Jamaica Comes Alive in the Coyaba River Garden

Most of us booking Caribbean villas in Jamaica are hoping to enjoy the country's sun-kissed beaches and wondrous natural environments.

Most of us booking Caribbean villas in Jamaica are hoping to enjoy the country's sun-kissed beaches and wondrous natural environments. Yet while many of these luxurious facilities boast well-manicured grounds and breathtaking views, vacationers heading to Jamaica to get a sense of the natural beauty of the island nation can explore much of the native flora and fauna at the Coyaba River Garden and Museum.

The Coyaba River Garden is a luscious water garden that is fed by streams that rise throughout the facility. The grounds house countless arrays of tropical plants and animals, as well as multiple lookouts that provide awe-inspiring views of the entire island. Central to the facility's appeal is the scenic Mahoe waterfalls found in the area, a serene and calming sight to happen across while hiking through the lush jungle setting.

Also on the site is the Museum of Island History, a classic Spanish colonial building that will allow you an inside look into the local cultures. The museum focuses specifically on the endemic Taino and Arawak cultures, two Caribbean tribes that date back to the pre-Columbian era. The site also boasts a natural aquarium that is home to a number of tropical aquatic life including koi carp, mullet, snappers and turtles.

Travelers can commemorate the experience by stopping in the onsite curio shop, which sells a number of unique cultural souvenirs perfect for the kids, as well as bottles of locally produced rum for the adults. You may also enjoy a cup of locally brewed Blue Mountain Coffee on the stone courtyard that overlooks the jungle from on high.

After a long day spent exploring the natural treasures of the Caribbean nation, retiring to luxury rentals can be a great way to enjoy your stay in Jamaica. Though there are many wonderful options in the area, Hanover Grange is certainly among the best villa vacation rentals in the country. Originally designed as a summer home for European art collectors, this six-bedroom villa still features pieces of local art and offers open living spaces, modern stylings and fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. Foodies will enjoy that much of the food prepared by kitchen staff is grown onsite, while leisure lovers will enjoy taking a dip in the large infinity pool.