Forres Park Nature Retreat

Dinner and breakfast cost $3700 Jamaican dollars, which felt very reasonable. They cooked dinner to order and it was delicious. I enjoyed eating breakfast in the forest and spotting a hummingbird. They even got juice specially for me, and switched on a water feature that sounded like a forest waterfall. The staff were friendly and said renovations were underway, with plans for a pool and bar. It sounds like it could be fabulous when that's done. For now, it really is a forest retreat, with not much else to do, which is fine if that's what you're after. The best part was being outside at 5am, listening to the forest and watching the sun rise over the mountain. That was heaven. Unfortunately, American guests often played loud music, and some started at 6:30am, disturbing the peace. I slept just about OK. The mountain air is cool, though my room was very hot. There were lots of mosquitoes, but the room had a net and a fan. When I first arrived, I wondered what the hell I'd done. The place looked run down and like a building site. I just wanted a shower, but it didn't work properly. The TV had no channels, the bathroom was awful, and my room key had a grubby piece of masking tape on it. Wi-Fi only worked in certain parts of the building. I would've given it five stars if not for the bathroom and the inconsiderate guests playing music.

I stumbled across the place and got a tour. The owners were pleasant to talk with. The rooms are small but still spacious, with an antique forest feel and a few modern touches. It's cool, quiet, and secluded, with a lovely garden and mountain views. And the Jamaican food is hard to beat. I love it, and I'm looking forward to staying there.

There were lots of birds to see, and Shanique, the host, cook, and housekeeper, was very nice and welcoming. That's the only good I can say about the place. The owner should be ashamed. I've stayed in grass huts in better condition. The game room upstairs had rusty darts, a ping pong table without balls, and a pool table missing balls. The house is slanted, so the balls slide into the pockets. There's no spa, and you pay separately for everything, including water, meals, and housekeeping. The place is way overpriced. I honestly felt scammed. We arrived at noon and left at 8am the next day. It's neglected and worn out, clearly seen better days. The rooms are old, hot, and damp, and the floors are uneven because the house is sinking. It's near a busy street, with motorcycles passing all day and night. So much for a retreat. Save your money.

Really love this place. The air is clean and cool, even cold, and the vibe is relaxing. Hot water and breakfast can be included. I 100% recommend it for a weekend getaway.