An unexpected bloom of pine trees, plus mahogany and mahoe, grows atop the flinty heads of the Cockpits 3km northwest of Christiana, near Coleyville. This park is laced with hiking trails and is most noteworthy for having one of Jamaica’s longest cave systems. Two routes into the Gourie Caves have been explored, but this is advanced caving; ask at Hotel Villa Bella for a guide.
You’ll find magnificent columns, narrow fissures and an icy river with overhead air passages that barely clear 30cm. As such, Gourie should only be attempted in dry weather, as flooding is a distinct possibility. You’ll also want to bring warm clothes; the water is seriously cold.
To get to the park from Christiana, turn uphill (southwest) at the radio tower immediately south of the junction that leads west for Coleyville and Troy. Immediately take the left at a Y-fork, then right at the next Y-fork and follow the green wire fence. The road isn’t in very good condition, but it’s doable in a 2WD if you proceed carefully.
