Zion Country

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Zion Country - Long Road, Muirton Pen, Portland
Tel: - (1 876) 993-0435
Website - www.zioncountry.com

Zion Country is an eco beach cabin resort located close to Manchioneal and Reach Falls. The ethos of Zion Country is eco and community tourism, offering guests the opportunity to experience a slice of rural Jamaican life whilst enjoying the resort's beautiful surroundings and private beach. The resort is a great choice for eco-tourists, backpackers, nature lovers and those on a low budget. The natural vibe may not, however, be for everybody; especially those who prefer 5 star all-inclusive tourism.

Zion Country is built on a steep slope which leads down to a private beach. Perched on the slope are 4 wooden 2-bedroom cabins which each have a veranda overlooking the bay, (and each veranda has a hammock). The communal bathrooms are supplied with rain water caught on the property and include outdoor wash basins with mirrors angled to give sea views.

To help guests to get away from it all the cabins do not have telephones, televisions or air conditioning. For those looking for more home comforts there are rooms available in the main house with private bathrooms.

Activities

Many guests at Zion Country like to spend their time around the property, swimming, reading, relaxing and chatting to other guests and staff. Because the resort is built in harmony with nature a wide variety of wildlife can be seen at Zion Country, such as tropical birds, butterflies and fireflies. Lucky guests may even spot dolphins or the family of manatees which are known to frequent the bay.

For those who want to explore more of the area trips are organised to many destinations including Kingston, Port Antonio, Reach falls, Boston Bay and St Thomas. Community based trips, such as a visit to a local school, are also available.

Nightlife usually revolves around sitting by a campfire or lounging on your veranda, looking out to sea. However, if you feel like partying there are frequent street parties in the local community with sound systems playing reggae and dancehall music.

History

Zion Country was established by Free-I who moved to Jamaica from the Netherlands in 1996. He purchased 1 acre of land in Portland and set to work on building an eco-resort which would engage the local community, the work took 5 years to complete. The resort was totally rebuilt in 2008 following extensive damage caused from Hurricane Gustav.

* Photographs used with kind permission of Free-I of Zion Country

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