Perched 3100ft above Kingston, serene Strawberry Hill offers spectacular views from its infinity pool, over the Blue Mountains and down to the sea. It’s cooler up here, and since the 1940’s this has been the place to go for a traditional Sunday tea. Chris Blackwell (founder of Island Records) bought the 26-acre property as a family home in 1972, but it didn’t become the first Island Outpost hotel until 1994.
The 19th-century Georgian style cottages dotted about the exotic hillside garden have maintained much of their old fashioned rustic-chic charm. Many famous musicians have enjoyed the peaceful setting, simple luxuries, and spectacular views. As with all the Island Outpost properties there is a refreshing lack of corporate uniformity, and the blend of friendly staff, first class spa, musical history and relaxed surroundings works well. Strawberry Hill really doesn’t feel like a hotel - more like the family home it once was. Perfectly located for checking out Kingston and the Blue Mountains, this is also a fabulous place to unplug and unwind in spectacular, safe surroundings.
Highs
- Mesmerising views of lush mountains and huge skies; even at night, the sparkling lights of Kingston twinkle beautifully in the distance
- An abundance of handmade details: nothing here is rolled out en-masse
- High “Princess-and-the pea” mahogany beds with immaculate sheets are bound to give you a great night's rest
- There are some exceptional excursions to be had; we loved our trek with Rasta Dave - a gentle walk to a breath-taking waterfall
- The peace and quiet with a background reggae beat makes it very easy to lose track of time
Lows
- It can be cool and damp up here in winter (one local called it “Arctic”) but bring a jumper and use the electric blanket
- Timber walls with plantation shutters mean the peace can be disturbed by your neighbours or, occasionally, music from local parties
Best time to go
The hotel is usually shut in September, and undergoes a gentle upgrade on a room-by-room basis. It may also be forced to close at 24-hours notice during Hurricane season (officially June-November, though August and September are peak months).
The hotel hosts different events: album launches, model shoots, music videos, and Backgammon tournament weekend in April/May (serious players only). Guests will be advised if their visit is likely to clash with a major function. The hotel will be full when the cricket is in town!
The hotel hosts different events: album launches, model shoots, music videos, and Backgammon tournament weekend in April/May (serious players only). Guests will be advised if their visit is likely to clash with a major function. The hotel will be full when the cricket is in town!
Our top tips
Jamaica is a wonderfully diverse island, and this is a perfect way to get under its skin, far from the coastal resorts.
Bring a jumper or coat - and leave the jacket and tie behind (our in-room reading stated: "In keeping with the casual atmosphere of Jamaica, jackets, ties, and formal clothes are never required"). Walking boots and binoculars are also useful. A trip to the waterfalls usually means you will be IN the water as opposed to looking at it, so dress accordingly.
Bring a jumper or coat - and leave the jacket and tie behind (our in-room reading stated: "In keeping with the casual atmosphere of Jamaica, jackets, ties, and formal clothes are never required"). Walking boots and binoculars are also useful. A trip to the waterfalls usually means you will be IN the water as opposed to looking at it, so dress accordingly.