well is an ominous spot, not far from Alligator Hole. A small rocky platform looks down a sheer drop to some 76 ft below, where it is filled with clear fresh water.

Experienced cavers tell us that it bends and continues further down to 240ft.

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The entire coastal area is being developed as the Manchester Heritage Coast.

MANCHESTER

HISTORIC SITES

CRUISES/ FISHING/ RAFTING

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Mandeville Courthouse

Oldest building in Mandeville square built in 1817.

Mandeville Parish Church

A beautiful brick building, it is a national landmark. It was built in 1814 and has a rich history.

St. George’s Anglican Church

18th century building located in Weir, known as ‘duppy church.’

Alligator Pond

The largest stretch of sand dunes on the island, it is an important fishing beach in Jamaica, and also a popular place for entertainment events.

Community Lifestyle A range of tours tailored to the interest and budget of Experience Tours visitors, for individuals as well as groups.

876-507-6326

CULTURAL TOURS

Manchester Horticultural Show

Held annually in May.

Marshalls Pen

A private nature reserve offering tours of the historic house and gardens. It is a well-known spot for bird-watching.

Small groups only 6-12. By appointment only.

876-877-7335

ADVENTURE TOURS

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

GOLF COURSES/ SPORTS

Pickapeppa Factory

Located in Shooters Hill, the first Jamaican condiment to be mass produced and bottled locally.

Auchtembeddie

Gateway to Cockpit Country, hiking trails and caves.

Coffee River Cave

Complex cave with underwater caverns.

Gourie Cave

Located near Christiana, the longest cave in Jamaica at 2.2 mile.

Maidstone

First community in Jamaica to be set up as a free village after Emancipation.

Roxborough

Birth place of Norman Manley, national hero and former Prime Minister.

Scenic Views

Shooter’s Hill and the Spur Tree Hill, ridge and trail.

Smokey Hole Cave

Located near Cross Keys, the deepest cave in Jamaica at 644ft.

Manchester Club

The oldest golf course on the island, ( 9-hole); tennis and squash. Bar.

876-962-2403

Information is subject to change without notice

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clarendon YOU ARE

HERE

I

f you are seeking a big adventure in the big outdoors, then Clarendon might just be the place you want to be. You won’t find any luxury hotels, fine dining 114 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

restaurants or over-planned curated tours.

Here tourism is very low-key. What you will find is a vast and varied landscape to go out and explore: take a rough route through the thickly forested mountains in the north; trek the vast low-lying lands in the central and southern region, where you will pass through expansive cane fields, banana plantations and citrus orchards; follow the dusty lonely roads

CLARENDON through barren stretches of flat land and dry riverbeds; cross winding dirt trails with John Crows circling overhead, while cattle and goats graze on the scrublands; keep moving until you reach the coastline with its black sand beaches and mangrove swamps teeming with wildlife including crocodiles, turtles and the rare manatee; and end your journey in unchartered territory, on a wild and hilly promontory at the southern-most tip overlooking several small cays off the coast.

Along the way you will discover caves, rivers, and natural springs. You can wander through rustic settlements, isolated fishing villages and bustling rural towns; and see traces of the past in the historic landmarks including abandoned sugar works, stone aqueducts and mills, forts, great houses, clock towers, churches and old railway stations.

Clarendon is the 4th largest parish and has a long and interesting history: The first Jamaicans, the Taino, are known to have settled in this area and there are numerous rock carvings and drawings in many of the caves. When the Spanish came they established their cattle ranches across the savannahs and panned for gold in the rivers. It became one of the wealthiest parishes during the British colonial era, producing indigo and growing sugar cane.

In the mid 1960s it became one of the major bauxite producers in the island. The parish has an interesting heritage with a large East Indian population, who are descendants of the indentured labourers who were brought to Jamaica in 1845 to work on the plantations.

The capital, May Pen, is the fastest growing rural town on the island and is located on a crossing at the Rio Minho, which is the longest river and runs the entire length of the parish.

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MILK RIVER SPA

T

here are thirty-five mineral springs in Jamaica and include coastal and mountain springs.

Most emerge along the side of river valleys, while others are found deep in caves and wells across the island. The springs vary in mineral content, flow and temperature, and some run either hot or cold, or both. The most popular springs in Jamaica are located at Milk River in Clarendon, Bath in St. Thomas, Black River in St. Elizabeth and Rockfort in Kingston.

The Milk River spa was discovered in the foothills of the Carpenter Mountains in 1794, and was originally located on a 2,000acre estate. Initially two public baths were built, offering accommodation. The property was reduced to 350-acres, and there are now nine sunken, Roman style private baths. Massages are available, and there is also an 116 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

outdoor pool that receives pumped water from the spring. Located above the spa is a small hotel with twelve spartan, but clean rooms. There is also a restaurant serving regular meals and vegetarian dishes. It overlooks the Milk River which flows serenely into the Farquhars Beach close by. It is an unusually fine black sand beach, rich in titanium and iron that sparkle, and the blueish-gray water is shallow for as much as 20 miles offshore.

