Spice it Up in Grenada

The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most luxurious holiday destinations. The soft sands, turquoise sea and easy-going culture draw visitors to the islands all year round. Spread over 26 territories the area boasts some spectacular sights and attractions. But one of the Caribbean’s secret treasures lies in the form of Grenada, the smallest independent country in the Western Hemisphere. Made up of the largest island Grenada , and its fellow Grenadines including Carriacou and Petite Martinique, this is a luxurious retreat away from the extravagance found in other parts of the West Indies. Also known as ‘The Spice Isle’ for its worldwide exports of spices including nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and mace, a holiday to Grenada is ideal for anyone wanting to bask in the relaxed and colourful culture of the Caribbean.

The island of Grenada is home to just 110,000 Grenadians, but visitors to the island are guaranteed an exquisite holiday experience, especially those who indulge in one of its luxury resorts along the southwest coast. From here it’s a short trip to the capital of St. George’s, where beauty is found in abundance and time can be whittled away in the bustling markets or participating in one of the many water sports on show. Alternatively, a day or two can be spent sampling some of the other delights that Grenada has to offer:

• Grand Anse Beach

Just one of the many idyllic beaches surrounding the island, Grand Anse has recently been named as one of the “World’s best beaches” by The Telegraph. Stretching 3km along the coast of St. George’s its soft sands and shimmering sea is the perfect place to recline, relax and soak up the sun. There are also a number of dive centres along the beach that will be happy to introduce you to Grenada’s under water wonders, including reefs, wrecks and sculptures.

• Dougaldston Spice Estate

A trip to ‘The Spice Isle’ wouldn’t be complete without learning a little about the growth and processing of Grenada’s prime export. This working plantation provides visitors with a glimpse into the past and an appreciation of many exquisite spices in their raw, fresh form. Smell cocoa straight from its pod, see the engine room with its basic steam technology and buy spices fresh from the estate to invigorate your own cooking on return.

• Seven Sisters Waterfalls

The Grenadian rainforest is home to an abundance of waterfalls, each enticing as they crash and cascade down the landscape. Adventurers will be thrilled by the Seven Sisters trek; exploring deep into the rainforest and taking in not one but (yes you guessed it!) seven majestic waterfalls along the way. Guides are available to ensure no-one gets lost, and are experienced in the correct technique to jump the falls for those feeling brave.

• Fort George

Another slice of history can be found 180ft above the harbour of St. George’s where visitors will come across the once commanding Fort George. Providing spectacular views across Grenada and Grand Anse the fort is a good vantage point to take in the island scenery. But it also has a dark past; steeped in history the fort played a pivotal role in many civil battles and the anguished events surrounding the Grenadian revolution in 1983.

There is a lot to explore on the island, and even more once you board the ferry to Carricaou for the day. Whether your ideal holiday consists of deep sea diving and reclining on the beach, exploring and connecting with the natural landscape or delving into the past of a nation awash with history Grenada is certainly worth a visit.