Be shaken – not stirred – by the splendor of Goldeneye, the birthplace of James Bond
Luxury Jamaica retreat provides five-star service and offers Bond-related activities for avid fans
Avid Bond fans now have the opportunity to follow in his footsteps and experience some of the thrills and sights that were instrumental in the birth of James Bond. Dashing 007 originated at Goldeneye, a 15-acre seaside hideaway, which blossomed around the home of Ian Fleming, who wrote 13 spy novels here. The author delighted in the landscape’s richness and praised “the blazing sunshine, natural beauty and the most healthy life I could live.”
Today, Fleming’s retreat is a boutique hideaway laced with beaches, tropical forest, caves, and secluded nooks. Intimate and informal, Goldeneye attracts celebrities and other lovers of luxury – it’s like staying in the home of a good friend, as the unobtrusive staff provides five-star service, but maintain the mellow island vibe. The Fleming House features the original writing desk where Fleming created James Bond and penned his well-known adventures.
While staying at Goldeneye, become licensed to thrill and partake in the many “Bond” activities available.
Take to the sea on a thrilling Jet Ski safari or fishing canoe safari to Laughing Waters, the stunning private beach where Ursula Andress unforgettably emerged from the sea in Dr. No. Become “James Bond for the day” as you approach this beach by sea (there is no other way of entry) on one of the hotel's Jet Skis or aboard their handsome fishing canoe. Skim along the coastline and discover the exquisite landscape of green flora and white-sand beaches, hidden resorts, and old Jamaican neighborhoods.
Meet and pay respects to Bond insider Ramsey, who has been at Goldeneye since Ian Fleming’s time. Ramsey remembers “the Commander” fondly and will share interesting tales with you throughout your stay. Enjoy nostalgic moments while walking the gardens with Ramsey and swimming in the very sea Ian Fleming used every morning.
Experience underwater adventure with an exciting snorkelling safari at Fleming’s secret coral reef. Fleming wrote, “I first learned about the bottom of the sea from the reefs around my property and that has added a new dimension to my view of the world.”
You can also visit some Bond movie locales.
In the movie Live and Let Die, The Ruins restaurant in Ocho Rios doubled for the exterior of Bond’s hotel when 007 catches a glimpse of Baron Samedi’s performance. Bond and Rosie Carver’s picnic was also filmed at The Ruins. The shot of Bond coming ashore to destroy the poppy fields was filmed on the coast beyond Reynolds Aluminum on the road from Ocho Rios to St Ann’s Bay. As well, the Runaway Caves in the Green Grotto at Runaway Bay were the caves seen in the film’s climax.
Visit the famous Dunn’s River Falls where Bond and Honey bathed in the movie Dr. No.
The Firefly hilltop retreat, now under the care of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust, was the home of playwright and composer Sir Noël Coward, Fleming’s neighbor. The library contains a collection of his books and the living room is warm and comfortable, with big armchairs and two grand pianos on which he composed several famous tunes. Today it serves as a lovely museum that elegantly captures the heart and soul of this famous playwright.
Visit Port Antonio, the playground of dashing movie star Errol Flynn, a good friend of Ian Fleming and Noël Coward – the three men were peers, living in Jamaica during the same period and enjoying the same high society. Fleming spent time in Port Antonio entertaining friends rafting on the Rio Grande, a pastime made popular by Flynn. On route to Port Antonio you’ll pass through Port Maria, the town where Fleming married Ann Rothmere in 1952.
Fleming once mused, “Would these books have ever been written if I had not been living in the gorgeous vacuum of a Jamaican holiday? I doubt it.” This popular author found great inspiration here – and now you can too.
Room rates at Goldeneye include all food & beverages (except fine wines and champagnes), unlimited cocktails and house wines during your stay, private bar stocked in your room, and complimentary use of kayaks, snorkelling equipment, glass-bottom boat, sailboat, and tennis court. A minimum three-night stay is required. All excursions and activities listed above come at an additional charge.
Bookings must be made directly with Island Outpost by calling 1-800-OUTPOST in the US and Canada or 0800-OUTPOST1 in the UK.
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