Jamaica, one of the most picturesque and naturally beautiful islands in the Caribbean boasts mountains, jungle, white beaches, a rich history, fantastic food and of course famous Jamaican music! Two main airports, Kingston and Montego Bay service direct 9 hour flights 3 to 4 times a week between the UK and Jamaica, emphasising the utter excellence of the destination.
For something a little different, combine a stay at the beach with a short break in the Blue Mountains. Set high above Kingston on the steep slopes of the Blue Mountains, Strawberry Hill is a unique retreat owned by music industry icon Chris Blackwell. Having come to tea here with his mother for many years, a childhood dream was fulfilled when he purchased the hotel in 1972. Strawberry Hill became a haven for musicians and legendary Jamaican artist, Bob Marley, enjoyed romantic rendezvous here and found shelter and peace after threats to his life in the mid-1970s.
Strawberry Hills offers a whole new experience and the resort offers plenty of intimacy and privacy with just 12 beautiful cottages sitting on an incredible 26 acres of land. With an expansive spa, a breezy restaurant and bar, a hill top pool with panoramic vistas and ample relaxation space, the resort is a once in a lifetime experience!
Whether you are a relaxing by the pool type or seeking an adventure, the resort has plenty to offer you. After hikes through the lush green rainforest or enjoying a bespoke, private yoga class on the pavilion, guests are warmly welcomed to enjoy a meal at the restaurant. Dining at Strawberry Hill is a celebration of New Jamaican cuisine. Traditional dishes like lamb curry and fish stew get a subtle contemporary and local twist and Sunday brunch has become something of an institution for local families and guests alike.
The north coast is the home to some of the most idyllic resorts including GoldenEye and Jamaica Inn.
GoldenEye, another hotel owned by Chris Blackwell, was originally the holiday home of Ian Fleming and where he wrote all 14 of his James Bond novels – his writing desk still stands in Fleming Villa! Today, in addition to Fleming Villa, the property consists of 11 one and two bedroom Beach and Lagoon Villas, 6 Lagoon Cottages and one Ocean Front Villa. All accommodations are superbly locacted with beautiful countryside on one side then the white pristine beach on the other. Secret coves, private beaches, a seawater lagoon and tropical forests are just an exciting selection of the day excursions available to all guests. Bizot Bar, the beach bistro is perfect for lazy lunches or afternoon cocktails with your toes in the sand and for fine dining, head to The Gazebo which will meet all of your gastronomy desires. A spa is also on hand for those dreaming of a bit of R&R!
Jamaica Inn has been one of the Caribbean’s best loved hotels since the 1950’s and we love it too! Jamaica Inn offers the finest accommodation from 47 tasteful rooms to four private cottages all located on a stunning stretch of a white sand beach in Ocho Rios, again on the north coast. You can relax and be pampered in the KiYara Ocean Spa, offering a range of holistic and indulgent treatments. Once you’ve visited the spa (if you’re still awake!) the resort has much more to offer; snorkelling, kayaking and sunfish sailing!
In terms of dining, Jamaica Inn’s breakfast has been voted ‘the Best Kept Secret’ which can be personally delivered to your suite or you can enjoy on the terrace. Lunch the Seaside Restaurant is also not to be missed, which again can be brought directly to you on the beach! Dinner is no exception to the delicious food Jamaica Inn has to offer, a 6-course flavourful meal with a Caribbean twist which can be served under the stars along with a live band!
Discover more about the wonders of Jamaica and fantastic hotels from Turquoise Holidays!
