“Would these books have been born if I had not been living in the gorgeous vacuum of a Jamaican holiday? I doubt it.” –Ian Fleming
It was Bond, James Bond that was created here on the sparkling clifftops above by the world famous, Man of Mystery, Ian Fleming.
Every year, Fleming came to his home in Jamaica where he’d wander barefoot on his private beach and dream up bold adventures, fearless antagonists and out-of-this-world sets for his 007 series. Indeed, it was here that the iconic Englishman’s career as a writer is said to have blossomed.
After all, during WWII, he was Commander Fleming running naval intelligence operations, which put him in contact with a roster of spies. “GoldenEye” was actually the codename for one of his wartime intelligence operations.
Today, as part of GoldenEye Resort, the original, Fleming-designed villa can accommodate up to 10 adults in three bedrooms—a master suite, a queen-sized bedroom, and a bedroom with two twin beds. Each has its own large, tropical garden bath area with claw foot tub and a garden shower. Newer additions to the property include the ‘Sweet Spot’ and ‘Pool House’, a couple of stand-alone one-bedroom cottages with their own verandas, claw foot tub and outdoor showers. Each cottage sleeps two adults and an infant crib can be provided.
Beautifully secluded in a garden far away from the paparazzi’s prying eyes, Fleming Villa hides behind the island’s native trees and tropical bush. It has its own resident staff; a cook, butler and a housekeeper, along with a private beach and pool and media room with wet bar.
Meals are taken between the almond trees in the sunken garden or on the beach, where there’s a grill chiselled into the side of the rocky cliff. And while leaving the Villa may not be on your agenda, there is, after all, the whole of GoldenEye itself to explore; browsing the boutique, an afternoon of watersports, a massage at the FieldSpa, or perhaps Bond’s favourite, a martini—shaken but not stirred, at the Bizot Bar.
Set amid lush gardens, beaches and secluded coves—a Jamaican home away from home. GoldenEye is a one of a kind place. A destination full of imagination, history and charm.