We celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary at Sandals Dunn’s River, an adults-only retreat in Jamaica. The scenic drive to the resort was a prelude to the stunning Jamaican landscapes that awaited us, setting the stage for a truly romantic escape. Stepping into the resort, we were greeted by the island’s renowned warmth, instantly feeling like we had entered a slice of paradise.

Our Sandals Dunn’s River accommodation featured a private pool on our balcony, perfect for unwinding while taking in the views. A romantic surprise awaited us in the form of a rose petal bath, a pleasant surprise arranged for our anniversary. In the mornings, there is often music. One morning, there was a violinist playing as we strolled to breakfast, a magical start to each day.

Dining was a highlight, with multiple gourmet options available. We really enjoyed at L’Amande, known for its French style offerings. My favourite was our dinner on the pier under the starlit sky. I’ve done dinner on the beach and what I like about the pier is you don’t have to worry about the sand, creating the ideal romantic evening without the inconveniences of sand or bugs, thanks to the pleasant weather in January.

The adventure was not amiss; we delighted in snorkelling and diving, embracing the vibrant marine life of the Caribbean. Sailing on a hobby cat was another joy, allowing us to experience the refreshing breezes and stunning ocean views. At Sandals, all the activities are included in your stay, even diving.

The exceptional butler service at Sandals Dunn’s River elevated our stay and added a touch of luxury. Our butler was always on hand to cater to our needs, from garment steaming to arranging private transfers, ensuring we felt truly pampered throughout our stay. They took care of everything from our dining reservations to a reserved location on the beach. We didn’t have to think about any logistics and just focused on enjoying our stay.

We also captured our special moments with a professional photo session recommended by the hotel, creating lasting memories of our love and celebration.

The resort’s dining and bar scene is extensive with many options available for lunch and dinner. We experienced Sandals’ first Greek dining concept at Edessa, offering spectacular ambiance and cuisine. Post-dinner, we sipped cocktails at Dunn’s Rum Club, known for its extensive rum collection and tantalizing Jamaican-inspired tapas, like the oxtail sliders. The sophisticated Lapidus Lounge + Bar provided a perfect space to unwind.

BLUM’s unique coffee shop concept was our go-to for casual day snacks. It offers a cozy setting for the superb coffee Jamaica is known for and light bites, ideal for a mid-day indulgence.

The resort allowed us to tailor our activities, ensuring a perfect balance of excitement and tranquillity while providing a luxurious escape from the everyday.

We received a media rate at Sandals Dunn’s River but as always all opinions are my own