Blue Lagoon introduces Portland Parish with an unusual natural feature: it is believed to be the crater of an extinct volcano. It regularly bubbles gently, with the temperature rising; it is more than 180 feet deep. Its geological origins, recurring movement and depth make the lagoon a striking introduction to the landscape.
Rivers and water in different forms
In the Rio Grande Valley, the Rio Grande and its main tributaries, the Back River and Stony River, have carved a gorge between the Blue Mountains and the John Crow Mountains. A popular rafting trip on the Rio Grande runs from Berrydale to Rafters' Rest. It is popular with locals and tourists alike, connecting the river landscape with a hands-on experience on the water.
Water takes other forms in other places, too. At Frenchman's Cove, a natural freshwater stream flows into the sea and forms a tranquil pool suitable for swimming. At Somerset Falls, a short boat ride leads to a waterfall that plunges 33 feet into a small gorge, forming a bathing pool. The stream pool and the pool below the waterfall are distinct landscape features; at both places, water is part of what makes each one special.
Caves, gardens and history
Nonsuch Caves has nine separate chambers. Stalagmites and stalactites can be seen there by lantern light. Athenry Gardens is located on the site of a former coconut plantation and agricultural research station. These natural discoveries also offer a glimpse into the history of land use.
Fort George was built in 1729. Titchfield School was founded in 1786 as a free school for the parish's young people. The construction of Fort George and the founding of the school represent different historical themes: alongside the history of the landscape and water, the exploration of Portland Parish also includes architectural history and education.
The wider picture: Jamaica
In the broader destination of Jamaica, landscape and heritage come together on a larger scale. The Blue and John Crow Mountains area provided refuge for Maroons, formerly enslaved people, and preserves tangible cultural heritage associated with Maroon history, including the Nanny Town Heritage Route. It is also one of the world's most irreplaceable protected areas for amphibians, birds and mammals. Old Nanny Town is considered a Maroon citadel and settlement on Nanny Town Hill; little of the site remains visible.
Reggae is also part of Jamaica's broader cultural heritage: it is a central part of the country's culture. As for food, ackee and saltfish is Jamaica's national dish and a popular local breakfast. It is served with items such as fried dumplings, callaloo, green bananas, avocado and plantains, depending on the season.
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is grown exclusively at elevations between 3,000 and 5,500 feet in the cloud forest of the Blue and John Crow Mountains. The annual Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival celebrates coffee and offers visitors coffee-infused products to sample. The view thus extends from nature and cultural experiences in Portland Parish to nationwide culinary traditions and a recurring coffee festival.
Discover more destinations: Manchioneal, Port Antonio, Long Bay, Fairy Hill, Snow Hill, Fair Prospect, Buff Bay, Hope Bay, Hordley.
For the broader travel overview: Jamaica.
