“I’m on the top of the world, looking down on creation.” That lovely song, sung by the amazing Karen Carpenter, comes to mind at Mahagony Ridge, where we are level with the clouds.

Perched high in the lush Northern Range of Trinidad, Paramin offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, its waters shimmering under the tropical sun. Among its terraced hillsides and winding roads lies a hidden gem—a sprawling garden upon a hilltop, where vibrant blooms and dramatic foliage create a paradise of colour and tranquility. 

Paul’s garden is a masterpiece of natural beauty, carefully cultivated to thrive in Paramin’s cool and, in the rainy season, misty climate. The elevation provides a refreshing breeze, carrying the scent of the surrounding forested areas. From this vantage point, the view stretches endlessly, with rolling green hills descending toward the south and to the north, the sea meets the sky at a blue horizon, a bit muted during our visit by atmospheric Sahara dust. This dust is an important form of foliar fertilizer for the forests, not just of Trinidad and Tobago but throughout the tropics, inclusive of the great Amazon basin.

Dominating the slopes to the north are the majestic King-of-the-Jungle Alpinias (Alpinia purpurata), their towering stalks crowned with bold red or pink bracts that resemble exotic tropical crowns. These striking plants thrive in the rich, well-drained soil of Paramin, their lush foliage adding a dramatic touch to the garden. Their vibrant hues contrast beautifully against the greens of the surrounding vegetation, making them true monarchs of the floral kingdom. 

Anthurium lilies, with their glossy, heart-shaped spathes glowing in shades of red and pink, can be seen lining the driveway to the house and along paths into the surrounding forestry. These tropical beauties thrive in the humid mountain air, their waxy blooms lasting for weeks. Their presence adds a touch of sophistication, their deep green leaves providing the perfect backdrop for their radiant flowers. 

Draping over rocks and short stone walls and filling spaces adjacent to the house are Boston ferns. They bring a soft, feathery texture to this part of the garden. Their delicate fronds sway gently in the breeze, creating a sense of movement and life. These ferns love cool, shaded corners but tolerate the harsh tropical sun once watered adequately, making them a very versatile filler. Adding more movement to the garden was a swing, strong enough to entice a few of us to have a go.

Even though well outside of Christmas, poinsettias add splashes of red to this beautiful garden. Their vibrant bracts standing out against the greenery, their rich colour intensified by the mountain sunlight. In Paramin’s temperate climate and the minimal light pollution, these plants flourish, their cheerful hues bringing year-round festivity to the landscape.  The Cordylines too, numerous and resplendent in their colours, fully saturated in the micro-climate of Paramin.

Beyond the visual beauty, this hilltop garden is a sanctuary for the soul. The rustling leaves, the distant call of birds, and the occasional hum of a hummingbird sipping nectar create a symphony of nature. Visitors can stroll along pathways, pausing to admire the flowers or simply to take in the breathtaking sea view. 

While imbibing the surrounding we were taught on the toxic but beautiful Potato Tree (Solanum erianthum) and the many members of the Aloes family and their uses. Thanks go out to Sophia Dillon and Cheryl Blackman for the very well researched and presented knowledge.

In Paramin, where the mountains meet the sky and the sea stretches beyond the horizon, this garden stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. It is a place of serenity, colour, and endless wonder—a true paradise on a hill. A paradise called Mahagony Ridge Bed and Breakfast. Thank you, Paul Duval, for your hospitality, it was a wonderful experience for us all.