The Caves
Location: Jamaica
Characterful cliffside cottages perfect for romance
Location: Jamaica
Website: thecaveshotel.com
Poised on the limestone cliffs of Negril’s scenic West End in Jamaica, this seductive oceanfront sanctuary hits the spot for authentic island charm, and is particularly popular with honeymooners. The 12 cliffside cabins (louvred windows, four-poster beds, wicker accents), exclusive dining experiences in a private candlelit cave, a rum bar by the water’s edge and a sea-view spa offer a refreshingly organic interpretation of romance.
It’s close to Negril’s seven-mile beachfront and vibrant town centre, yet feels wonderfully detached at the same time. Negril has a reputation for being an off-the-beaten-path traveller’s utopia, and its recent rise in popularity has done little to compromise that standard. The area is also great for snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing and dolphin-watching trips, as well as hiking and horse riding.
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Local area
Over on the west side, Negril is a slightly quieter alternative – so much so that it’s been referred to as the “Capital of Casual”. Highlights include Seven Mile Beach, one of the top 10 in the world with its postcard-perfect stretch of powdery sand, shallow waters, and beachside restaurants – and the cliffs resort area where a visit to the famous Rick’s Cafe is an absolute must. Grab a rum punch there and watch the death-defying dives of cliff-jumpers before making your way down Norman Manley Boulevard for spicy smoked jerk at Best in the West – or freshly grilled lobster at Arthur’s Beach Bar. Though the resort is widely dispersed, Downtown Negril is abuzz with Reggae bars, restaurants and some colourful nightlife.
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For a slice of wellness, another big-hitter is the Blue Hole Mineral Spring. Said to process therapeutic properties, the waters are ideal for a refreshing dip. There’s “Reggae Rafting” (a trip down the Great River on a bamboo float) at Lethe, as well as countless water sport expeditions like scuba diving, snorkelling, and kayaking that The Caves’ concierge can book.
The Caves’ position just down from Rick’s Cafe means you’re slightly removed from the touristy throng yet still close enough to enjoy the local attractions – so you really get the best of both worlds. The 12-key all-inclusive makes the most of its setting, too; parts of the hotel, like the Blackwell Rum Bar, are fashioned out of the cliff rock, and access to the sea is via a series of jumping-off points. Sangster International Airport is about 90 minutes’ drive away.
Discover more about The Caves here: thecaveshotel.com