How to Get a Buzz in the Jamaican Jungle
The infinity pool at Strawberry Hill. Photo by Josh Lay.
We sent the chillest guy we know (and his video camera) to Strawberry Hill in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains. He’s still feeling the high.
JAMAICA - Strawberry Hill, one of the cream-of-the-crop spots owned by Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell (the legendary record producer responsible for turning the wider world onto reggae music), is nestled 3,100 feet above sea level in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most coveted coffee producing regions.
The secluded mountain retreat has tropical gardens shading luxury cottages all around its 26-acre property. There’s an infinity pool and a bar serving cool drinks and conversation among music paraphernalia and an upright piano. A rarity for Jamaica: There’s also a working fireplace for cool nights.
A vacation here is a vacation from the Jamaica you think you know. Instead of frozen cocktails on the beach, you’re in for insane poolside views, lush hikes, cool breezes, and misty midnight air. There are hundreds of species of flowers, trees, and birds, only interrupted by coconut stands and cool roadside jerk shacks that cling to the mountainside.
What’s more impressive: I drank the best damn cup of coffee of my life somewhere 4,000 feet up in the mountains at the family-run Old Tavern Coffee Estate. I’d travel pretty much anywhere for a cup of joe like that.
Needless to say, the unexpected island experience left me with quite the buzz.
A Visit to Strawberry Hill and Old Tavern Coffee Estate
Who doesn’t like visuals? Here’s a tour of the highlights.
Book a Stay at Strawberry Hill
Rates change seasonally and start at $310/night. Click here for reservations, or get in touch with the Fathom Travel Concierge and we'll plan your trip for you.
Explore More of Jamaica
The Ultimate Jamaican Food Tour with Legendary Local Chris Blackwell
Reggae Tones in Jamaica