The spa runs hot, at 92 degrees, and is said to be fifty times more radioactive that the world-famous Vichy spa in France. Open daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm, it also offers a rate for children.

Due to the high radioactivity, visitors can spend only fifteen minutes in the spa (although you can take up to 3 baths a day). There are also conference facilities, enabling participants to take advantage of the spa facilities.

876-610-7745-7

Farquhars Beach

HISTORIC SITES

ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Bog Great House

Ruins of the 18th century greathouse located near the Moneymusk Distillery.

Halse Hall Great House Located on a hill with a commanding view, it is a beautifully 876-986-2561 restored 18th century great house, with a small old family

graveyard.

Peter’s Church, The Alley

Portland Lighthouse

Denbigh 876-922-0610

CULTURAL TOURS

Bull Head Mountain

One of the oldest Anglican churches in Jamaica, built in 1671, with family gravestones, huge cotton trees and ruins of an old windmill nearby.

A rough, single-track road leads to the lighthouse located on the ridge. It stands 145 ft. and is the highest in Jamaica.

Held annually, it is the oldest and largest agricultural show in Jamaica and features produce and prize livestock from all the parishes. There are competitions and a farmer’s market with a variety of fresh produce. It’s a fun-filled family event with lots of entertainment.

Shaped like a bull, it is the geographical centre of the island.

876-469-1539

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

ADVENTURE TOURS

Jackson Bay Cave

Over 12,000 ft. of passage ways, underground lakes and chambers.

Portland Ridge

A rugged promontory rimmed with mangroves and offshore coral reefs, it is located on the southern tip of the parish.

Although difficult to access, it is riddled with caves to explore.

Salt River Discovery Centre

Clarendon’s newest eco-attraction is a wetland and wildlife centre with a boardwalk through the mangroves. There’s a bird hide, interpretation centre, mini museum, turtle pond, conservation nursery and dipping pond. You can also do bird-watching and take boat tours of the river and mangroves. It is managed by the Caribbean Coastal Area Management (C-CAM) Foundation.

876-289-8253

Information is subject to change without notice

2019 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA | 117

st. cather YOU ARE

HERE

I

f your sense of adventure is to experience places that authentically represent the stories and people of the island’s past, then the parish of St. Catherine 118 | ADVENTURE ISLAND JAMAICA

is where you should be headed. It has a long and fascinating history. It became the location of choice for the early Spanish settlers who considered it a healthy site with its large tracts of open land for farming and rearing cattle. It was here that they established their capital, St. Jago de la Vega, (City in the Fields), on a ford on the major river, the Rio Cobre. They lived there for 120 years, until the British

ST. CATHERINE troops invaded, destroying everything in their path and establishing it as their military base.

It would later be renamed Spanish Town and become the colonial capital of the island, with its grand public buildings and town mansions.

The capital was later moved to Kingston in 1872.

Spanish Town

ine

St. Catherine has the most heritage sites on the island, and there are many places for the cultural explorer to discover. The largest concentration of historic buildings and ruins is in Spanish Town – further afield you can visit bridges, prisons, barracks, churches, sugar works, great houses, railway stations, forts and even a castle! There are also several small towns and villages of historic interest, including Linstead Market, regaled in local song and poetry. Sligoville, the island’s first free village; and Ewarton, one of the early bauxite mining towns.

There are places of great natural beauty including the Bog Walk Gorge, one of the most scenic spots on the island; the picturesque agricultural lands of Lluidas Vale; the Juan de Bolas Mountains, that rise to almost 2,500ft; and the Hellshire Hills, a vast expanse of limestone forest that dominates the landscape in the south. There are several beautiful white sand beaches, popular with both locals and visitors, including Fort Clarence and Hellshire Beach; and offshore, there are the Goat Islands, natural habitats for endemic species.

But St. Catherine is not all about history - it is also one of the largest parishes and most densely populated. It is the fastest growing urban centre and is the major industrial and manufacturing hub.

Portmore, regarded as the ‘third’ city on the island, is one of the largest residential developments in the Caribbean, and is built on reclaimed land.

Hellshire Beach

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SPANISH TOWN

S

panish Town is a unique and special historic town, that has been inhabited continuously by all generations of settlers. If you turn off the main bypass, it will take you into the centre of the old capital.

