Mystic Ridge Resort

Set high on a hillside overlooking Ochos Rios, this resort unfolds across lush grounds and landscaped gardens scattered with tall palm trees -- like a little tropical oasis with plenty of Caribbean color on show. Vibrant yellow and shingle-roofed buildings envelop the aqua, blossom-shaped pool. The pavilion-style lobby and restaurant spaces have plantation ceilings and elevated views with an authentic island vibe. Pathways and stairs meander the grounds to rooms (so there’s plenty of walking involved here), but the elevation creates a sense of escape from the Ochos Rios bustle down below. Gardens are well-kept and incredibly green, but there are “wear and tear” signs around the property, such as the deteriorating tennis court surfaces. Large speakers in the bar area suggest a lively nightlife scene, but the Mystic Ridge is otherwise calm and laid-back.

Mystic Ridge is a 10-minute walk to downtown Ochos Rios, and it's a two-minute walk to Turtle River Park, a four-minute drive to Dolphin Cove, three minutes to Mystic Mountain (rain forest bobsled), and five minutes to Dunns River Falls. It's a 20-minute drive to Ian Fleming International Airport, which is mainly used for domestic and private flights. Most guests traveling from abroad fly into Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport and cab, shuttle, or bus the trip to Ochos Rios, which takes about 90 minutes. Renting a car is also a possibility, and the hotel offers free parking. Several beaches are located within five to 10 minutes of the resort. 

The 44 rooms at Mystic Ridge Resort take on a cottage-like vibe with cozy interiors that are a bit dated. White walls, tiles, and bedding are broken up with dark wooden furniture and vibrant red, orange, pink, and green palettes in artworks, fabrics, and lighting. Layouts include Standard Rooms, Loft Suites, and One and Two Bedroom Apartments. Some guests find Standards are too small. Apartments have fully equipped kitchens, and those with two bedrooms unfold over two levels like private town houses -- with two en-suite bathrooms. Higher-floor rooms enjoy the best views and light. Past guests have complained about low water pressure, the odd cobweb, and sugar ants -- so take care not to leave food lying around. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and refrigerators (mini-fridges in lower-category rooms). Irons, ironing boards, and free Wi-Fi also come standard, with cribs available on request. Only the bathrooms in higher-category rooms have bathtubs.

Mystic Ridge has the features expected of a basic, mid-range property, with little extra. AquaVue Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a strong Caribbean theme. Guest reviews on the food are mixed, though breakfast is included in the rates. There’s a bar, and a lounge area for cocktails and drinks. The pool has a swim-up bar -- which was closed during Oyster’s visit. The pool is framed with deck chairs, and a couple of (worn) tennis courts sit at the top of the property. In-room treatments and massages can be arranged. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.