Visiting Prospect Great House & The Blue Hole In Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Most of the focus in Jamaica tends to be, understandably, on the island's stunning coastline. Caribbean blue waters, powdery beaches, and beautiful resorts and villas attract visitors from around the world.
When our Villa & Destination Specialist Krystal visited Ocho Rios, she enjoyed some fun excursions in the hills and countryside around the coasts.
One excursion was the ATV and Old Plantation/Farm Tour, which included a visit to the "Cool Blue Hole."
Old Prospect Plantation
Prospect Plantation
Prospect Plantation dates from the Colonial Period in Jamaica. Its 1,000+ acres include tropical gardens, coconut groves, and scenic views of the Caribbean Sea. Founded in the 1700s, the Plantation produced sugar cane, bananas, and coconuts.
The Plantation was purchased by the Scottish aristocrat, Sir Harold Mitchell, in the 1930s. Mitchell lived in the Great House until his death in the 1980s. Over the years, he welcomed many famous guests, including Winston Churchill.
The estate offers a glimpse into Jamaica's agricultural history and colonial past. It's a picturesque destination for nature lovers who enjoy gardens, water features, and wide-open spaces.
Prospect Plantation Great House
Today, the estate is open for tours. Our team member's tour included an ATV ride of the grounds and surrounding forest, as well as a simple lunch at the Great House.
That farm offers other activities including horseback riding if that is your thing.
Traveler's Tip: The ATV ride is a lot of fun. According to Krystal, "The views are beautiful, but beware—it was pretty muddy when we visited, and we went through large puddles! They do not allow photos, but they will be available for purchase afterward for around $40."
From the veranda of the Great House you can take in fantastic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
Traveler's Tip: "The lunch is (was for us) very basic, so don't plan on a grand Jamaican feast. You'll have a simple bite and move on with the rest of your day."
The Cool Blue Hole
Cool Blue Hole is one of several natural limestone sinkholes in the area, with secluded and relatively untouched falls.
You are pulled by a tractor in a sort of rickety covered wagon to the Blue Hole, which is an experience! The Blue Hole itself is an indeed a cool place. Any visitor will enjoy the experience.
Shopping Trip
After a full day at the Plantation, the group stopped at a shopping center to buy Jamaican souvenirs, such as rum, coffee, jewelry, and carvings. Krystal was hesitant at first but found these shops and prices to be very reasonable. Her favorite shop was Likkle Jamayka.
Traveler's Tip: If you are looking for authentic Jamaican items to take home, stick to food items and jewelry, and read clothing labels, as most are not locally produced.
The Prospect Planation - Blue Hole Tour Wrap-Up
The ATV/Great House & Blue Hole excursion was an all-day experience and cost a little over $100, including transport from the coast; it included two (very simple) meals. While she very much enjoyed most of the experience, especially the Blue Hole, unfortunately, we cannot recommend the tour company she used as there were "some quality issues" in her opinion.
Traveler's Tips:
- There are several options for excursions and different tour operators in the Ocho Rios area.
- There is more than one "Blue Hole" to visit.
- There are tours that will take you to famed Dunn's River Falls as well as other Blue Holes in the area.
We recommend that you do your research and speak to other travelers, property managers, or resort staff to determine which excursion is right for your group.
One thing is certain: spending a day away from the beach and exploring the glorious area around Ocho Rios is well worth it - so get out there and explore!
Contact us if you would like to book a fantastic villa in Ocho Rios or elsewhere in Jamaica.
(We can also share which tour operator we are not able to recommend.)
