Welchman Hall Gully: A Collapsed Cave Paradise

Welchman Hall Gully offers a captivating glimpse into Barbados' natural history. This unique geological formation was once part of a vast cave system. Over time, the roof of the cave collapsed, creating a dramatic gully that is now home to a diverse ecosystem. Located in the parish of St. Thomas, the gully stretches for approximately three-quarters of a mile. Its sheltered environment fosters a wide variety of tropical plants and trees, including nutmeg, clove, bamboo, and majestic palms. It is also believed to be the original home of the grapefruit, a hybrid of the sweet orange and shaddock. Visitors can stroll along a well-maintained, shaded path, immersing themselves in a lush, green paradise. The towering trees create a natural canopy, filtering the sunlight and creating a cool, humid atmosphere filled with birdsong. The gully is also home to a troop of Barbados Green Monkeys, descendants of monkeys brought to the island from West Africa centuries ago. These playful primates can often be seen swinging through the trees or gathering at the feeding platform. Welchman Hall Gully is not only a place of natural beauty but also an important conservation area. The Native Plant Project aims to reintroduce native plants into their original habitat and preserve the island's biodiversity. A set of stairs near the entrance leads to a lookout point with panoramic views of the rolling hills of St. Thomas and the stunning coastline.