Holywell is a world of verdant forests, brimming with life; panoramic vistas and silent clouds. This is relaxation at its purest.

From your serene and lofty perch here in the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, it’s hard to believe Kingston is only an hour away. Yet there it is, sprawled out before you in the distance.

Many people make the short drive from Kingston to Holywell to find natural beauty, peace and relaxation, high in the mountains. If you’re looking for something more active than contemplating the beauty of nature, Holywell can accommodate that, as well. There are four nature trails here, perfect for hiking, bird watching and generally immersing yourself in the mountain ecosystem. You’ll encounter waterfalls and a rich variety of flora and fauna. Trail guides are available, but not necessary.

Holywell offers expansive picnic areas with barbeque pits and gazebos. It is also home to the Blue and John Crow National Park Visitors’ Center, where you can learn more about Jamaica’s only national park. There’s a Children’s Discovery Zone, and coffee and farm tours are also available. Should you wish to extend your visit overnight (and why wouldn’t you?), there are three charming cabins available for rent. Originally built for forest rangers in the 1970’s, each cabin has a living room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom and covered porch with a glorious view of Kingston and the sea. You can also rent a tent, and camp on the park’s scenic grounds.

Only an hour’s drive from Kingston, yet worlds away from the hustle and pressure of modern day life, the Holywell Recreation Area is a sumptuous tonic for the soul.