Tom Moore's Jungle

"In the early 19th century, the Irish poet Thomas Moore spent three months in Bermuda. His name is now used colloquially to describe the Walsingham Nature Reserve, known to most locals as Tom Moore’s Jungle. The 12-acre expanse of forests, caves, and secret swimming holes is one of the island’s loveliest, most secluded nature walks, offering an intimate look at all the things you might see on a more established tour (like Crystal Caves ). Networks of paths with trees arching overhead lace the reserve, ushering you deeper into Bermuda’s natural landscape. Walsingham is home to a modest mangrove forest, their roots protruding from the saltwater like claws, as well as less trafficked subterranean caves. But best of all is the adjoining Blue Hole Park , with its mid-sized sinkhole named for the dark-blue tone of very, very deep water." - Katherine Cusumano

"Tell us about this place. In the early 19th century, the Irish poet Thomas Moore spent three months in Bermuda. His name is now used colloquially to describe the Walsingham Nature Reserve, known to most locals as Tom Moore’s Jungle. The 12-acre expanse of forests, caves, and secret swimming holes is one of the island’s loveliest, most secluded nature walks, offering an intimate look at all the things you might see on a more established tour (like Crystal Caves ). Networks of paths with trees arching overhead lace the reserve, ushering you deeper into Bermuda’s natural landscape. So where should we go? Walsingham is home to a modest mangrove forest, their roots protruding from the saltwater like claws, as well as less trafficked subterranean caves. But best of all is the adjoining Blue Hole Park , with its mid-sized sinkhole named for the dark-blue tone of very, very deep water. How easy is it to navigate? You might get a bit turned around, but at just 12 acres, the so-called “jungle” isn’t quite wild or sprawling enough to swallow you whole. Stick to the path—or close to it—and you’ll be fine. Roots and rocks and the occasional scramble mean this is not a destination for visitors with limited mobility. Anything else we should know before planning a visit? Entry to the park is free. Of course, if nature walks aren’t so much your thing, consider one of the nearby beaches, instead." - Katherine Cusumano