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Holywell Recreational Park

Holywell Park is one of the hidden natural gems of Jamaica perfect for those interested in eco-tourist attractions. Holywell is a mountain retreat over 3,000 feet above sea level, in the cool mist forests of the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park.

View from Holywell

It is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. With lush vegetation everywhere the park is often bathed in tropical mist. It is always cool with the fresh fragrance of mountain air. When it is clear you can get a spectacular view of Kingston, Portmore and Port Royal which lie below the mountain. The park was replanted extensively with Caribbean pines after suffering damage from hurricane Gilbert and Ivan.

Holywell is a 90 minutes drive from Kingston. The Blue Mountain and John Crow Mountains National Park spans 3 parishes in Jamaica. It is Jamaica’s only terrestrial national park protecting 1/3 of the island’s natural forests. It is home to some of many unique plants including the world’s tiniest orchids and also a bamboo plant that flowers once every 33 years. It is also home to many animals including the Giant Swallowtail Butterfly, the largest in the Western hemisphere and the Jamaican Boa the largest snakes in Jamaica. There are also a wide variety of birds in the park Holywell is also home to 10 major rivers. One added attraction is that this is the home to the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee.

There are 4 well maintained trails for hiking. The waterfall trial is highly recommended as you will find an untouched waterfall and river. There are a few "watering holes" for a great swim. Be warned that the water is cold. We recommend you check in with park ranger if you are going to hike especially if it is during rainy season. Be sure to pack the proper hiking gear including hiking boots. There are also covered gazeboes and picnic tables perfect for group outing, relaxation, cook-out and/or just observing nature. There are several signs explaining the flora in the park

On site accommodations include 3 self-contained cabins and camping tents connected by easy nature trails to the ranger station and picnic area. On weekends the cabins are normally full. Book in advance through the JCDT. The rustic cabins sleep 4-6 people and have kitchenettes and hot and cold water. The view of Kingston from the balcony will make up for the rustic interior.

There is a special area in the park for children to play called the Kids Discovery Zone.

For more information contact: JCDT/Green Jamaica
(876) 920-8278/9
(876) 960-2848/9
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