After ascending the primitive winding mountain road to 2500 ft you walk down a short jungle path to this brand new private cottage. It was built by hand using Jamaica’s National Tree, the Blue Mahoe hardwood for exclusive use by guests and visitors. Sleep like royalty on the Queen size pillow top mattress with crisp 100% cotton percale linens. Climb the spiral staircase to your private veranda overlooking the lush jungle. The space The Blue Mahoe is a sustainably built octagonal cabin that features a queen sized pillow top mattress, a veranda with glass dining table and comfortable chairs, an open air bathroom and just beyond the spiral staircase you will find a outdoor shower. The cabin is outfitted with a mini fridge, flatscreen TV/Dvd player, games. local art, yoga mats and panoramic view of the mountain and gardens below. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the sunset. To ensure an stress-free start to your vacation, many of our guests opt for our private airport transport. This convenient service not only allows you to relax from the moment you exit customs. Simply inform us, and we will happily arrange your booking with our licensed red-plate driver. Please inquire about current rates. We offer local, organic “farm to table” meals served to you in Mel’s Kitchen. For a meditative or romantic “vibe” you may request to have your meals served to you on your private veranda. All breakfasts include fresh juice or smoothie, fresh fruit, organic coffee, as well as hot entrees featuring farm raised eggs, Jamaicas national dish called Ackee & Salt Fish, banana pancakes, veggie omelets and much more depending on your dietary requirements* Lunch & Dinner includes traditional Jamaican dishes of local fish, locally grown chicken or Jamaican Fusion depending on dietary needs* *We cater to plant based, vegan or Ital, vegetarian, keto & gluten free diets. Just let use know how we can best accommodate you. Guest access You will have full access to your private cottage, offering a serene retreat surrounded by lush botanical gardens. Feel free to explore and enjoy the beauty of the gardens at your leisure. Additionally, you're welcome to join the vibrant local scene—whether it’s playing dominoes at the nearby shops and bars or interacting with the friendly locals in the community. Immerse yourself in the authentic Jamaican experience right here. Other things to note Welcome to Mel's Botanical Retreat, a Jamaican-owned and operated haven that has proudly earned the prestigious Airbnb 'Super Host' badge each year since welcoming its first guests in June 2017. At our retreat, we strive to provide a holistic experience that goes beyond just accommodation. We offer convenient transportation services to and from the Montevo Bay International Airport (MBJ) In addition, our knowledgeable drivers are available to take you to the best Jamaican-owned and operated attractions, hidden gems, and local hotspots, ensuring an unforgettable journey throughout your stay. In line with our commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, we also offer a range of eco-friendly community tours. Embark on immersive experiences that allow you to connect with the local environment, interact with the community, and gain insights into Jamaican traditions and way of life. Whether it's exploring pristine nature reserves, visiting vibrant local markets, or participating in cultural workshops, our tours are designed to create meaningful connections and promote sustainable tourism practices. To tantalize your taste buds, we take pride in offering Organic Farm-to-Table meals prepared with love and care. Our menu features a diverse range of options, catering to various dietary preferences and requirements. Indulge in delicious dishes made with locally sourced chickens and fresh local fish showcasing the flavors of Jamaican cuisine. We also provide options for vegan, vegetarian, keto, and gluten-free diets, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a culinary experience tailored to their preferences. Beyond the delectable meals created for you the owner Kiara, Mel's Botanical Retreat is a sanctuary of tranquility and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms, our retreat offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance, rejuvenate your mind and body, and find solace in the harmonious connection with nature. By choosing Mel's Botanical Retreat, you not only embark on a remarkable vacation but also support a local Jamaican-owned business that is deeply rooted in the community. For those seeking unforgettable experiences while supporting the local community, we offer guided eco-tours for a small fee. These immersive tours provide an opportunity to connect with the locals and directly contribute to their well-being. Eco Beach Hike with Local Guide: Embark on a scenic hike through the jungle, experiencing the local flora and fauna as you make your way to Bluefields Beach. This highly sought-after experience has left our guests captivated, with many returning year after year. The duration of the hike is approximately 5-6 hours, allowing ample time for you to enjoy the beach. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes for this adventure. Along the way, you can stop by the river to rinse off the saltwater and indulge in a delicious lunch of Jerk chicken at Omar's. Mountain Hike with Local Guide: Embark on a journey of our mountain community accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. Explore the coffee and banana farm, meet locals that we see along the way and experience breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea below. The duration of this experience is approximately 1.5-2 hours Our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and providing exceptional experiences has earned us the Airbnb 'Super Host' recognition, a testament to our dedication to ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. Join us at Mel's Botanical Retreat and discover the beauty, warmth, and vibrant spirit of Jamaica. Let us create an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, culinary delights, and heartfelt connections. We can't wait to welcome you to our retreat and share the best of Jamaican hospitality with you. What are the average monthly temperatures ion the mountain ? Month Min Temp Max Temp January 22.7°C (72.9°F) 28.1°C (82.6°F) February 22.6°C (72.6°F) 28.3°C (82.9°F) March 22.9°C (73.2°F) 28.6°C (83.5°F) April 23.9°C (75.0°F) 29.3°C (84.7°F) May 24.6°C (76.3°F) 29.7°C (85.4°F) June 25.4°C (77.7°F) 30.7°C (87.3°F) July 25.7°C (78.2°F) 31.0°C (87.8°F) August 25.8°C (78.4°F) 31.0°C (87.8°F) Sept. 25.6°C (78.1°F) 30.6°C (87.0°F) October 25.2°C (77.4°F) 29.8°C (85.6°F) November 24.2°C (75.6°F) 28.9°C (84.1°F) December 23.4°C (74.1°F) 28.6°C (83.4°F) In the tropical climate of our location, the evenings can occasionally become cool and breezy. To ensure your comfort, we recommend bringing along flip flops or slippers for convenience, a light jacket or sweatshirt to keep warm, and lightweight pants or leggings to adapt to cooler evening temperatures.