Great architectural work seen here on this house in Dolphin Bay. And if only the camera could capture it all in its glory sitting comfortably on a vast expanse of land, even boasting a beautifully landscaped garden with a gazebo. - Photos by Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

Located between the parishes of St Thomas and St Mary, Portland is home to some of the most fabulous beaches in the island. Loved by locals and foreigners alike, people trek miles to the parish to experience and take advantage of the amazing views, relatively untouched vegetation and breathtaking vistas.

While some have to travel far and wide, there are those who live comfortably in this mountainous and hilly part of the island. The parish is also home to Titchfield High School, historic Boston jerk community, Reach Falls, the picturesque (if under-utilised) marina, remnants of superb Georgian architecture, Frenchman's Cove and the incomparable Blue Lagoon.

Outlook recently travelled to that part of the island to find some of the more upscale communities in the parish. While there were many houses that caught our eye, it was apparent that the communities were inconsistent in the types of houses constructed. We spotted many houses being renovated in several communities.

1. Fairly Hill Gardens

Just walking distance from the privately owned Winifred Beach and Boston Jerk Centre, this community is in construction mode. Many of the newly constructed homes have two levels and the ones in the making follow closely. With most of the houses finished and a few still being renovated, this is said to be one of the better communities to live in.

2. Drapers

In proximity to beaches such as San San and Frenchman's Cove, bungalows are in the minority here. Close to the famous Jamaica Palace Hotel, it seems to be quite a peaceful and comfortable area to settle.

3. Dolphin Bay

With one of the entrance across from the Trident Hotel, this community is the home of many small resorts and villas like Match resort and Faith Cottage. These small establishments definitely send up the value of homes situated in this community.

Sources: jamaicans.com

http://en.wikipedia.org

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com

The palm trees which line the fancy entrance and the beautiful greenery complement the aesthetics of this house in Dolphin Bay.

With no neighbours in proximity, this two-storey house stands alone on a large lot near the border of St Thomas and Portland.

The builder decided to go all out with decorative stones on this beauty in Anchovy Gardens.

Portland receives most of the rainfall in the island and the vegetation is always lush and green.

It seems to be one of those small, cosy-type villas, but it's in fact a home to someone in Drapers. Check out the various species of shrubs and plants. Beautiful isn't it?

Facts about Portland:

Portland is a famous destination for rafting in the Rio Grande.

The parish features 14 caves and 17 rivers.

It is the birth place of Jamaican-born and Canada-based billionaire Michael Lee-Chin.

The parish has also been referred to as the parish of jerk, made popular by the experts at Boston jerk centre.

Home to may hotels and resorts including Jamaica Palace, Dragon Bay Villas, Goblin Hill Hotel, Jamaica Crest, Fern Hill Club and Mocking Bird Hill.