GEMS OF GRENADA

Imagine yourself strolling along a white sandy beach, the warm sun kissing your skin and the crystal blue waves gently crashing against your feet. Now, picture this scene with a backdrop of lush green mountains and vibrant tropical palm trees. Welcome to Grenada, an island paradise in the eastern Caribbean known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and exotic cuisine. However, there is one aspect of this picturesque destination that often goes overlooked – its hidden gems. In this post, I’ll be sharing some hidden and not-so hidden gems, as well as a little detail about one of its sister islands; read on to find out what makes Grenada unique to its fellow Caribbean islands!

Nutmeg

Grenada is often referred to as the "Spice Isle," with nutmeg being one of its most famous exports playing a vital role in the island's economy and culture. The best way to find out what all the fuss is about is by touring a nutmeg factory! During your visit, you will gain an authentic glimpse into significance of the nutmeg in Grenadian life. It’s a chance to see the journey of nutmeg from tree to table while learning about its various uses, from cooking to cosmetics and medicine.

One of the best nutmeg factories to visit is the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station which can be found on the island’s western coast. Gouyave, is often called the "Nutmeg Capital," because it is home to one of the largest and oldest nutmeg factories in Grenada! During the tour, you will see the traditional processes of drying, sorting, and packing nutmeg, which are often still done by hand. Walking through the factory, you’ll smell the rich, spicy aroma of nutmeg filling the air. Friendly guides provide fascinating insights into the history of nutmeg production, the importance of the spice industry to Grenada, and how nutmeg is cultivated, harvested, and processed. At the end of the tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase some fresh nutmeg and other local spices, to take home a true taste of Grenada. This immersive, sensory experience is a must for anyone visiting the island!

If you ask me, the nutmeg is THE gem of Grenada, the clove of the nutmeg is featured on the islands flag after all!

Cocoa

Although Grenada is mostly commonly known as the Spice Isle, in particular for its nutmeg and mace production as mentioned above, due to the increasing number of bean-to-bar chocolate makers, the island is set to become the chocolate capital of the Caribbean! 

Dedicated to all things cocoa, the house of chocolate Grenada is a place anyone with a sweet tooth will love. Learn about the history of chocolate, sample some of the delicious treats made onsite or buy as a gift to take back with you (if you don’t get tempted to eat it first)! Housed in a former rum distillery built by French Monks lies The Diamond Chocolate Factory which produces the infamous Jouvay brand of chocolate found all over the island – whilst I didn’t visit, having tasted Jouvay chocolate, the Diamond Chocolate Factory is a gem on the list for a future visit back to Grenada!

River Antoine Rum Distillery

River Antoine Rum distillery is the oldest functioning water-propelled rum distillery not only in Grenada, but throughout the Caribbean!

Visiting the River Antoine Rum Distillery is like taking a step back in time, offering a rare glimpse into the island's rum-making traditions that have remained largely unchanged since the 18th century. Their age-old techniques and antique equipment include a waterwheel-powered cane crusher, a wooden hand cart, boiling cauldrons and large concrete vats from the colonial era, making this gem of Grenada a must-visit for anyone interested in history, craftsmanship, or rum culture.

Since 1785, River Antoine have been making their legendary high proof Rivers Rum using locally grown, hand cut, organic sugar cane. Nothing in the process goes to waste, the crushed and dried cane is used as a natural fertiliser in local agricultural fields, but mostly burned and used as the heating source in the distillery’s boiler house.

During the tour, knowledgeable guides walk you through the entire rum-making process, from crushing the sugarcane to fermenting and distilling. One of the most fascinating aspects is that River Antoine uses traditional copper pot stills which produce their signature high-proof rum. You’ll also learn how they produce both 69% and 75% alcohol content rums, which are among the strongest in the world and often only available on the island.

The sensory experience is also remarkable! As you walk around, breathing in the rich, earthy aroma of fermenting cane, feeling the heat from the distillery, and tasting the raw, bold flavours of Rivers Rum at the end of the tour - sampling the rum straight from the stills, filling you with an unfiltered and intense taste of Grenadian rum craftsmanship!

Charlie’s Bar

Located just outside of the capital, on a hillside road in St. George in an area called Happy Hill is one of the most colourful gems on the island that cannot be missed! 

