Mandeville, the principal town of the parish of Manchester, is a quiet mountain resort over 2,000 feet above sea level. Its cool climate (70-75°F by day, 65-70°F by night) makes it ideal for pursuits like golf, walking, and horseback riding.
The town is often likened to an English village and boasts a village green, handsome stone buildings, and stone-walled pastures. Historically, Mandeville thrived after bauxite mining took off; the area’s alumina plant at Nain is among the largest in the world. Ecotourism and community-based tourism are now on the rise, offering visitors a chance to explore the real Jamaica beyond traditional resort areas.
A noteworthy local experience is the 9-hole golf course—the oldest on the island— which cleverly features 18 tee boxes to allow a full round in the cool hill climate. The surrounding scenery includes Bamboo Avenue at Lacovia, where bamboo stalks create a natural tunnel overhead. Nearby is Lover's Leap, a dramatic 1,600-foot cliff that overlooks the sea, as well as Treasure Beach and the majestic Black River, Jamaica’s largest river and home to wetlands, birds, and the occasional crocodile.
Community tourism, pioneered here, gives visitors an immersive look at local life— everything from visiting schools and churches to exploring roadside bars and discos.
Renting a car from Dhana Car Rental (Cars as cheap as US$275/week) (876-953-9555) gives you freedom to explore the hidden gems around Mandeville. Recommended adventures include:
Get to know Jamaica’s country communities and local culture through organized tours. (876) 962-3725
For those of you unfamiliar with the major towns of Jamaica, we have included the following road maps and a set of road signs with major hotels/villa noted so that you can plan your trip in Jamaica accordingly. You can zoom in or out and scroll around as needed.
