Sandals Resorts take the all-inclusive concept to a whole new level. I know that a "couples resort vacation" may sound a bit cliche and gimmicky, but trust me, there is nothing typical about this resort!
The Grand Riviera is the largest of all Sandals Resorts. Situated on 100 acres of the most pristine slopes on the island overlooking the breathtaking Caribbean Sea. Lush is an understatement when describing the botanical display of blossoming gardens and mountain views. With 200 yards of white sand beach, Sandals offers 529 deluxe rooms, 11 Restaurants, 4 Cocktail Bars, Nightly Entertainment, 6 Swimming Pools, (including swim up bars) Tennis Courts and more.
On the off chance that you get tired of the variety of land sports, water sports, and the Caribbean's largest Rock Climbing Wall, sandals guests receive complimentary Golf green fees at the Sandals owned Jamaica Golf and Country Club with a Championship 18 hole par 71 course. With caddies, clubs and Yamaha golf carts are available for a very small fee; there is no reason to deny yourself a round or three!
Don't forget to treat yourself to some time in the Red Lane Spa. They offer single and double treatment rooms, sauna & steam rooms, beauty salon, cold plunge pools and more. The Red Lane Spa is world renowned for their therapies, massages and treatments with a distinctly Caribbean influence. We urge you to indulge in one of their seaside massages, you will not regret it!
Looking to work off a bit of last night's dessert? Sandals Grand Riviera provides two state-of-the-art equipped fitness center with Cybex weight machines along with a complete free weight section and saunas.
Now the good stuff...the food. Sandals offers 11 dining options that go from casual to elegant. From buffet breakfast spreads, to beach side grills, classic Italian and Asian cuisine. You can dine at a candlelit table for two on a seaside gazebo or experience white-glove service at an Italian trattoria. Our pick is Kimono's, a specialty gourmet restaurant serving exotic cuisines from the Far East. You are sure to enjoy watching their talented and entertaining Chefs dazzle you as your meal is prepared right in front of your eyes. No matter where you dine, Sandals ensures their personal service will make every meal an unforgettable experience.
Looking for a day exploring outside of the resort? Just stop by the front desk and they will assist you with dozens of options! Tours, rentals or excursions! Nearby Dunn's River Falls is a popular tourist destination along with several other excursions available in the area. Take a climb up this natural, fresh water waterfall and enjoy one of the beauties of Jamaica! The Ocho Rios cruise port and nearby shopping/restaurant district is the perfect location to do a bit of trinket shopping and enjoy more of the rich culture Jamaica has to offer.
Sandals Grande Riviera is attractive to couples interested in a resort that features a bit of everything. A refined luxury and relaxed setting, the resort ranges from beachfront to mountain setting designed to fulfill and exceed every need and wish that two people in love could ever possibly have. Resort accepts couples only, ages 18 years and older.
The down side? If I had to choose anything it would be the 1 hour and 45 minutes drive from Montego Bay. I must say however that the scenic drive along the coast makes for trip. We traveled with friends and they mentioned that although their rooms were elegant, clean and accommodating, they felt they were a bit small, but on a slice of beach this delicious, who's spending much time in the room?
So is Sandals Grand Riviera the stereotypical couples resort? Only if you are used to being treated like royalty, eating like a king and living in paradise!