Funnily enough, the guy who runs the bar is not called Charlie; Charlie’s bar is a creation of Martin Oswell Nicholas, who has been running the place for around 30 years, after spending a decade bartending on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Charlie’s Bar is a cave of wonders featuring displays, messages and ordinary objects combined into an aesthetically pleasing red, green and yellow art installation representing the colours of the Grenada flag. It’s a great place to stop by for a chat, or even taste some of his potent home-brew spiced rum, that he keeps in a huge plastic jug beneath the counter!

Grenville old airport

The Old Grenville Airport, located on the eastern coast of Grenada was one of the islands’ first airports built in the 1940s, serving as an important hub for regional air travel. During World War II, the airport played a pivotal role, supporting the Allies with military logistics. Although it was eventually replaced by the larger Maurice Bishop International Airport, the Old Grenville Airport remains a symbol of Grenada's aviation history.

Today, the Old Grenville Airport is a hidden gem for visitors interested in Grenada's past. Its charm lies in the juxtaposition of crumbling remnants of the runway with the lush greenery that has reclaimed much of the area. The peaceful surroundings offer a unique experience for history buffs, nature lovers, and photographers seeking off-the-beaten-path locations. A visit here provides a tranquil glimpse into a bygone era while being surrounded by the natural beauty of Grenada’s less-travelled eastern coast.

Grand Etang lake

Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve is a hidden natural gem in the heart of Grenada, showcasing the islands’ rich biodiversity and at the centre of it is where you can find Grand Etang Lake, a naturally occurring body of water set in the crater of an extinct volcano. This freshwater lake is 530m above sea level and spans across approximately 36 acres.

The park offers a unique combination of tropical forests, volcanic lakes, mountain trails, and a multitude of endemic species, making it a true gem of the island. The Grand Etang National Park is not only a refuge for wildlife but also an important pillar of local culture. Its history and legends are deeply rooted in the heart of the local community, making it an emblem of Grenadian identity. Common sightings around the park include colourful tropical birds, species of frogs, lizards and brilliant blooms that punctuate the dense rainforest vegetation. The lake is also home to a variety of fish that range from black to a brilliant coppery gold. Have your camera ready to capture stunning photos in this most picturesque location!

 DO go chasing waterfalls

Whilst Grenada is home to around 18 waterfalls, we only visited 2 of them. Let’s face it, visiting all 18 would require a trip of its own and probably take away the beauty of each one seeing them back-to-back! 

The first waterfall that I will be sharing with you requires hiking into the rainforest of Grand Etang National Park (as mentioned above) among valleys inhabited by birds and monkeys to the first of the Seven Sisters Falls, after the hike it’s wise to take a well-earned dip in the refreshing mountain pool that flows into the Great River before carrying on (if you so wish)! We were lucky enough to have the place all to ourselves when we ventured here, allowing us to truly soak in the beauty of nature which surrounded us.

Top tips: 

·      Hike with a local guide

·      Wear water shoes - as we returned from the hike, a man cleaned our shoes for us (wanting a tip), but they were soaking wet, so do take an extra pair of shoes too! 

·      Mosquito repellent and extra suncream 

·      Walking stick recommended as the path can be slippery especially where steps are involved, we just used some broken branches though

The other one we visited, but I would be reluctant to recommend is Concorde waterfalls; it was clearly set up with tourism at the heart of it. As you enter, an array of vendors selling spices are the first to greet you and once down by the waterfall, the ‘cliff jumpers’ make an appearance, put on a show and then unashamedly ask for money.

I’m here to give you the truth about my experiences – the good, the bad and the ugly!

Underwater sculpture park

The Underwater Sculpture Park in Grenada is a unique and captivating attraction with a fascinating history. Created by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor in 2006, it was the world’s first underwater sculpture park and has since been listed as 1 of National Geographic’s Wonders of the World.

Located off the coast of Molinere Bay, this park was developed not only as an artistic endeavour, but also as a response to the environmental damage caused by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, which devastated much of Grenada’s coral reefs. The sculptures were designed to serve as artificial reefs, encouraging coral growth and attracting marine life, while also providing a new and sustainable attraction for tourists.

Accessible by scuba diving, snorkelling and glass bottom boats, dive 5-8m below surface level to discover more than 75 sculptures formed using long-lasting and pH neutral cement which is textured to allow coral polyps to attach themselves to the sculptures, therefore creating a new base for sea life to breed within the marine protected area.

