Explore 

Jamaica is a rich, diverse and beautiful country, from its golden beaches to its wild rivers and waterfalls, its lush forests and mountains, and at Mel’s Botanical Retreat, we offer unforgettable experiences high up in the hills. 

You can birdwatch, meditate, read, play board games, cards or dominos, or simply while away the hours in a hammock. You can bask in the glorious views and sunsets from your private veranda. You can simply enjoy ‘being’ with family, friends or yourself.

However, a world of experiences awaits you if you step outside the retreat. You can support the local community with guided eco-tours, which provide an opportunity to connect with the locals. Please contact us in advance or while at the retreat and we will be delighted to help you to create a memorable and personalised experience during your stay with us.

Testimonal It was just what we wanted - in the mountains, away from hordes of tourists, on a lush and lovely part of Jamaica – Amy, USA

Eco beach hike with local guide
A scenic hike through the jungle, experiencing local flora and fauna, culminating with a dip at Bluefields Beach. This highly sought-after experience has left our guests captivated, with many returning year after year. The hike takes approximately five to six hours, allowing you ample time to enjoy the beach. Along the way, you can stop at the river to rinse off the saltwater and indulge in a delicious lunch of Jerk chicken at Omar’s.

Mountain hike with local guide
Embark on a journey of our mountain community where we will explore the area in the company of a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the coffee and banana farm and meet locals who we see along the way, while enjoying breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea below. This experience lasts approximately an hour-and-a-half to two hours. 

Bespoke tours
We offer fully customisable private charter tours that allow you to explore various destinations in Jamaica based on your preferences. You can combine multiple tours and visit different destinations – here’s a non-exhaustive list based on reviews from past guests. 

Benta Falls
One of Jamaica’s best kept secrets, this family friendly attraction features seven beautiful waterfalls and a breathtaking blue lagoon. 

Abeokuta Paradise Nature Park
Thirteen acres of former plantation, this park features a large swimming pool filled with spring water and you can hike to a small waterfall during the rainy season.

Blue Hole Mineral Spring
Jump off a cliff or climb down a ladder to swim in the inviting blue water in this karst hole. Or mix up some of the mineral rich clay with water and use as a skin scrub. There’s also a spring-fed swimming pool for the less adventurous. 

Yahso Jungle Adventures
River Tubing Adventure: Bring your swimming costume and water shoes, grab a water tube and life vest, then spend an hour or so tubing down the river enjoying the scenery and the rapids.

Other tours can also be incorporated into your bespoke itinerary. These include – but are not limited to – the following areas:

South Coast
YS Falls; Pelican Bar; Black River Safari; Peter Tosh Memorial; Appleton Rum Factory; Lovers’ Leap; Little Ochi; Jack Sprats/public beach access; Private beaches for beachcombing.

Negril
Horse riding at Jam West; Snorkelling at Seven-mile beach; Blue Hole Gardens; Craft market; Sunset at Rick’s Café; Live reggae at Alfred’s; Cliff jumping at Xtabi; Live reggae at Roots Bamboo; Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville; Scuba diving and certifications; Deep sea fishing charters; Snorkelling tours; ATV adventure at Jamwest Adventure Park.

Ocho Rios
Dunn's River Falls; Blue Hole Ocho Rios; Prospect Plantation; River tubing; Mystic Mountain; Bob Marley’s birthplace at Nine Mile, St Ann.

Montego Bay
Rose Hall Great House; Rocklands Bird Sanctuary; Craft market; Luminous Lagoon.
 

Testimonal There are many nice spots to discover and there community is super friendly. One of the best spots in Jamaica! – Cristina, Switzerland