Returning to the Beautiful Spanish Bridge on the White River
“THE WORLD IS A BOOK AND THOSE WHO DO NOT TRAVEL READ ONLY A PAGE.” ~ SAINT AUGUSTINE
I returned to The Old Spanish Bridge on June 12 2019. I took an Ocho Rios coaster bus from downtown Kingston to Ocho Rios in the Garden Parish of St Ann.
After one hour and forty-five minutes of travelling from Kingston onto the North-South High Way through the famous Fern Gully, I arrived in the largest parish in Jamaica.
My journey ended in the Ocho Rios Bus Park. I then took a Gayle taxi and ask the driver to leave me at the nearest point to my destination because he wanted to charge me an arm and a leg to carry me to my exact location.
Before reaching the White River Bridge, the taxi turned right at the stoplight passing the Texaco Gas Station. It then drove straight onto Mile End Road. The taxi then turned right onto Lodge Main Road then right onto Cascade Road. The taxi drove through the communities of Exchange, Eltham, Newstead and Cascade to get to the beautiful the Old Spanish Bridge.
My journey came to an end at a narrow pathway. I started walking until I passed Chukka Adventure Park on my right. I asked the security guard if I am close to The Old Spanish Bridge and he said yes. So, I continued my journey through the forest alone and scared. It was my second time walking to The Old Spanish Bridge. But the distance wasn’t this long. There were no signs of humans so I decided to return home.
I saw an elderly man after passing Chukka Adventure Park. I asked him how close I was to reaching The Old Spanish Bridge and he said extremely close. I made up my mind to walk until I reach The Old Spanish Bridge. On my journey, I saw a guy on his bike heading in my direction. He said he was going to the river. I asked if I could tag along and he said yes.
So off I went on a stranger’s bike to The Old Spanish Bridge. Riding through the forest surrounded by fresh air and greenery is everything I live for. Sounds scary, true, but also brave.
My second visit to The Old Spanish Bridge in Labyrinth which is located on the border of St Mary and St Ann was nothing short of amazing.
At first glance at the clear-blue river, I felt a sense of peace. It put my world into perspective. It made me realize my dreams hopes and aspirations.
I am crazy in love with nature, It gets the best of me every time. At this said moment I wondered about all the hidden gems on the island waiting to be explored by yours truly.
I only needed the river and the trees as my company. Also, Monk. He is the famous guy that swings from the rope and my photographer for that day. The few kids that came after school to enjoy the river were good company too.
The river hopped over the stones in its path happily. The aroma of the surroundings, so lush, I was in heaven.
The remarkable Old Spanish Bridge is placed alongside the scene of greenery concealing the turquoise White River.
There is a rope to swing off the bridge. I wanted my Tarzan moment so badly but my fear of heights got the best of me.
There is space for parking and picnics.
The Old Spanish Bridge was built in the 17th century by the Spanish. The beauty of this famous bridge is remarkable.
I will forever remember my visit to The Old Spanish Bridge in Labyrinth even if I have a severe case of amnesia.
Have you ever been to The Old Spanish Bridge Labyrinth on the border of St Mary and St Ann?