Castleton Gardens in St. Mary, just across the St. Andrew border.
Set off some sparks this Valentine's season with a romantic rendezvous with your honey. Here are some of Jamaica's love spots, but hey, there are plenty more.
Mayfield Waterfalls, Glenbrook, Westmoreland:
This is the nature lover's
paradise. Be prepared to
experience the falls and its
21 natural pools, underwater caves, natural spas, an Arawak-style village with petting zoo,
and cliff jumping.
The picturesque area is also famous for its mineral rich waters and is a favourite for locals because of its 'healing streams'. Situated on a five-acre property close to Hanover, Mayfield Falls is a great spot for camping, hiking and picnicking. The River Walk tour at the Falls is an exuberant experience.
Castleton Gardens, Castleton, St. Mary:
This garden in south St. Mary provides a respite for locals. The sky high branches of the garden's ancient trees also provide homes for an array of exotic birds and wonderful lounging areas for visitors.
Castleton Garden which sits on 10 hectares of land boasts the best collection of plants (more than 400 specimens) on the island, and a pretty pond that beckons to those seeking peace and tranquility.
Take the time to explore
further afield, wander down
the flagstones and discover the beauty within.,
James Bond Beach, Oracabessa, St. Mary:
Twenty minutes from Ocho Rios, James Bond Beach is spectacular with its crystal clear water. The lush mountains of St. Mary also make for an amazing backdrop that reaches straight down to the sea.
James Bond Beach is well known for its offerings of fresh fish and seafood served at the bar and grill.
James Bond Beach also offers tours which go past the famous Golden Eye property (where Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels) and the home of the famous reggae group UB40. A trip on this watercraft will also yield some of the island's most breathtaking views.
The Gap Café and Gift Shoppe, Hardwar Gap:
BORDER OF ST. ANDREW
AND PORTLAND:
This café provides a personal setting for lovers who want to get away from the everyday activities and concentrate on each other. Along with a
delicious meal at the restaurant, couples can wander through the property while enjoying the view of the Blue Mountains and the cool breeze. The location is about 4, 200 feet above sea level in the mountains overlooking Newcastle, St. Andrew, with
vistas of Kingston and the surrounding hills. It is believed that Ian Fleming wrote parts of Dr. No in the house on the
property. The Blue Mountain coffee alone is worth the visit.
Marblu Hotel, Old Wharf Road, Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth:
This property is quaint and intimate -- perfect for lovers. With fewer than 10 rooms,
privacy is ensured. The view from the rooms, overlooking Black River, is breathtaking.
The food is fantastic and the hotel offers personalised service.
Putt n' Play, Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston:
Forget about Tiger Woods. Concentrate on each other and your swing. Putt N' Play is about having fun, and there is a bar where couples can communicate while having refreshments.
Murphy Hill, St. Ann:
Quiet and secluded, Murphy Hill overlooks the resort town of Ocho Rios. With only a few rooms available, it's a definite winner for couples who want to spend some alone time nestled in the arms of nature. From Kingston, get there by going through Moneague -- watch for the signs or ask locals for direction.
Island Village,
Ocho Rios, St. Ann:
This is not your ordinary mall. With its picturesque buildings, open air setting, boardwalk,
natural spring lagoons and
beautiful flowering trees Island Village can provide a refreshing experience for lovers.
Situated on the beach, just minutes away from the Cruise Ship Pier, Island Village is one of Jamaica's newest attractions. Couples can also visit The Reggae Xplosion, an interactive reggae exhibition; the Internet Jungle; Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville; Eight Rivers Gaming Centre; duty free shops; or simply relax on the beach.
Doctor's Cave Beach Club, Montego Bay,
St. James:
This bathing club, founded in 1906, is nestled between the Marine Park and the Hip Strip of Montego Bay, St. James. The translucent water is known for its mineral content and the world-famous white-sand beach is clean and inviting. More than just a great beach, the food court and beach bar at Doctor's Cave provide a variety of meals and drinks to satisfy the taste buds. The convenient cyber café also keeps you in touch with the world. (But then again you'd be too wrapped up in each other, right?)
Inns and Hotels across the island:
Spicy Hill Villa,
San San, Portland:
This delightful refurbished
five-bedroom boasts a fabulous pool and spa.
Rio Vista Resort Villas,
St. Margaret's Bay, Portland: Nature's best offers a panoramic view of the Rio Grande River, valley, Blue Mountains and Caribbean sea; with individual private cottages which are very intimate.
Moon San Villa, Blue Lagoon, Fairy Hill, Portland: It only has four bedrooms and four baths, retaining the elegance and atmosphere of a private residence.
Runaway Bay HEART Hotel and Training Institute: Amid the lush green hills of Runaway Bay is the Runaway Bay HEART Hotel and Training Institute. It's a stately plantation-style manor resting on its own plateau overlooking the Runaway Bay Golf Course.
The Hotel has 56 air-conditioned bedrooms with adjoining private balconies that make way for a spectacular view of the golf course and bay.
Whispering Bamboo
Cove, Retreat, Morant Bay,
St. Thomas:
A serene blend of island beauty secluded on the scenic south coast of Morant Bay. With
brilliant sunsets and a breath-
taking view of the Caribbean Sea, it's a romantic getaway.
Then of course there's
always Negril. Check out the
all-inclusives or if you prefer
the small boutique-style hotels like Tensing Pen, Rockhouse
and Country Country.
