T
he dream of a luxury Caribbean hideaway nestled amongst
a coconut grove in the cool, secluded hills above a world
famous beach is one we’ve all had at some point. There
are some people who are able to manifest that dream to reality.
In a forgotten corner of Jamaica, Portland has survived the mass
tourism on the north coast surrounding Montego Bay. In a strange
quirk of fate, it also happens to be the most beautiful parish.
Portland, or ‘Portie’ to those clued in, is backdropped by the mystical
Blue Mountains whose undulating hills and valleys of verdant
forest conceal bounteous springs, mineral rich rivers and iconic,
cascading waterfalls. Its beauty is of the surreal, encapsulating
kind. A deep, profound inner beauty that once seen, leaves its
legacy imprinted in the psyche of one’s soul. The hills eventually
give way to 80 kilometres of protected wetlands, rich with diverse
wildlife and hidden coves ripe for exploration and picture perfect
Caribbean beach idylls.Seven kilometres east of the parish capital Port Antonio, lies the
exclusive Geejam hotel collection comprising seven on-site suites
and two luxury villas in the surrounding hills. The emphasis is on an
oasis marrying serious style with island cool. Islands don’t get cooler
than Jamaica and hotels don’t come much more stylish than Geejam.COCOSAN
The Crown Jewel
By James Cooper-Mitchell
Photography by Douglas Lyle Thompson