Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & SpaLucea, Jamaica

The Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa has a spot on its own white-sand beach. It’s surrounded by acres of tropical garden in the north-western corner of Jamaica, and a half-hour drive along the coast will take you to Montego Bay.

The complex is made up of grand, colonial-style buildings painted in subtle pastel tones. Interiors are just as impressive – public areas feature majestic columns and wrought-iron chandeliers, while rooms are spacious and elegant.

There are five pools to choose from. The main one is the biggest in Jamaica, and curves around part of the hotel building that pokes out into the water. It’s accessorised with four whirlpools and a swim-up bar. Elsewhere, you’ve got tranquil adults-only pools with in-water loungers and built-in hot-tubs. Plus, there's a quiet pool nestled off to one side of the complex, and a splash pool for kids with slides and fountains.

There are three international buffet restaurants, including an open-air eatery overlooking the main pool. You’ve also got a little hut by the beach, serving traditional jerk chicken every afternoon. You’re spoilt for choice in terms of à la carte restaurants. There are seven options, including Xaymaica, where you can order authentic Jamaican dishes, and Portofino which majors in Italian cuisine. Plus, you’ve got 17 bars across the property.

Volleyball, basketball, and football are all on the cards. You can also try out archery, or watersports like kayaking and windsurfing on the beach. A hotel-run kids’ club keeps younger guests occupied with painting, video games and sports competitions. They’ve also got indoor and outdoor play areas.

Book in for a therapy in the hotel’s spa*, and you can make use of a whirlpool, a steam bath, a sauna, and hydrotherapy showers. You’ve also got a gym and a hair and beauty salon*.

You can look forward to live reggae bands and dance acts come sundown. Big shows take place in the hotel’s theatre, and smaller acts in the infinity bar. Of the hotel’s tally of bars, five stay open until late and one has a terrace overlooking the ocean. If you prefer your drinks served up with a generous side order of food and sports event screenings, the big sports bar is the place for you.

*Local charges apply

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa is located in Lucea, Jamaica. Accommodation rating is the operators own rating and may not be the official rating. Hotel details correct at 17/11/2022