June 20th, 2010
One of the best kept secrets in the Caribbean has always been Port Antonio, a tropical Eden and the jewel in Jamaica’s crown. Portland offers visitors unparalleled natural beauty – rugged, exciting coastlines, romantic beaches, hidden coves, rivers, and waterfalls with the Blue Mountain range providing a spectacular backdrop. Port Antonio, as the capital of Portland, has retained its charm as a quiet rural township and is home to one of the most beautiful harbours in the Caribbean.
Rafting
Rafting on the Rio Grande where river rafting started in Jamaica. The rafts glide serenely down river on this romantic two-hour trip.
Nonesuch Caves are situated four and a half miles to the east of Port Antonio on a property known as The Seven Hills of Athenry. Dicovered in the 30′s, the caves make a fascinating tour.
Valley Hikes offers organized hikes in the Rio Grande Valley with professional guides. All trails have been chosen for their unusual beauty.
Blue Lagoon is seven miles east of Port Antonio, surrounded by steep hillsides and dense green vegetation. Some claim it to be “bottomless”, but experts proclaim it to be about 185 feet at its deepest point. There is an excellent restaurant and non-motorized water sports.
Blue Lagoon Villas a charming seaside hideaway, nestled next to the famous Blue Lagoon is the perfect spot to recover from the stress of everyday life.
Fishing
Huntress Marina provides all the gear needed for a full or half day of fishing or snorkelling.
Frenchman’s Cove was once the most exclusive resort in the world and is still one of the most spectacular beaches.
Somerset Falls are hidden in a tropical rainforest. Take a walk through cool greenery, rich with exotic plants or swim in the river.
St Gerorge’s Village in Port Antonio, is a shopping Mall with a difference. Intriguingly and tastefully designed in the style of a medieval castle, it will have you looking around for knights in shining armour instead of shopping bargains.
Mocking Bird Hill, romantic, serene, eco-friendly boutique hotel, gourmet cuisine, close to the beach with panoramic vistas.
June 19th, 2010
South Coast in Jamaica
Mandeville
Mandeville, principal town of the parish of Manchester, is a quiet, restful mountain resort, a little over 2,000 feet above sea level with a cool climate (70-75 degrees by day, 65-70 degrees by night) ideal for such pursuits as golf, walking and horseback riding.
The town is often likened to an English village and certainly boasts a village green, handsome stone buildings and stone-walled pastures.
Bamboo Avenue
Bamboo Avenue at Lacovia is a well-known attraction where the road is lined for miles with tall bamboo which meets overhead like a vaulted cathedral roof.
Lover’s Leap
Lover’s Leap is another remarkable beauty spot where a sheer cliff, 1,600 feet high, overhangs the sea.
Treasure Beach
Treasure Beach not so long ago, was known only to Jamaicans and a very few privileged visitors. Now, a few more people have heard the secret. The natural peace and tranquility has not yet been spoiled and the warmth and hospitality of the people will touch your hearts.
Jakes at Treasure Beach provides everything you need, color, space, light and sea. Beautiful basics, a welcoming bed, a beckoning view and music to soothe. From Jakes you can mountain bike, canoe, fish, try a river safari or simply become forgetful by a waterfall.
Jakes Restaurant offers fresh seafood and spicy cuisine. Dine by the seaside in a romantic setting and experience the real taste of Jamaica.
Black River
Black River is Jamaica’s largest river. Nature lovers will delight in exploring what it has to offer. Boat trips are available. The YS Falls on the river are held by some to be the island’s most spectacular.
Middle Quarters
At the quaintly-named village of Middle Quarters, basket-carrying women will come to your car crying,”Shrim, Shrim, Shrim”. They are selling succulent cooked and peppered shrimps caught in nearby Black River.
For those who wish to thoroughly explore the island, the following trips will add excitement to the visit.
Apple Valley Nature Park
Located in the town of Maggotty, you can fish, hike and paddle your own canoe in this park.
Milk River Baths
A 30-minute drive from Mandeville, these mineral baths are said to be highly restorative.
YS Falls
Situated on an estate of the same name, these cataracts are among the most spectacular in Jamaica. There are eight of them, falling a breathtaking 120 feet in majestic tiers.
Diving
There can be no finer place in the world for diving than Jamaica with its crystal clear waters and its tropical reefs, abundant with sea-life. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy this experience. A one-day diving course will give you enough basic skills for a shallow dive – and that’s all it will take to get you “hooked”.
Fishing
Jamaica is also for deep sea, big-game fishermen. Blue marlin, dolphin, tuna, kingfish and wahoo await the challenge. Port Antonio is particularly well-known for this sport.
