When it comes to vacation time, I'm more of the relaxing kind. I'd rather do the occasional touristy sightseeing mixed with a nice siesta and a swim in the ocean leaving the hiking, adventure sports and the likes for others.
But, sometimes, I'm tempted to move my arse and do something different. During a pretty relaxing yet busy (too many activities) cruise in the Caribbean, my first attempt at trying something new was going snorkeling in Bonaire. If you have ever been on a cruise, you will know that the number one activity on board is eating. Towards the end of the little trip, the eating five to six times a day was taking its toll and I had gained a good 5-6 kilos. So, I made a conscious decision to go hiking to the Middleham Falls in Dominica as a way to be a tad adventurous and get some proper exercise.
Mr. Green
The Man Flower
I had booked my tour through the ship's travel desk and as a result found it to be well organized. Dominica is also known as the "Nature Island" so it came as no surprise when our well informed guide introduced himself as simply "Mr. Green". The bus ride was pure bombardment of information about the local flora and hard to find fauna. I hadn't hiked in almost a decade, so once we reached the starting point, I was a bit apprehensive, but eventually took that small step across a stream (and partially fell into it) that in my mind was the line of no return.
The Stream of No Return
The hike was a good 45 minute walk with a bit of climbing, a bit of Tarzan like swinging (planned in advance by the guide), and a lot of experiencing the wonders of nature (we got to try a leaf that tasted just like an apple!). The hike in itself was a little strenuous with a couple of extreme climbs, but nothing an average person could not do with a good pair of shoes and a water bottle.
Good Shoes Required - Unfortunately mine were not
Reaching the Meddleham Falls, the previous 45 minutes simply seemed to have disappeared. With the water crashing down in the pool below and the rocks, it was a truly wonderful sight. Mr. Green at this point climbed up 40 ft and jumped into the base pool which was 20 feet deep. After some deliberation, I finally decided to descend into the pool (no 40ft jump required), into icy cold water that literally was the most refreshing shower I had had in my life.
Mr. Green Takes the Plunge
Middleham Falls
Heading back after a half hour swim, the quietness of the forest finally struck me. Not tired anymore, just hearing distant footsteps of the hikers along with bird calls was what nature is all about. With the thought of a nice rum punch waiting for us on our return, I walked back admiring and appreciating the beauty of nature.
Appreciating Nature
A great place to walk
Tired!
So, the stroll back to the bus along with the dip in the plunge pool has to be the highlight of the entire trip. Wait! Maybe, watching a couple of girls hiking to the falls wearing heels (Oh Yeah!) was the highlight. Nevertheless, if you are ever in Dominica, I recommend taking half a day off to hike up to the Middleham Falls followed by nice chilling taste of the local beer, Kubuli.
Refreshing!
Cheers!
