Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer
One of the rock formations from which the river cascades at Reach Falls.

Paul H. Williams, Sunday Gleaner Writer

It might not be as grand and well known as Dunn's River Falls, but it is just as spectacular, even magical. And where else could it be, but in the greenest place on Earth: the parish of Portland.

Located on the Driver's River, east of Port Antonio, Reach Falls has been luring locals and tourists for decades by its enchanting pools of bluish water, natural chutes and sparkling cascades.

There are two main pools, water from one thundering down several feet into other. Patrons used to jump over the ledge into the bigger pool below, but diving is now prohibited, despite the presence of lifeguards.

To get a natural massage, go under the tons of rushing water and let it beat down on your back. Submerge yourself in one of the watery holes dug by the force of the water and let the foaming water caress your shoulders. Then disappear behind the waters into the rock, and emerge at the top. Laze the time away by floating on your back as you look at the peaceful sky through the branches of ancient trees, and think to yourself, what a wonderful world this is.

But things were no always so wonderful at the falls, as it relates to the day-to-day runnings. Prior to June 2006, the property was operated under a sort of laissez-faire system - everything goes. "Facilities at Reach Falls were below the international standard befitting a world-class attraction," says the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), which has since leased the property under agreement with the National Land Agency.

According to the UDC website, "The corporation has collaborated with several agencies and stakeholders in its bid to establish Reach Falls as a world class facility. These include the Portland Parish Council, the Jamaica Public Service Company, the National Water Commission and the community of Reach.

"Reach Falls was leased to the UDC to facilitate the phased upgrading of the property to meet licensing and operating standards in the short term. The upgrading of Reach Falls is in keeping with the mandate to enhance the tourism offering in the eastern end of the island and will be in line with Portland's designation as a 'green' destination."

To what was already given by nature, the UDC has added much. "The UDC has upgraded the bathrooms and landscaped the grounds. Temporary facilities have been provided which house a ticket office, administration and first-aid area. The corporation has provided the requisite funding to the Portland Parish Council to facilitate the provision of potable water and upgrading of the access road to Reach Falls. Customers are given a tour of the falls and have the opportunity to swim in the natural pools," the UDC says.

New arrangements

The UDC regional company, the St. Ann Development Company, will manage the property, where many persons from Reach and surrounding communities are employed.

But, some persons, more so the 'original' vendors, are not pleased with the new arrangements. They claimed that they were promised a spot in the new facilities, but when the gates were open, they were turned away. The 4.6-hectare property is now out of their reach.

However, the UDC says: "Reach Falls is still in its interim phase of development. As such there are no facilities for handling food or beverage at this time ...Vending facilities will be provided at a later date in the phased upgrading, at which time a decision will be taken on how these facilities will be operated."

Another issue for contemplation is the correct name of the falls. Some say that it is 'Reich', named after its "previous German owners". "However," the UDC website says, "there is no written proof that there was a previous owner by that name and the period during which he lived could not be ascertained."

The website also says: "Residents in the community will tell you that the name 'Reach' originated with the Maroons, who in their flight from the British escaped to the foothills of the Blue Mountains and in their joy exclaimed, 'We reach! We reach!' when they got to what is now known as the village of Reach."

If it is not near to you, not to worry, when you reach, just relax and soak up the pleasure.

paul.williams@gleanerjm.com