Our Story 

Melessia Cynthia Rodney, the founder of Mel’s Botanical Retreat, was born and raised on this beautiful mountain, 2,500 feet about the Caribbean Sea in Jamaica. When she was younger, nothing thrilled her more than walking down to Bluefields Beach with her mother, father and seven brothers and sisters when visitors from abroad would come to stay at her father’s coffee farm. 

This home has been in the family for seven generations. In 2015, Mel started renovating and expanding the property to include three verandas, electricity and indoor plumbing, eventually opening her home to visitors in 2017. In 2018, the ‘Blue Mahoe’, a romantic cabin overlooking the gardens, was added to the portfolio of rooms.

Tragically, Mel – along with her unborn baby, Kye – passed away from Covid-19 complications in July 2021. 

But her legacy lives on. Mel’s daughter Kiara has assumed the mantle of preserving, and building upon, her original vision, best described in Mel’s own words: “I’m passionate about many things, but my top three include meeting and hosting guests and visitors from around the world, my amazing daughter, Kiara, and, of course, gardening.”

Learn more about Mel’s vision for the retreat and for her community in this video.

Our ethos

This is a magnificent, pristine part of Jamaica, and we strive to preserve its beauty. As a Jamaican woman-owned property, we are dedicated to community tourism.

We have meticulously constructed all of our structures on the property using sustainable hardwood and carefully selected recycled materials, ensuring a harmonious blend of natural aesthetics and environmental responsibility. We work with skilled local carpenters who, whenever possible, select fallen wood, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to construction and furnishings. 

We rely solely on rainwater for all our water needs, harnessing the pure essence of nature. Luckily, we are not prone to water shortages up in the Kentucky mountains! We also use essential oils and gentle natural cleaners, respecting both the wellbeing of guests and the delicate balance of our surroundings.

We compost all of our food scraps, returning valuable nutrients back to the earth, as well as supplying reusable bags for our guests. And, although recycling centres are not widely available in Jamaica, we remain steadfast in our commitment to environmental stewardship, actively recycling glass bottles and repurposing materials.

Testimonal The place is amazing with a beautiful garden and a stunning view – Sebastian, Germany

Nestled within our sanctuary, we have dedicated ourselves to nurturing a thriving natural habitat that welcomes an array of enchanting creatures, including the iconic doctor bird, or swallowtail hummingbird (Troichilus Polytmus) – the national bird of Jamaica. We have created an environment that embraces the diverse beauty of birds, butterflies and other local species; it is an honour to provide a sanctuary these species.

But, people are also part of the environment here and we are proud to work with our vibrant local community. We prioritise the use of locally sourced ingredients, supporting local farmers; every meal at our retreat is a celebration of our community and its produce. 

Should you feel the urge to explore the area, the welcoming neighbourhood of Kentucky awaits. A short walk from your cabin brings you to lively conversations, reggae music, local beer and rum at the pub. Engage in games of dominoes or bingo, or watch impromptu and entertaining cricket matches, while immersing yourself in the local ambiance.

We also work with local guides from our mountain community. Embark upon a scenic hike through the jungle, experiencing the local flora and fauna as you make your way to Bluefields Beach, where the most incredible turquoise sea and bleached white sands await you. Or explore the local area in the mountains, including the coffee and banana farm, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. See Explore for more details, and for other tours.

BOOKING ENQUIRIES