In a quiet corner of the Caribbean are The Caves, a boutique hotel nestled on the limestone cliffs of Negril on the west coast of Jamaica. This hedonistic hideaway consists of twelve cottages and suites, each one with a character of its own. This multi-layered tropical paradise is connected by winding cliff paths that give the feeling of complete privacy and seclusion as you make your way to your room.
The lucid blue sea below is perfect for snorkelling and swimming, as well as a great way to explore some of the more out-of-the-way caves. Also, if you were to swim around the headland from this romantic retreat, you would find yourself on Negril’s superb seven mile stretch of white sand beach.
The Caves cater almost exclusively to couples (no children allowed!), offering massages and spa treatments, dining in private candlelit caves strewn with flower petals, and a private ocean-view jacuzzi that can be reserved for sunset. All of this is sound-tracked by the gently lapping waves of the Caribbean Sea. Now really, is there anything more romantic than that?
The Caves,
Lighthouse Rd,
Negril, Jamaica
+44 0 1895 200034 (UK)
Google map: tinyurl.com/ycaw2un
www.islandoutpost.com/the_caves/
Negril's famous seven mile beach stretches from the cliffs leading up to the famous Rick's cafe in the west to the private beaches of Hedonism on the east. And what a stretch of beach it is, perfectly sandy with plenty of bars and shops around combined with the chilled atmosphere of Jamaica.
Even though I went at a time where there weren't many people around it still had a great atmosphere and was unforgettable.
By day bathe yourself in the steady warm waters of the beautiful Caribbean ocean and dry out on the beach in a lounger with a nice rum cocktail. By night you can continue with the rum in one of the reggae nightspots (Alfred's, Bourbon Beach, Roots Bamboo) which has top Jamaican artists performing with live bands.
It's just such an easy place to get along with the only thing you can argue about is that it's not to be done on a small budget!
Bar at the end of Negril beach on the cliffs with live music, cliff jumping and a generally great atmosphere.
A waterfall which you can swim in with rope swings to swing and jump off. It's great fun and the water is cool and so a lovely break from the heat.
I hired a scooter from Negril and went on my own. I had a small tourist map, it's easy to find as it's well signposted. Also the journey from Negril is great with a good opportunity to see towns and countryside away from the tourist areas. Leave jewellery at home and take just money for they day. Alternatively most hotels will do coach trips there.
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