Bucket-list breaks: from relaxing nature to invigorating adventure, why Jamaica should be your next getaway

Breathtakingly beautiful, Jamaica is home to rolling mountains, wild rivers, dramatic waterfalls and magnificent golden beaches, as well as bustling towns and a buzzing cultural scene.

It also offers wonderful hospitality, so what better way to experience it than in an all-inclusive, adults-only, luxury resort, where you can leave the stresses of everyday life behind? Whether for a dream honeymoon, special anniversary, or simply a romantic break, Sandals Resorts promise an unforgettable stay.

No one knows Jamaica quite like Sandals, the luxury travel brand which was founded by Jamaican-born entrepreneur Gordon “Butch” Stewart in 1981. Stewart wanted more people to discover the island he loved – and to experience it like never before, in complete luxury. The first ever Sandals resort opened in the island’s Montego Bay and remains a flagship resort today. But over forty years later, there are now seven all-inclusive Sandals resorts on the island to choose from, each offering a different but equally indulgent way of experiencing this magical destination.

The most recent addition, Sandals Dunn’s River, opened last year. Sitting on the island’s north coast, it’s named after one of Jamaica’s natural wonders, the nearby Dunn’s River Falls. The resort’s accommodation is inspired by and incorporates the uniqueness of this landmark, with the water that flows through the resort sourced directly from the natural reserves of the Dunn’s River Falls, from the lobby waterfalls to the cascading pools of the Red Lane Spa.

Wherever you look in Jamaica, you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty. There are the beaches, of course, from sheltered coves to long stretches of white sand, such as the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril. These are set against a backdrop of lush greenery, hidden in which you’ll find tumbling waterfalls, winding rivers and secret swimming spots. Every Sandals resort is not only surrounded by stunning scenery but is a part of it, with resorts featuring lush tropical gardens, white-sand beaches and views of crystalline waters.

Jamaica is the perfect place to satisfy a thirst for adventure too. From zip-wiring through the rainforests to swimming in the famous Blue Hole, to catamaran cruises and even bobsledding. As part of the all-inclusive Sandals package, guests can enjoy unlimited watersports, including scuba diving for certified divers, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and windsurfing.

Then again, you may prefer to do absolutely nothing, which is also fine. Be pampered in a tranquil Sandals Red Lane Spa, or simply sit back and relax by your choice of pool – at the new Sandals Dunn’s River there are five to choose from, including two lengthy river pools.

Jamaica is famous for its food, and, as delicious as it is, there’s much more to try than the island’s signature jerk chicken. Opt for braised oxtail, curried goat and fish caught fresh from the ocean that day. Every Sandals resort has an abundance of dining options to choose from, all included in the price of your stay. As well as sampling local cuisine you can choose from upscale seafood and steak restaurants, gourmet French, Japanese and Italian spots, beachside dining, street-food shacks and salad bars.

And don’t forget about the island’s famous rum, best enjoyed in a delicious cocktail while taking in an ocean view. Jamaica is well known for its vibrant night life, and you’ll find plenty of that at Sandals resorts, too. Enjoy reggae grooves, watch steel pan bands, marvel at fire-eaters and dance the night away at beach parties.

All seven Sandals resorts in Jamaica offer a choice of luxury accommodation options, from butler-serviced villas with private pools to luxury suites with ocean views or swim up rooms.

If you want total seclusion, in addition to its mainland resort, Sandals Royal Caribbean boasts its own private island off the coast of Montego Bay. Sandals Royal Plantation, situated in Ocho Rios, is Sandals’ only all-butler, all-suite resort and has a storied history, with Ian Fleming and Noel Coward having stayed there. Sandals Dunn’s River features first-of-their-kind swim up butler suites with a private pool and tropical garden, taking luxury to the next level.

Whichever resort you choose, the all-inclusive experience means everything is paid for upfront, including food, drink, activities and transfers. So you can focus on more important things, like experiencing everything this incredible island has to offer, including that famous laid-back Caribbean living.

To find out more about Sandals incredible all-inclusive Caribbean getaways and plan your perfect luxury break, visit Sandals