Along the shores of Jamaica’s rustic but serene south coast there lies a tranquil little seaside village that is gaining increased popularity for its unspoiled beauty and relaxed surroundings.
There are not many places where parched soil, barbed wire fences, prickly shrubs, a mostly rocky shoreline and modest cottages blend together to create an absolute getaway that is paradise for the weary soul. But Treasure Beach in St. Elizabeth has blended and markets this well, which is why more and more visitors are flocking the boutique hotels, villas and restaurants that make up this closely knit community.
At first sight it might not tickle your fancy, but look beyond that and what you will find are many of the features from what Jamaicans refer to as the ‘good old days’. There are no miles of white sandy beaches either, just pockets of brown sand patches dotting a jagged shoreline. However, you will be delighted by the total peace and tranquility that will overcome you and the sumptuous cuisine that is spiced with loads of local flavour, as well as, hints of European flair (depending on where you stay) that will enliven your taste buds.
Treasure Beach is perfect for someone who wants to completely rest and relax or those who want to spend quality time with family or friends in privacy. The place is far removed from the growls of vehicle engines, the toot of horns, annoyingly load music or the inquisitive stares of those you want to keep out. All you will hear is the sweet whistle of the winds playing great tunes with the crashing sound of waves. In Treasure Beach people greet each other by name and neighbours look out for each other. There, nobody makes any extra effort to bolt doors and secure windows or precious possessions. The spirit of the people is as free as the cool sea winds that sweep the coastal community.
The experience in Treasure Beach is uniquely different from other parts of the island, which the inhabitants are doing a good job at keeping that way while sharing it with those who come from near and far.
Axel and Andrea Wichterich are among those who have come from afar and have been captivated by the charms of Treasure Beach, so much so, that the transplants from Cologne, Germany have put down roots in this fledgling south coast community after visiting on vacation in 2001.
“For my husband it was the people and for me it was the people and the (free) spirit,” Andrea Weichterich said of her experience, adding that the life saving medical treatment she received when she became ill while here in 2003 was also a major factor in the decision to migrate to Jamaica.
For the Weichterich’s selling a piece of Treasure Beach was a natural vocation on settling in Jamaica and so they decided to purchase what was then a bed and breakfast in 2003 to make what is now Marblue Verandah Villa Suites, one the many boutique and guest cottage outfits where visitors to the area can stay. Marblue is a luxury boutique hotel that lets its guests breathe easy, Mrs Weichterich boasted, noting that this was the remark from one of her many guests.
It offers a touch of luxury in a rustic setting complete with fine food and exquisite dining right by the sea. The small property, which you will find along a marl road just off the Treasure Beach main road, is a make up of eight luxurious villa suites all with fantastic views of the turquoise ocean. The décor and furnishings – all locally made - have true island flair with a modern touch.
The food is even better! Experience a bold fusion of Jamaican cuisine with European flair. Your taste buds will come alive with one of the many culinary delights of the award winning resident chef and owner Axel, made from only the freshest fruits, vegetables and seafood sourced from local farmers and fishermen. The king fish cooked down in rich coconut sauce and simmered with fresh seasonings of sweet pepper, scallion and onions and served with a healthy serving of rice and peas is nice too. For the upcoming Christmas you can expect a wide assortment of traditional selections done with a European twist. The menu at Marblue is ever changing as the hotel operator tries to cater to a wide array of tastes so most choices are done to order by Axel and his sidekick Weston.
