Cornwall County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Cornwall County, Jamaica. Find out about local culture, customs, and safety tips as well as transportation options to help plan your trip.


Introduction to Cornwall County

Nestled in the heart of Jamaica’s north coast, Cornwall County is a small but beautiful region that offers a wealth of natural and historical attractions. From the stunning beaches and coral reefs to the towering cliffs and lush rainforests, Cornwall County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers.

This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Cornwall County. You’ll discover local culture, customs, safety tips, and transportation options to help plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Cornwall County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Rose Hall Great House - This stunning 18th-century mansion is one of the most famous attractions in Cornwall County. Once the home of a wealthy plantation owner, Rose Hall is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former mistress.

  2. Montego Bay Cultural Centre - This center is situated in historic Sam Sharpe Square and houses a museum, galleries and performance spaces. Learn about the cultural and historical significance of Montego Bay.

  3. Greenwood Great House - Built in 1780, this gorgeous Georgian mansion once belonged to the family of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, one of England’s most celebrated poets.

Natural Attractions of Cornwall County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Dunn’s River Falls - Located on the northeastern coast of Jamaica, this natural wonder is a must-visit spot in Cornwall County. Climb up the cascading falls or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

  2. Blue Hole Mineral Spring - This hidden gem is located just outside of Negril and is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. Soak in the mineral-rich waters or dive from the diving platform.

  3. Doctor’s Cave Beach Club - This beach club is one of the most popular in Montego Bay. Enjoy the crystal clear waters and white sand, rent a beach chair, or grab a drink at the bar.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cornwall County

  1. Blue Mountains - The Blue Mountains offer some of the best hiking and biking trails in Cornwall County. Enjoy breathtaking views while traversing these rugged peaks.

  2. Cockpit Country - Explore the rugged terrain of Cockpit Country with its intricate cave systems and deep sinkholes.

  3. Rio Bueno - Rio Bueno offers miles of scenic bike paths that wind through lush forests and along the coast.

Best Things to Do in Cornwall County: Activities and Tours

  1. Explore the Coral Reefs - Cornwall County is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse coral reefs in the world. Take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the vibrant underwater world.

  2. Visit a Sugar Plantation - Learn about Jamaica’s rich history on a tour of one of the many sugar plantations in Cornwall County.

  3. Enjoy Water Sports - Cornwall County’s calm, clear waters are perfect for water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cornwall County

Day Activity
Day 1 Dunn’s River Falls
Day 2 Montego Bay Cultural Centre
Day 3 Explore the Coral Reefs
Day 4 Blue Mountains Hike
Day 5 Visit a Sugar Plantation
Day 6 Cockpit Country Tour
Day 7 Relax at Doctor’s Cave Beach Club

Food and Drink Scene of Cornwall County

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Jerk Chicken - No visit to Cornwall County is complete without trying the famous Jamaican jerk chicken. Locals rub chicken in a variety of spices and slow cook it over coals to create a smoky and spicy flavor.

  2. Ackee and Saltfish – Jamaica’s national dish made with salted fish and boiled ackee fruit, a unique local product.

  3. Curry Goat - Another Jamaican staple, curry goat is a spicy and rich dish made with goat meat cooked in coconut milk and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Blue Mountain Coffee - This coffee is some of the best in the world and is grown in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica.

  2. Red Stripe - The national beer of Jamaica, this lager pairs well with spicy foods.

  3. Rum Punch - A delicious cocktail made with rum, fruit juices, and spices.

Where to Stay in Cornwall County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Half Moon - One of the most luxurious resorts in Cornwall County, Half Moon offers private beaches, a spa, and a golf course.

  2. Round Hill Hotel and Villas - With elegant rooms and villas, a beach club, and a Kids Club, this resort is perfect for families.

  3. Ackee Tree Hotel - This lovely little hotel is situated in the town of St. Ann’s Bay and offers comfortable rooms and delicious local cuisine at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Cornwall County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Blue Mountain Coffee - Take home some of the best coffee in the world.

  2. Rum - Jamaica’s rum is renowned for its quality and flavor. Look for bottles of Appleton Estate or Wray & Nephew.

  3. Handicrafts - Cornwall County has many talented artists who create beautiful pottery, weaving, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Cornwall County

Jamaica has a warm and friendly culture, with music playing a large role in the local customs. Reggae, ska, and dancehall music can often be heard in bars and clubs throughout Cornwall County.

Respect for elders is also a significant part of Jamaican culture. Visitors should be sure to address older individuals with titles like “Mr.” or “Mrs.”

Best Time to Visit Cornwall County

The best time to visit Cornwall County is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cornwall County

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Interact with locals and learn about their culture
  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated when exploring the outdoors

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on beaches or in hotels
  • Take photographs of individuals without their permission
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Cornwall County

While Cornwall County is generally safe, visitors should take precautions when exploring the area. Avoid walking alone at night and do not leave valuables unattended on beaches or in hotels.

Health in Cornwall County

There are no major health risks or concerns in Cornwall County. However, visitors should take basic precautions such as using insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites and staying hydrated in the sun.

Getting to Cornwall County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cornwall County

  • Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay
  • Ian Fleming International Airport in Ocho Rios

Bus Stations Near Cornwall County

  • Montego Bay Transportation Centre
  • Ocho Rios Transport Centre

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to travel around Cornwall County.

How to Get Around in Cornwall County

Public transportation in Cornwall County is limited. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Visitors may find it more convenient to rent a car or hire a private driver for the duration of their trip,

Where to Go Next from Cornwall County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Kingston - The capital of Jamaica is home to museums, galleries, and markets that offer a unique glimpse into Jamaica’s culture and history.

  2. Ocho Rios - A popular tourist destination, Ocho Rios is home to stunning beaches, waterfalls, and a variety of excursions such as zip-lining and bobsledding.

  3. Negril - Known for its beautiful sunsets, Negril has some of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Conclusion

Cornwall County is a small but beautiful region that offers a wealth of natural and historical attractions. From stunning beaches and coral reefs to towering cliffs and lush rainforests, Cornwall County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Cornwall County and you have a fantastic experience!



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