Paragrant Bay

Paragrant or Mal-D'esto-Mac Bay on Sunday 25th August 2019

Overlooking the Moka Golf Course, there is a small settlement known as Paragrant.  Access to the area is on the Fond Pois Doux Road located 3km north of the Pillars on the Maracas North Coast Road. The name Fond Pond Doux is a Patois word that refers to “a place with a sweet background” and Paragrant has some of the most breathtaking landscapes. Situated to the west one can see the rolling hills of Paramin, with views of the summit Barre La Vie and to the north a picturesque view of Seau Deau Island. 

On the northern side of Paragrant there is a secluded beach knows as M’al Destmac Bay or Bad Stomach. The name either refers to the steep ascent to get back to the top of the hill or could also refer to the conditions of the sea. However, during the months of July and August, the beach is usually calm and inviting.

There is something magical about Paragrant, everything seems to synchronize into perfection. It’s fascinating landscapes, peacefulness and the refreshing northerly winds. The region first developed by French estate owners who planted Cacao. They gave the place French names La Silla or Saddle Road, the Moka Estate, the Champ Elysees Estate also called Fields of Happiness or Country Club. In recent years, new development is happening with increase housing, concrete roads, and electricity.

The journey down to the Mal Destomac beach will take an hour and starts on a concrete road that diverges from the main path into the forest. The expedition can be done as a circuit returning from the other side of the valley. Still noticeable on the trail and a reminder of its rich heritage are the dilapidated cacao trees.  Along the way, it is always a pleasure to stop and pay a visit to Dougla and his family, who is one of the friendly villager greeting all and shareing some of his seasonal fruit.

Mal-D'esto-mac/Paragrant Bay is approximately a km in length with silky smooth sand. On the western end, there is a small stream with a refreshing pool to rinse. The return to the top will take 1½ hour and is along a steep semi-concrete road. The short uphill walk is a test of one's fitness, however the picturesque seascape of the La Vache Bay makes it enjoyable and turns the trek into a pleasurable accomplishment.