Although there are no visible remains of structures built by the Taino or Spanish, layers of their history lie beneath the buildings constructed by the English colonists. There were several phases of construction by the British, each time grander as they tried to anchor Spanish Town as the capital of the island. Today much of what remains is in ruin, lost to fires, neglect and vandalism - but some buildings have been restored and give a fascinating glimpse into the past. Places of interest include the town square where there are some of the finest remnants of historic architecture in the Caribbean. There is the Parade with its Victorian-style park; the Rodney Memorial with its famous marble statue and cannons; the Island Records Office and Archives; the brick colonnaded courthouse; the House of Assembly; Kings House; and several town mansions. Other buildings of interest include the impressive cathedral, one of the oldest on the island.

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ST. CATHERINE

COLBECK CASTLE

C

olbeck Castle is one of the most imposing architectural ruins in Jamaica. It is located in a remote area about a mile from Old Harbour. Built at the end of the 17th Century by Colonel Colbeck, of the original army that invaded Jamaica in 1655. It is an impressive two-storey structure, 114 ft. long and 90 ft. wide, with four towers connected by a stone arcade on both floors.

Interesting architectural details include the decorative circular windows and loop holes.

There is also a long, narrow, vaulted dungeon, as well as several out-buildings.

THE IRON BRIDGE

T

he old Iron Bridge across the Rio Cobre in Spanish Town was constructed in 1801. Built of cast iron sections manufactured in England, it weighed 87 tons and used the innovative device of diminutive circles to spread the load. Two contemporary designs were built in England around the same time, and both collapsed shortly after. The Jamaican bridge has been restored and still stands, but is only used by pedestrians.

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ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Fort Clarence Beach

A beautiful wide stretch of white sand beach. Clear, calm, shallow water. Well-maintained with facilities. Great fish, fried on spot. A favourite place for locals and visitors.

876-364-3628 BEACHES/ RIVERS/ SPRINGS

Hellshire Beach

Although the sandy beach has been greatly eroded, it’s still a popular spot for locals, especially for the seafood, prepared by vendors who operate out of shacks all along the beach.

Worthy Park Estate

Producing sugar since 1670, it is one of the largest sugar estates in Jamaica, and spreads out over 10,000 acres with breathtaking views of Lluidas Vale. The estate produces Rum Bar rums.

876-903-6103 ADVENTURE TOURS

HISTORIC SITES

Ferry Inn

Built in 1677, one of the earliest taverns in Jamaica, it was where travellers would stop for refreshments and change horses. Part of the old stone foundation remains, and it is now part of a school complex, located just off the newlyconstructed highway.

Fort Augusta

Situated on the coast, between Port Henderson and Passage Fort it was built in the 1750s and was originally part of the island’s defence system and housed over 80 guns. It was converted into a prison for women, and is the only one of its kind in the island.

Pinnacle

Located on a hilltop in Sligoville, said to be the birthplace of the Rastafarian movement, it is the site of one of the earliest Rastafarian settlements. It was founded in 1940 by Leonard Howell, known as the ‘First Rasta’. It was frequently raided during the 1950s, and most of the Rastas moved out. It has recently been restored as a Rastafarian Heritage site. There are old stone ruins of the great house.

Rodney’s Look-Out

Built by Admiral George Rodney on a summit of the Port Henderson Hills between 1780- 1782, it was an old signal station west of Port Henderson.

Sligoville

It was once a popular summer retreat for the colonial elite, and later became the first ‘free village’ established in the West Indies after slavery was abolished. It is a scenic route, and there are several historic sites.

Caymanas Golf and Country Club

Opened in 1957, it is ranked amongst the best in the Caribbean. An 18-hole championship golf course it has a a pro-shop, club house, swimming pool, chipping green, driving range and golf school. Tournaments are held throughout the year, and it is a venue for major music and party events.

876-746-9772 GOLF COURSES/ SPORTS

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ATTRACTIONS

DESCRIPTION

Caymanas Race Track The 196-acre premium race track facility accommodates 876-988-2523

the Sport of Kings and hosts over 900 races a year.

Bog Walk Gorge

A scenic route, best seen in the early morning when the mist comes down. It stretches for almost 12 miles, and the deep river gorge is faced on either side by towering rocks.

The road runs alongside the river and was cut in 1770. There is also the historic Flat Bridge, which has no side railings.

Goat Islands

Just offshore, Little and Great Goat Island are a nature-lovers paradise and are protected habitats for endemic species.

During World War II the larger island was a US naval base.

Hellshire Hills

A rugged and sparse terrain, home to the Jamaican Iguana and numerous caves.

Two Sisters Cave

Located in Hellshire Hills, each cave has a large sink hole, which contain reservoirs of fresh water. The caves also have Taino carvings.

HORSERIDING

SCENIC LANDSCAPE

876-322-9692

Old Harbour Fishing Village CULTURAL TOURS

For a colourful slice of local life, this large fishing village has a bustling and lively fish market, the largest on the south coast.

Information is subject to change without notice

Old Harbour Fishing Beach

Caymanas Golf and Cou

ntr y Club

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