On the Blanchisseuse coastline there are a number of secluded beaches only accessible by boat or by passing through private lands or hiking off beaten tracks along rugged terrain. Many of these beaches are secret gems known mainly by fishermen and village folks. Over time the raging intensity of the ocean has eroded the landscape to create small rock islands along its shores. The Spaniards called the North Coast, “Costa del Hierro”meaning, the Iron Coast. 

               Blanchisseuse is one of the first settlements influenced by French immigrants after the proclamation of the Cedula of Population of 1783 Spanish Governor Jose Maria Chacon invited these farmers to open estates and develop the country. It remained one of the most isolated villages and up until 1928 the only way to get there was by coastal steamer. Supplies were brought in by sloops or sail-boats. In 1931, the 24-mile road from Arima was finally constructed and in the late1970's the 18-mile North Coast Road completed. Its hilly terrain, high mountains, dense forest and rough seas made it difficult for the expansion of large estates. Today, village livelihood comes mainly from fishing, short term agriculture and government projects.

Over the years, the popularity of Blanchisseuse has grown immensely. Its fascinating coast and pristine river remains one of the best places for nature adventures. It is the starting point for numerous hiking destinations and a place that offers the option to do a variety of tours including fishing, bird watching, rappelling and river canoeing.

There is so much rich history that needs to be highlighted and preserved. Like how it got its name and its meaning. In 1869, the explorer Charles Kingsley was the first Englishman to make his way through the forest to visit Blanchisseuse. Another landmark built in 1835 is the Roman Catholic Church “Our Lady of Mt Carmel" .The two bells that hang gracefully in front of the church,one originated from Bristol England was donated by the British in 1835 while the other came from Lyon France in 1878. A prominent person who grew up in Blanchisseuse was Sir Solomon Hochoy, who in 1960 became the first local Governor and in 1962 became Governor General.

Among generations Blanchisseuse has still maintained parts of its French and Spanish heritage and many of its beaches have creole names example T Del Mar (Spanish for the sea) and Anse Paoua (French for the bay).However with no official signs to secure it's history the original names of these beaches are becoming lost by modern development and self interest nature enthusiast. Just like they did in the village of Paramin, It is time for the relevant authorities of Blanchisseuse to recognize the significance and erect signs to show the authentic names of streets, beaches, rivers and waterfalls.

On Sunday 10th January 2021 ,Island Hikers explores the secluded beaches of the Blanchisseuse Coastline. For more details contact mario 7492956 or islandhikers.com