“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.” – W.B Yeats
I took the new route to St. Thomas which offers beautiful views of the mountains, making for a great start to an adventurous day.
Holidays are meant for relaxation and discovery, and my recent journey to Allan/Allen Spring promised both. Expecting solitude in this remote haven, I was eager to escape the holiday crowds and find some peace.
Anticipating that most Jamaicans would opt for more accessible destinations, Yet, the day held unexpected twists that led me to new and memorable experiences.
St. Thomas, Jamaica, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and rich history. As I journeyed towards this enchanting parish, I was captivated by its scenic landscapes and serene atmosphere. My adventure took me through the picturesque Georgia District, a place that holds a special charm of its own.
To my delight, I found some cows grazing peacefully in a meadow, seemingly without a care. These cows were the same ones I had encountered on my last visit, their serene presence adding a comforting sense of familiarity to the landscape. Watching them graze, undisturbed by the world around them, brought a smile to my face and a sense of continuity to my journey.
The lush greenery, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers created a mesmerizing tableau that seemed almost otherworldly. Every twist and turn of the road revealed a new, stunning vista, making the journey itself an unforgettable part of the adventure.
As I arrived at Copper Hole, I was warmly greeted by my two loyal dog friends, their wagging tails a familiar sight.
The scarcity of lemons had made them overpriced at the market, so I was thrilled to have found some on my way. They added a touch of zest to my holiday.
Navigating the narrow, tree-lined track, reminiscent of Holland Bamboo in St. Elizabeth, felt almost ceremonial.
The towering, dark green trees created a majestic aisle, with my doggy friends faithfully by my side.
My excitement turned to confusion as I passed the entrance to the swimming pool. Retracing my steps, I discovered that the once-inviting pool had dried up. It was hard to believe, considering I had visited just a few weeks prior. Undeterred, I pressed on to Copper Hole, only to find an empty void where water once flowed.
I found myself reminiscing. Years ago, I stumbled upon Copper Hole, a serene oasis that seemed almost mythical in its beauty. The crystal-clear waters, cascading into a tranquil pool, were surrounded by lush greenery that painted a perfect picture of nature's artistry. It was hard to believe that such a place existed in St. Thomas. That first visit left an indelible mark on my heart, a memory of pure enchantment and wonder.
Eager to share the magic of Copper Hole, I returned with my friend Jess on my second visit. However, to our dismay, the waterfall had dried up, leaving behind an empty, lifeless hole. The contrast to my first visit was stark, and the disappointment was palpable. We left, hoping that Copper Hole would one day return to its former glory.
Determined to see Copper Hole in all its splendor once more, I made a third visit. This time, nature had restored its beauty, and the waterfall flowed gracefully again. The sight was breathtaking, a reminder of the resilience and ever-changing nature of the world around us. Standing there, I was filled with a sense of gratitude and awe, appreciating the journey that had led me back to this magical place.
With Copper Hole no longer an option, I decided to visit Grampa Waterfall, well aware it would be bustling with holiday-goers. True to expectation, the retired dam, a smaller counterpart to Reggae Waterfall, was teeming with families enjoying the perfect swimming depths. The festive atmosphere, though lively, wasn't what I sought for a day of relaxation.
Determined to find a serene spot, I headed to Allan/AllenSpring in the community of Fonthill.
It had been years since my last visit, and I hoped it would offer the peace I craved.
The tranquility was a stark contrast to the crowded Grampa Waterfall.
Setting up by the spring, I prepared a delightful fruit dish of cantaloupe, watermelon, and cucumber.
Enjoying the feast in this magical location, I took in the beauty of the spring, capturing clips and photos to immortalize the moment.
A refreshing bath in the clear, deep water followed, allowing me to fully relax and appreciate the serenity of Allan Spring.
Bathing in the river, eating fresh fruits, inhaling clean air, laughing, playing in the water, and enjoying your own company are some of the best feelings in the world.
With only the distant birds as my companions, I felt a deep sense of peace.
The natural symphony of their songs added a melodic backdrop to my journey, enhancing the serene ambiance of the surroundings.
Solitude in nature has always been my preference, and St. Thomas provided the perfect setting for this.
The photos I captured were breathtaking, each one a testament to the magic of this place. I couldn't wait to share these images with the world, showcasing the untouched beauty of St. Thomas.
My holiday in St. Thomas was everything I had hoped for and more. The solitude allowed me to relax and reflect, embracing the natural beauty around me. The peacefulness of Allan/Allen Spring, combined with the helpfulness of the local community, made this trip unforgettable. It was a perfect escape, and I found myself never wanting to leave.
Visit Nature's Sweet Escapes YouTube channel for an in-depth look at this amazing adventure! Also, follow me on Instagram at Nature's Sweet Escapes and on TikTok at .naturessweetescapes for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments from my journeys.
Allan Spring was a destination worth returning to, though its water flow isn't always guaranteed during droughts.
Adventures often come with unexpected challenges, but they also lead to unforeseen delights.
My holiday journey, from the dried-up Copper Hole to the bustling Grampa Waterfall, and finally to the serene Allan Spring, reminded me of the joys of exploration and the rewards of persistence.
Have you ever embarked on an adventure where initial disappointments led to a perfect ending? Share your stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your own unexpected discoveries!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Whatta Gwaan!
You've discovered my blog. I'm delighted you're here. Maybe it's destiny. I'm Doreen Lillian Scarlett welcome to Nature's Sweet Escapes where I go on the far side of Instagram to document and share my adventures.