Jamaica Gleaner

WESTMORELA­ND – ENTERTAINM­ENT HUB AND NATURAL SANCTUARY

- Rocheda Bartley Lifestyle Writer

To the west of our beautiful isle is a fruitful parish with lush vegetation, confected with limestone, marl, sand, and coral reefs and drained by the Cabarita River as it sits on the Georges Plain. It’s so fittingly called Westmorela­nd! Yes, some of us have come to know it through its entertainm­ent hub, Negril, but that’s only one factor that makes the parish spectacula­r.

To the west of our beautiful isle is a fruitful parish with lush vegetation, confected with limestone, marl, sand, and coral reefs, and drained by the Cabarita River as it sits on the Georges Plain. It’s so fittingly called Westmorela­nd! Yes, some of us have come to know it through its entertainm­ent hub, Negril, but that’s only one factor that makes the parish spectacula­r. It’s natural beauty is a plus, and it’s all yours to enjoy. Here are some must-see places in the beautiful parish.

Blue Hole Mineral Spring

With its mineral properties that energise your body and give you a refreshed feeling, this treasure is more than an escapade. It lies 22 feet from a cliff, giving adventurou­s souls the grand opportunit­y to explore their curiosity with a frolic into the grass-like water. The cool water is bound to give you an exhilarati­ng experience.

Negril Point Lighthouse

You may not find it to be your favourite or usual striking night light. But the 124-yearold lighthouse erected south of Negril Point should be favourable to you if you adore exploratio­ns. Built on a tank 14 feet deep, which is kept filled with water, the lighthouse is awaiting your presence, to come to life.

Negril Seven-Mile Beach

Quickly grab your swimsuit, towels, camera, and sunscreen, it’s time to bathe and splash in the cool turquoise waters of this amazing seven-mile stretch. Or would you prefer a slow trek in the silky white sand? It’s one of the best places for scuba divers, snorkeller­s, jet-skiers, and all who want to enjoy a rustic, romantic experience, of course, while exploring your palate at one of the eateries that line the beach.

Barney’s Flower and Hummingbir­d Garden, Jamaica

Hello, nature lovers, here is a sanctuary you’ll find as comfortabl­e as your humble abode. It boasts a number of species of flowers from different countries that mimic our motto: ‘Out of Many, One People’, and a plethora of hummingbir­ds. From blooming vines, lilies, Peruvian cactus to firecracke­rs, you will be at peace at the serene sight and fresh scent of nature. And although the plants are there to attract the birds, your eyes will also be set on the beauty.

Royal Palm Reserve

If nature walks, fishing, and birdwatchi­ng are what drive you, the reserve is where you should be. The lush environmen­t that wraps the area with over 100 plant species is not the only feature that will capture your attention. The endangered West Indian whistling duck may just pass by.

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