The Half Moon resort near Montego Bay in Jamaica will open its new US$4m (3.1m euro, £2.2m) Fern Tree Spa in April 2007.

The 68,000sq ft (6,300sq m) spa will feature treatment rooms in a garden setting, outdoor plunge pools and showers, a hydrotherapy swimming pool, a yoga pavilion and a VIP room with its own garden terrace.

Couples will be able to reserve a plantation-style massage room with private patio and dipping pool.

Half Moon is also building six new signature spa suites – each will include a studio for private treatments or yoga classes as well as an outdoor soaking tub.

Spa treatments and techniques will incorporate ancient Jamaican healing remedies using native herbs, fruits and botanics. The resort’s Spa Elder, who is versed in local holistic techniques, will customise private treatment menus for guests.

Additional features include an organic spa refreshment bar and a spa bath bar.

Richard Whitfield, Half Moon’s managing director, said: “Fern Tree will be a world-class spa designed to fulfil the needs of the discerning spa goer.

“Guests will be able to create a truly personalised experience through consultation with the Spa Elder. In addition, the spa suites will offer the opportunity to have treatments and or classes in privacy and at a time to suit the guest.

“Being conscious that the mind is as important as the body, we have incorporated outdoor areas for quiet contemplation seated by water features, such as the sculpture walk.”

The resort’s five-year refurbishment plan also includes upgrading its beachfront Hibiscus suites and two of the restaurants, renovating the golf course and building a new children’s play area.

Half Moon is a privately-owned property which also contains 51 swimming pools, a dolphin lagoon, a number of restaurants, 13 tennis courts, an equestrian centre and two miles of private beaches. Details: www.halfmoon.com