Spa Profile: Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa at Half Moon

Eclipse at Half Moon is an iconic resort destination in Jamaica with 400 acres of tropical gardens, two miles of beachfront, and award-winning amenities.

Nestled between the rolling hills of Montego Bay and the Caribbean Sea, Eclipse at Half Moon in Jamaica is a fresh, contemporary addition to Half Moon's over 65-year history. Designed by renowned architecture and design firm Hart Howerton, it features eco-conscious architecture, local art throughout the property, and is filled with native flora and fauna.

The highly-anticipated luxury resort is a celebration of authentic Jamaican culture reflecting its surrounding natural beauty. In addition to an infinity-edge saltwater pool at the ocean’s edge and natural swimming cove, it also features seven new bars and restaurants. Guests can also enjoy two additional distinct resort choices: Founders Cove at Half Moon and Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon, which are located at opposite ends of the 400-acre property.

Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa can be enjoyed by those staying at Rose Hall Villas or Founders Cove at Half Moon (in addition to the new Eclipse). Seamlessly set to blend into the resort’s abundant foliage, the spa is part of the noted Salamander Spa brand, which features acclaimed properties in Virginia and Florida. Fern Tree also offers guests a raw vegan experience with Ital Café and features two dramatic overwater bungalows for massage treatments and yoga classes.

We interviewed Tanya Vassell, Spa Director at Fern Tree Spa at Eclipse at Half Moon, who shared insider tips, recommended spa treatments to try, and more:

Among the resort’s amenities are a stunning infinity-edge pool and a natural swimming cove.

Why You’ll Love It: The abundance and spaciousness that 68,000-square-feet gives you to enjoy tranquility, whether you are spa-ing alone or with a group of 12! There is always another nook to discover—plus our overwater spa bungalows where you can enjoy a single or couples massage at the Northernmost point of Jamaica over the Caribbean Sea.

Nestled between the lush rolling hills of Montego Bay and the Caribbean Sea, Eclipse at Half Moon is a celebration of authentic Jamaican culture reflecting its surrounding natural beauty.

Key Features: A range of amenities are available including:

Tea lounge
Relaxation room
Lagoon pool for leisurely wading
Waterfall and whirlpool
Fern Tree falls: 3 separate pools for cooling off between use of gender-specific hot steam and sauna rooms
Gender-specific locker rooms with rain showers
Slippers and robes for in-spa use
Disposable underwear for comfort option during body treatments
Indoor and outdoor lounging spaces
Personal care products in the locker rooms including, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, body lotion, razors, combs, brushes, cotton swabs and buds, mouthwash, blowdryers and hot irons, disposable slippers

For relaxation and restoration, guests can also enjoy Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa, which is part of the noted Salamander Spa brand.

Insider’s Tip: Book an hour and spend the day. There is so much more to enjoy with your spa treatment when you visit Fern Tree—come early and stay late—utilize our eucalyptus steam and sauna; dip in one of our three water features or enjoy our relaxation room with full views of our waterfall, walk the bamboo enclosed labyrinth or enjoy a stroll through the garden pausing by one of our water features in the garden providing ideal spaces for personal introspection!

Bonus: Brides are served a complimentary glass of champagne whilst having their do in the salon; an herb-infused foot bath is offered before all spa treatments. Shh...don't spoil the surprise!

The spa features tranquil tropical gardens and water features.

Snacks: With our compliments:

A freshly steeped tea with choice of herbs from the garden along with a range of other mighty leaf teas. Sweetener option of locally produced rich logwood honey
A combination of dried mango, papaya, pineapple chips and nuts
Fresh fruit
Bottled water
Fruit-infused iced water
Lemongrass iced tea
We also boast a full raw food dining experience with a full range of pressed juices including exotic options of passion and ginger along with tasty delights such as an ackee scramble, dehydrated khale chips and homemade cashew cheese!

The treatment menu includes a popular herbal bush bath in an oversized stone tub set in a private garden.

Splurge Treatment: Our "Rolls Royce" Pedicure, which includes a knee-down exfoliation, mask, and hot stone massage along with detailed nail care and preference of polish! It certainly leaves you with a pep in your step!

Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa features two dramatic overwater bungalows for massage treatments.

Insider’s Favorite: My favorite spa treatment is a combination of a body scrub followed by a hot stone massage. There is nothing like an invigorating scrub, which leaves my skin super soft and smooth, followed by the deeply relaxing massage that a hot stone session at Fern Tree delivers!

Unique Treatment: Our popular herbal bush bath offered in an oversized stone tub set in a private garden. Herbs are picked fresh from the garden and steeped for our clients to soak in!

Guests can also enjoy yoga sessions in the overwater bungalows.

Featured Products:

Elemis for our facial and skin care
EmerginC's Raw Ceutical line, which complements our raw food Ital cafe
Country House featuring lemongrass-infused body products and candles, as well as a range of herbal teas including cerasee, peppermint, rosemary, and neem
Redken Hair products
Bushgyal body oils and soaps
Starfish bath salts, scrubs, essential oils, and candles
Binka & Jholie relax apparel
A perfume and body lotion with a unique scent captured specifically for and inspired by Jamaica
Pretti Slippery candles and body products featuring Jamaican coconut, coffee, and lemongrass

For more information and to book a treatment, visit the website and follow them on Instagram: @halfmoonjamaica

[Images courtesy of Eclipse at Half Moon]