Blue Mountains
Jamaica’s Blue Mountains offer an experience not usually
expected in a Caribbean vacation: the chance to set off on a steep
hike through a national park mountain range across streams and
beside waterfalls, through a botanical wonderland. Hikers also pass
by coffee plantations, because it is in these mountains that the
famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is cultivated and blended, so
sought after that it has become one of the island’s chief
exports. Climbing from sea level, on the outskirts of Kingston,
along trails up to the foggy peaks, hikers discover a complex
series of ecosystems. En route to the mountains is the Blue
Mountain Inn, one of Jamaica’s most famous restaurants.
Further on at Irish Town the Strawberry Hill resort is the premier
place for food and lodging, having been frequented by the rich and
famous. Those not planning to hike, but wishing to enjoy a vista of
the mountains can picnic at Holywell National Recreation Park in
the area (open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm).
Jablum Coffee Company
At the Blue Mountain hamlet of Mavis Bank on the trail to Blue
Mountain Peak is the Jablum Coffee Company. The 100-year-old
company is famous for its Blue Mountain coffee, and visitors can
tour the working factory to watch the production process along with
sampling the brew.
Address: Mavis Bank;
Telephone: 977 8015;
Opening time: Monday to Friday 9am to 11am, and 1pm to 3pm;
Admission: J$8 for tour (by appointment)
