Above: Rockhouse in Negril
By Guy Britton
NEGRIL — People often say Negril is two places; the cliffs and the beach. We say Negril is countless places and different experiences. Some of the best hotel experiences in the world are created by the many small hotels that dot this fabled shoreline, and the variety and range of experiences one can find is stunning. Here are eight great small hotels in Negril we love:
Rockhouse
Award-winning and world-class, Rockhouse is simply an amazing small hotel. It has 34 rooms and villas designed so the natural beauty of the place surrounds and seduces you. Yoga classes, spa treatments and two great restaurants make it hard to leave.
The Caves
This luxury all-inclusive property is in a class by itself. You can feel a rhythm the minute you step inside this place, where music is part of the experience. The legacy and success of this small resort are about the way of life that is unique to Jamaica. The natural beauty of the setting, the architectural genius and craftsmanship bring it all together.
The Spa Retreat Negril
The Spa Retreat just might redefine small spa resorts. The Spa is run outdoors in the open, in shaded areas without walls. Sweeping views of the pool and the sea over the natural stone pool deck are part of the spa experience. The rooms are low-density cottages that fit into the cliffs, offering a natural, modern feel.
Tensing Pen
Many of the waterfront rooms literally hang right out over the water. The sound of the sea on the cliffs and the breezes off the ocean make air conditioning a poor second choice. Here, the garden rooms are each uniquely hidden in a private world of trees, lush shrubs and birds. And the restaurant, the pool deck and yoga deck all have amazing oceanfront views.
Idle Awhile
Slow down and take time to enjoy life is the fundamental design concept and vibe at Idle Awhile. Just eight stylish rooms and six chic suites are located right on seven mile beach. Chill Awhile is the Beach Café and Hide Awhile is their villa resort on the cliffs.
Rondel Village
This well-run property is a quintessential Negril beach hotel. From three- bedroom villas to value priced garden rooms, many of the rooms are freshly updated and modernized. The full service Village Spa is one of the best in Negril. The Rondel Restaurant on site serves local dishes and fresh produce grown on the property.
Sandy Haven
35 beautifully designed and decorated rooms, full service and attention to detail make this small hotel a luxury experience. Spa and wellness programs, wedding packages, meeting facilities provide truly comprehensive service. It also has a great beach bar with plenty of atmosphere and Bongos, one of the best gourmet dining restaurants in Negril. Sandy Haven is the complete package.
Country Country
If an artist were to paint a small hotel onto canvas, Country Country would be the result: 20 colorful cottages nestled along a shady path to 7 Mile Beach. Designed by world-renowned Jamaican architect Ann Hodges, the cottages are nestled in lush gardens and fit the location.