The drive to YS falls was quite interesting. Of course we got lost a couple times, and at one point we drove through a small town where we kept seeing signs for shrimp. My husband and I were a little confused simply because we were nowhere near the coast, so we couldn't figure out where the shrimp would be coming from and why everyone was trying to sell us some. So our curiosity finally got the best of us and we decided to stop and see what it was all about. Here we learned that the river that went through town was filled with fresh-water shrimp, so we walked up the road a little and my husband decided to try this local delicacy.
We got back in the car and headed out again to try to find our destination of the day, YS Falls. We had to take a tractor-pulled jitney to get to the actual falls. So while waiting for the next tractor we changed into our bathing suits and decided to try out another Jamaican cuisine. The Jamaican patty. Delicious!
Now many people have heard of Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and although it is beautiful, with all the cruises, and the popularity of Ocho Rios Dunn's River has become another tourist trap. YS Falls is the complete opposite. It is tucked away in a scecluded area, recieves few visitors, is extremely relaxing, and in my opinion, much more beautiful. Here is a little history of the falls. . .
YS was originally a cane farm, with a factory. YS Estate was also a supplier of logwood for export to Europe. The heart of the logwood tree was used for the purpose of making dye.
By 1887 the property had changed hands many times and was held in the Encumbered Estates Court in London. At that time, Great Grand Uncle (John Browne) of the present owner, Tony Browne, had traveled to London to purchase a property in St. Ann. However, upon arrival in London, that property had been sold. John Browne wanting a property with a river running through it bought YS Estate, sight unseen.
YS continued to grow cane, reap logwood trees and raise cattle. With the introduction of synthetic dyes, the need for logwood dwindled. In the 1960’s cane was phased out. In the 1950’s, the present owner, Tony Browne, started to breed and raise thoroughbred horses. Tony Browne continued the breeding and raising of cattle, but now, focuses on the Jamaica Red Poll cattle, which is a pedigreed herd.
Simon Browne, youngest son of Tony Browne, opened YS in 1992 to the public, living out his lifelong wish. However, Simon Browne only wanted to admit 25 persons a day, but the popularity of YS Falls exceeded that. However, Simon monitors numbers to ensure that the natural beauty of YS is not destroyed by inquisitive feet.
By 1887 the property had changed hands many times and was held in the Encumbered Estates Court in London. At that time, Great Grand Uncle (John Browne) of the present owner, Tony Browne, had traveled to London to purchase a property in St. Ann. However, upon arrival in London, that property had been sold. John Browne wanting a property with a river running through it bought YS Estate, sight unseen.
YS continued to grow cane, reap logwood trees and raise cattle. With the introduction of synthetic dyes, the need for logwood dwindled. In the 1960’s cane was phased out. In the 1950’s, the present owner, Tony Browne, started to breed and raise thoroughbred horses. Tony Browne continued the breeding and raising of cattle, but now, focuses on the Jamaica Red Poll cattle, which is a pedigreed herd.
Simon Browne, youngest son of Tony Browne, opened YS in 1992 to the public, living out his lifelong wish. However, Simon Browne only wanted to admit 25 persons a day, but the popularity of YS Falls exceeded that. However, Simon monitors numbers to ensure that the natural beauty of YS is not destroyed by inquisitive feet.
We boarded the jitney, and were driven through an amazingly beautiful countryside before reaching the actual falls. The falls are about 120 foot high, and consist of 7 levels. Steps were built on the side to make easy access to the top, and there is even a spring fed swimming pool at the bottom for those who just want to relax. We decided to start at the top and work our way down. One of my favorite things about this place was that there were employees there to take pictures (with your own camera) and they were NOT permitted to ask for tips.
The falls were crazy gorgeous, and we wasted no time getting in the water. There were even natural vines if you wanted to try out your Tarzan impersonation (which my hubby did.) We stayed until the last jitney was leaving, then headed back to Negril.
Wonderful pics.
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