A Bird-Watching Destination in Jamaica: Strawberry Hill

Jamaica’s Strawberry Hill Welcomes Bird Watching Enthusiasts


Mountaintop Retreat Creates New Discovery Package and Bird Sanctuary for 24 Endemic Species

IRISH TOWN, JAMAICA (March 4, 2009) – The Strawberry Hill Resort lifestyle of peace and tranquility has added a few more perks to ecotourism; 24 to be exact. Jamaican endemic birds of the area have taken flight around the hotel grounds, but only now has their stay at Strawberry Hill been indefinitely extended. A bird sanctuary is currently in the works to make sure these guests truly enjoy their stay.

In order to accommodate the newest residents, Strawberry Hill Resort plans to create trails, position feeders, and set viewing stations throughout the exotic wooded area. Of the surrounding area, 20 acres of indigenous forest has been dedicated to a bird sanctuary for all bird enthusiasts, vacationers, and locals alike to enjoy.

Recently, world-renowned bird photographer Yves Jacques Rey-Millet spent three weeks at the Deluxe Highgate Villa to photograph the endemic birds of the Blue Mountains. He commented that, “In my 30 years of photographing birds, I have never seen so many endemics.” And he was able to photograph all 24 species in his short, three-week stay. His work is documented in a guide published by Strawberry Hill which included the Jamaican Blackbird, Crest Quail Dove and Arrow Headed Warbler, just three of the birds that make their home in this region drawing countless visitors to the area.

A new discovery and delight package, the Bird Watchers Breakfast, includes two hours of bird watching starting at 6:00 a.m. and returning for breakfast to be served by 8:30 a.m. Rates are $395 per room, per night for a one-bedroom and $495 per room, per night for a studio, based on single or double occupancy. Guests may choose from an authentic Jamaican breakfast of Ackee & Saltfish, Sauteed Callaloo with Fried Bammies, Sweet plantain, Boiled green bananas and Johnny cakes or the Mountain View Gourmand, consisting of Fried Jamaican bammies with Sauteed Callaloo, Two Poached Eggs and Sliced, Smoked Marlin Glazed with Hollandaise Sauce. Breakfast also includes freshly baked breads, bread, bush tea, Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee an d a complimentary Mimosa per person. Room rates also include a 15-minute stress relieving treatment per person.

Strawberry Hill is dedicated to protecting the environment from its hotel operations to its natural inhabitants. This bird sanctuary is the latest endeavor in its continuance to nurture the Jamaican wildlife and environment.

About Strawberry Hill

Strawberry Hill, a signature mountaintop oasis, offers an enchanting mix of rich Jamaican heritage balanced by healthy conscious living. Perched in the Blue Mountains, and located 3,100 feet above sea level, this unique boutique property houses a Living Spa, a Main House, and twelve handcrafted 19th century Georgian style cottages. Visitors reconnect with their inner self through Strawberry Hill Living, the hotel’s signature wellness program. The property began as an 18th century coffee plantation that was originally deeded by the British Royal Family to Horace Walpole in the United Kingdom. After changing hands throughout the 20th century, the property was acquired in 1972 by Chris Blackwell. Since that time, Strawberry Hill has continued the tradition of acting as a destination point for famous musicians, entertainers, Reggae artists, the fashion elite and discerning travelers. A 60-foot negative-edge swimming pool, nature trails, bird-watching expeditions and mountain bikes help guests connect with the intense natural beauty of this fertile region, famous the world over for its strong, smooth coffee blends.

About Island Outpost:

Created by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records and Palm Pictures, Island Outpost properties are known for their interesting character and stunning surroundings and strive to offer their clients a feeling reminiscent of staying at a friend’s home. The group includes GoldenEye, Strawberry Hill, Jake’s, Geejam and The Caves, and an exclusive selection of villas in Jamaica, as well as Pink Sands in Harbour Island in The Bahamas.

Contacts

Public Relations US
Andria Mistakos PR
[email protected]
+1 561.266.0568