Trinidad and Tobago Hiking Paragrant Bay

Overlooking the hilltops that surround the Moka Golf Course, there is a secluded settlement known as Paragrant. The entrance to the area is on Fond Pois Doux Road located two miles from the Pillars on the Maracas North Coast. The name Fond Pond Doux is a Patois word that refers to a “Place with a Sweet Background” and the sceneries along the crest are fantastic. This road is a bypass route that leads to the summit of Paramin in an area called Barre La Vie or Crows Nest.

There is something magical about the place, its gentle quietness and refreshing mountain breeze all seem to be in harmony with one another. Along the ridge, there are magnificent views of the coastline and surrounding valleys. One will notice that the area mostly have French names because the Maraval and surrounding environments first to be developed by French Farmers. On the southern side splendid sceneries of La Silla or Saddle Road, The Moka Estate, the Champ Elysees Estate also called Fields of Happiness or Country Club and the Paradise Estate or Queens Park Savannah. On the northern side panoramic views of Saut D'eau Island, La Vache Bay, and the Caribbean Seascape and to the west the chive plantations of Paramin and Cameron. In recent years, development of the landscape continues to increase with the design of rugged concrete roads, increase housing and supply of electricity.

At the bottom of the Valley, there is a secluded beach, known to villagers as Mal-D'esto-Mac Bay, or “Bad Stomach." The name may either refer to the roughness of the sea or the steep ascent in getting to the top.The one-hour expedition down to the beach begins on a concrete road and diverges from the main path into a forest trail located on the right. Still noticeable in the woods are the dilapidated and abandoned cacao trees showing evidence of its rich heritage. Along the way, happy greetings from friendly villager Dougla who welcomes visitors to stop, have a drink of water and sample some seasonal fruit.

The beach is half mile long with silky soft sand. During the summer months from July to September, the sea is calmer and most inviting. On the western end of the bay, there is a stream with an invigorating pool that is ideal to refresh oneself for the upward journey. The return to the top is at the eastern end of the beach along a semi- concrete road that is sure to test one’s fitness. The uphill trek will take 1½ hour, but the scenic ambience makes it enjoyable. The serenity of the valley along with the splendid views of Timberline, Cyril Bay, Lovers Bay and Negmawah turns this challenging walk into a pleasurable accomplishment.