As you hike through the misty Blue Mountains of Jamaica, take a moment to breathe in the scent of jasmine from the white-flowered coffee trees that mingle with palms, ferns and orchids in this part of the rainforest. Following the trails, you'll hear all about the traditions and techniques of coffee growing in this region – and why its beans are some of the most sought-after – and expensive – in the world. Marcus, a local guide, explains “the Blue Mountains are special, not just for their beauty, but for what they give the farming community. The high altitude, the cool climate and the rich soil are a dream for coffee growers.”
The trail will take you on a leisurely trek up the mountain, past small family-owned coffee farms. Here, you'll learn more about how farmers have been harvesting ripe coffee cherries by hand, to create the mild, fruity and sweet flavour of Blue Mountain coffee, since the 18th-century. And the scenery here is pretty historic, too, like something out of Jurassic Park – think thick green rainforest dotted with waterfalls, valleys and misty mountain peaks. You'll want to keep your phone handy for pics.
After a little over two miles of walking, you'll be rewarded with a cooling dip in the Blue Mountains Whirlpool. Marcus adds “don't worry – it's a deep rocky pool with a waterfall flowing into it – not a swirling vortex! It's locally known as the Fountain of Youth, so come swim off a few years.” Round off the tour by making a lasting impact on the local greenery. You'll plant a tree as part of a programme to support reforestation and sustainable farming in this part of Jamaica.
