Discover Falmouth, Trelawny, In Jamaica
Jamaica is an island in the Caribbean Sea, so you automatically think of sea and sand. And this is not bad, as we are known for our white sand beaches and turquoise waters, where vacationers and locals thrive under the tropical sun. Jamaica is an island paradise, and we have been one of the islands for centuries that were either under British, Spanish or French rule. We were a significant part of the Transatlantic Slave trade in the 1700s. It is situated 18 miles east of Montego Bay, and we are talking about Falmouth, the capital of the parish of Trelawny. Yaad Vacations is here to help you discover Falmouth, Trelawny, in Jamaica, and what it offers as a vacation spot.
Discover The Parish Of Falmouth, In Jamaica
The History Of Falmouth
The town of Falmouth was founded by Thomas Reid in 1769. Falmouth was the main market centre and port for forty years when Jamaica was the world’s leading sugar producer. The town was named Falmouth, Cornwall in England then became a Jamaica County. The then Governor of Jamaica, Sir William Trelawney, is the primary driver of establishing Falmouth as the capital of the parish of Trelawny—at a place previously Martha Brae Point.
During the late 19-20th century, because of the sugar trade, Falmouth was one of the busiest ports in Colonial Jamaica at the time. As a result, many skilled people lived there as it was a good place for employment. The skills included masons, carpenters, tavern keepers, sailors, and planters. The town was booming with a mixture of wealthy people from different ethnicities-race was not a factor.
There were one hundred sugar plantations producing sugar and rum for export to Europe, which was the mainstay of the parish. And Jamaica, during this period, was the world’s leading sugar producer. Falmouth was a central hub of the Triangular Transatlantic Slave trade in the Atlantic. The town solely depended on slavery and its offerings economically.
Modern-day Falmouth, A Tourist Destination
The Glistening Waters
The Glistening Waters is Falmouth’s Luminous Lagoon, where the Martha Brae River and the Caribbean Sea meet. The blend of these two bodies of water creates bioluminescence micro-organisms, resulting in a hauntingly breathtaking glow at night once you disturb the water. The Glistening Waters in Falmouth is only one of four such phenomena worldwide. And Jamaica is the only location where the luminary reacts to experiencing 365 days a year, regardless of the temperature or the weather.
The Glistening Waters in Falmouth is an experience you should not miss once you are in this part of Jamaica.
The Hampden Estate Rum Distillery
Jamaican rum is one of the best in the world for the discerning palate. And Hampden Estate Rum Distillery in Trelawny does not disappoint. The distillery was established in 1950 and still uses the processing for rum which is over 250 years old. The tour will find you on the distillery grounds, where you can soak up some natural scenery. You also have the privilege of sampling some delicious rum from their stock. The Hampden Great House, while on tour, you can also enjoy a good meal of local fare.
Please note you must be 18 years and older to take this tour, and you should wear sensible shoes for traversing the distillery and grounds.
Discover Falmouth While Ziplining
For the thrill seeker and adventurous at heart, Falmouth has an exhilarating experience for you! The adrenaline rush is yours for the taking zipping through Falmouth’s lush, green vegetation.
There is no other place like this to experience nature at its finest. And if you are the thrill seeker you are, you can follow through with Mystic Mountain’s Zipline Canopy Tour. Interestingly this rainforest challenge is worth the time as you view the world-renowned Dunn’s River Falls while ziplining. Just imagine this unique experience seeing the falls hundreds of feet from above.
And this is another incredible way to discover Falmouth, Trelawny, in Jamaica.
Rafting On the Martha Brae River, Another Part Of Falmouth, To Experience
Do you remember Martha Brae Point we mentioned above? Well, the locals have crafted a rafting business on the Martha Brae River for you to experience. The rafts are 30 feet long, native bamboo from the area, prepared to mimic the Gondolas of Paris, France.
Raft captains with knowledge of the three-mile-long river pilot you on the river, allowing you to bask in the warm sun, surrounded by the beautiful flora and fauna that only Jamaica has to offer. The “Rafter’s Village” is on six acres of land, offering gift shops loaded with souvenir items, a picnic area for enjoying some delicious Jamaican food, and a bar.
There is, of course, Miss Martha’s Herb Garden. Miss Martha runs the herb garden and is ready to educate you on the many herbs indigenous to Jamaica for treating anything that ails you. And this is another of the unique experiences for visitors to discover Falmouth, Trelawny, Jamaica to add to their memories. Who knows, it can be a learning experience as well.
The Falmouth ATV Tour/ Horseback Ride
You must come to this side of the island and plan to do the ATV tour. It is an experience you will never forget. Any outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate this tour, as it takes them to places visitors may never see. It would be best to pack bug-repellant spray and a change of clothes, as you will be in for a wild ride. The ride takes you through muddy trails, wildlife and dense vegetation, hence the change of clothes and bug spray.
Horseback Riding In While You Discover Falmouth
A horseback ride is ideal for the individual who needs to take it easy. A slow pace riding through Falmouth is a definite must. You will experience the town at the speed you desire. The tour suits experienced and non-riders, as the horses are calm-spirited and will make you comfortable riding. Local companies offer a class or two, so there is no need to be timid.
If this is a one-day stop for your cruise ship vacation, the guide will take you from the dock to the stables. You get the perfect temperament horse for you, and you are on your way, exploring Falmouth. Some places you will experience are the beach, past sugar cane fields, and rugged and beautiful green spaces. And this is a good option for getting a taste of what a vacation in Jamaica can be like should you plan a trip here.
Sightseeing at Historical Sites In Falmouth, Trelawny, Jamaica
A history buff will certainly enjoy sightseeing at some of the historic buildings. The rich history of the town is great to discover more about in Falmouth, Trelawny, in Jamaica. Remember, the Falmouth you will see is buildings from the 1700s.
- You will see these magnificently restored Great Houses In Jamaica dating back to the time of slavery:
- The Rose Hall Great House- in Montego Bay, about 30 minutes outside Falmouth- hear the story of the White Witch of Rose Hall and her many escapades of killing her husbands( Rumors, of course).
- The Good Hope Great House in Trelawny- you can go river tubing, buggy ride, or ziplining to see everything in its vast and magnificent colours. In contrast, the exhilaration of the ride is nothing short of memorable.
- Rose Hall Golf Course is open to you, those who are golf enthusiasts. It is one of the best in the world.
The day is not over; you can relax and enjoy a cold Red Stripe, some Jerk chicken or pork, ‘fried fish with festival’ or whatever is on the menu. The eateries along the Falmouth port are the place to be.
Falmouth, Trelawny, Jamaica, has much to offer as a tourist vacation spot. To experience all this and more, only book a cruise or plan a vacation at any resort nearby, and you will have the time of your life!!
Source:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falmouth,_Jamaica
2. https://www.visitjamaica.com/blog/post/insiders-guide-to-falmouth/
3. https://bamboobeachclub.com/about-us.html
4. https://www.sandals.com/blog/things-to-do-in-falmouth-jamaica/
