By Shelly-Ann Thompson, Freelance Writer
HIGH ABOVE the surrounding lush green countryside in Yardley Chase, St. Elizabeth, Lover's Leap is surrounded by little fanfare a restaurant/bar, balconly and the sweeping vista.
The 1747 story of Mizzy and Tunkey who chose death, rather than being separated by their master, Chardley, is, of course, heartrending.
However, while most visitors come for the romantic tale of two slave lovers who jumped to their deaths (Jamaica's version of Romeo and Juliet), it's the mesmerising view that keeps them spellbound.
Here, the shades of blue sky meet the warm turquoise hues of the sea, providing a panoramic backdrop that stretches miles out to Rocky Point, Clarendon, on the left, and to Pedro Bluff in St. Elizabeth on the right. Located east of Treasure Beach, Lover's Leap is a steep 1,700-foot cliff overhanging the rough waters of Cutlass Bay beach below.
I was totally captivated by the awesome view from the moment I walked through the arched green shrubbery which lined the path leading to the restaurant/bar. Couples, while taking in this view at Lover's Leap, will
surely get an instant urge to embrace, seeking warmth from the chilly breeze.
WHAT TO DO WHEN THERE
Put on your smile and have your picture taken.
Enjoy the local cuisine served at dinner (only).
Although the cushioned swings were destroyed during the passage of Hurricane Ivan last September, there is a beautiful and well-manicured lawn on which couples can cuddle and await the unbelievable Lover's Leap sunset. Remember to take your camera, because you'll want to capture the golden rays of the sinking sun.
The adventurous types can also take the three-mile trek down to Cutlass Bay. The climb down to the beach takes an hour and a half, however, getting back up takes up to three hours. Down at Cutlass Bay there is a cave which is reportedly a popular spot for camping out.
As a token of love, couples can buy wall plaques, mugs, and trinket boxes engraved with 'I Love You', as well as drawings and paintings of love. Copies of the book Lover's Leap by Horane Smith are also on sale.
ABOUT LOVER'S LEAP
Lover's Leap is owned by Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) but is managed by local entrepreneurs.
Lover's Leap is opened between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. each day
Tours are $100 per person,
including one photograph.
TO GET THERE
Lover's Leap is about 17 miles
from Alligator Pond, St. Elizabeth, and about 10 miles from Junction in the parish.
