Reach Falls is a treasure about 25 miles east of Port Antonio. It is just beyond and about one mile inland from the town of Manchioneal, a long but exquisitely beautiful drive over Portland's notoriously bad roads. But don't blame them too much. Remember, they get over 250 inches of rain per year in the parish of Portland. Just take it easy over the pot holes and you'll be OK.

The Reach Falls are what I imagine paradise would be like. You descend about 75 feet down a stairway of logs and stone with a rickety railing to a completely sheltered grotto full of lush vegetation. There is a large pool in front of the main waterfall, which is about 60 feet across and 20 feet high. You can take a swim, but don' t leave or you will miss the best part of this trip. Plan at least one or two hours for your stay, as you will really discover the beauty of this place by following the river upstream.You should use the guide there. He knows the way up the river like his pocket and will show you some hidden caves. He will also carry your camera, towels, shoes, etc., the trip will let you climb some of the most intriguing cascades of small waterfalls and swim through ponds and pools of water in all the greens and blues you can imagine. You don't need to like extreme sports. Grandparents can do it, so can your young children. Paradise is supposed to be sweet and not dangerous.