Strawberry Hill

Strawberry Hill is an architectural masterpiece nestled on the steep slopes of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains (so named because the rain coming from the clouds that form directly above their peaks give them a distinctive blue hue). The hotel is spread over 26 acres of tropical gardens, at an altitude of over 3,000 feet. As well as the cool, fresh mountain air, guests are treated to panoramic vistas over the lush mountain landscapes, with Kingston below and the Caribbean Sea beyond.

The elegant architect-designed cottages sit in the gardens, nestled within the contours of the mountains, and each veranda is angled to make the most of the views, giving each cottage its own unique vista. Reached via winding footpaths in the mountains, they are secluded and private, and they range from studio suites to two-bedroom villas with kitchens and sitting areas, so there’s something for everyone.

The white, wood-framed cottages take inspiration from traditional plantation and colonial styles, and have comfortable four-poster beds with African fabrics, mahogany wood floors, and finely-carved touches by local craftspeople, who work in the hotel’s own workshops. The bathrooms have signature Blue Mountains toiletries featuring local mint and rosemary.

Feast on the exotic flavours of the Caribbean at the restaurant, which serves up hearty traditional dishes such as lamb curry and fish stew, which are given a modern, innovative twist. For dessert, try the warm bread pudding, served with a splash of Blackwell’s rum. Enjoy the restaurant’s romantic candlelit setting, or dine on the veranda beneath the stars.

Sip a cup of the famous Blue Mountain coffee on the Great Lawn in the morning, and in the evening, treat yourself to a rum punch (or two…) in the cosy wood-panelled bar, accompanied by music from the vintage piano.

The striking infinity pool offers some of the best views, making it a rather special place for a swim - or simply relax poolside and drink up the scenery. Walk down the flower-scented paths to the spa, tucked into a nook of the mountainside, which has indoor/outdoor treatment rooms where the spa therapists will ensure you leave relaxed and revitalised: we recommend the signature Blue Mountain body scrub.

Make the most of what’s right on the doorstep - go on a trek through the mountains, walk through the clouds, swim under waterfalls and visit local villages.

If you fancy a trip to the beach, head to Lime Cay Beach, which is on its own tiny, uninhabited island. This paradise isn’t that far away, reached via a 50-minute drive to Port Royal, followed by a 15-minute boat ride. The island’s crystal-clear waters are great for snorkelling too.