The park is a hidden gem because it combines cultural significance, ecological purpose, and the thrill of underwater exploration. Unlike many art exhibits, this one offers a dynamic, immersive experience in a serene underwater world. The surrounding coral reefs are also home to an array of fish, rays, and other marine creatures, making it a top destination for both divers and snorkelers. Visiting the park not only provides a glimpse into Grenada’s environmental resilience but also supports marine conservation efforts, as the park helps relieve diving pressure on the island’s natural reefs. Whether you’re an art lover, marine enthusiast, or adventure seeker, the Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-see on Grenada’s hidden treasure map!

Beach Treasures

Now obviously a beach is not a hidden gem, especially when you’re on tropical island! But I can’t write a post on a Caribbean island and not mention a beach!

And one that is definitely not a hidden gem is Grenada’s most famous beach - Grand Anse, located on the southwest coast of the island. The white sands stretch across 2 miles shaded by sea grapes, almond trees and palms, surrounded by hotels and various eateries - it’s a place popular with both locals and tourists with views of the Capital just in the distance. Be sure to check out the Craft & Spice Market towards the northern end of the beach for some local gems!

La Sagesse Beach, located on Grenada’s southeastern coast, is a true hidden gem, offering visitors a serene escape from the island’s more popular and bustling beaches. Tucked away in a tranquil bay that is framed by coconut palms and tropical vegetation, providing plenty of shaded spots to sit back and enjoy the view. La Sagesse feels secluded and intimate, making it a perfect hidden paradise.

Bathway Beach is considered one of Grenada's hidden gems because it offers a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience away from the island’s more touristy spots. Located on Grenada’s northeastern coast, this beach is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. One of Bathway’s unique features is its natural rock barrier, which creates a calm, shallow pool near the shore, making it ideal for swimming. This barrier protects swimmers from the stronger Atlantic currents, allowing you to enjoy the refreshing waters safely. The golden sands and turquoise waters are perfect for lounging or strolling along the coastline, and the panoramic views of nearby islands like Sugar Loaf and Green Island enhance the beach’s appeal.

Prickly Bay, nestled on the southern coast of Grenada near the lively town of Lance Aux Épines, is a hidden gem known for its tranquil beauty, vibrant marine life, and laid-back charm. While not as heavily visited as the island's more famous beaches, Prickly Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity, making it an ideal spot for those looking to experience Grenada's coastal life without the crowds. Here you can expect stunning views of anchored yachts dotting the blue-green waters against the backdrop of lush, hilly landscapes. The marina area is lively, with several waterfront bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood, Caribbean cuisine, and rum cocktails in a laid-back setting.

We stumbled upon Prickly Bay during a little walk to see what the surrounding areas of our resort had to offer. I’ll be reviewing where we stayed in my next post, so stay tuned if Grenada is on your radar to visit!

Day trip

The Spice Isle is part of the tri-island group comprising of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. We took a day trip using Osprey Lines Grenada and embarked on a guided tour around the sister island of Carriacou aka ‘Isle of Reefs’.

The point of embarkation/disembarkation from Grenada to Carriacou is St. George’s. Take in the backdrop of Grenada from a distance whilst on the ferry, surrounded by crystal clear waters enveloping the horseshoe harbour and yacht lagoon, and further in the distance Grenada's capital is a picturesque city with colourful shops and homes dotting the hillside of an old volcano crater.

Carriacou is a serene and picturesque destination known for its unspoiled beaches, vibrant marine life, and friendly locals. It's perfect for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat, offering activities like hiking, snorkelling, and exploring local traditions. The rich cultural heritage of Carriacou is evident in its boat-building traditions and annual festivals, including the Carriacou Maroon & String Band Music Festival. Despite being relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, Carriacou provides an authentic Caribbean experience, with warm hospitality and a strong connection to its African, European, and indigenous roots.

Sights of interest (when I visited in 2019): 

·      Paradise Beach

·      Bel Air Windmill

·      Carriacou Museum

·      Princess Royal Hospital for views of Petite Martinique

·      Oyster bed mangrove

·      Tyrrel Bay Beach

Unfortunately, in July 2024, Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 storm, severely impacted Carriacou. The storm caused widespread devastation, damaging nearly all homes on the island, uprooting trees, and defoliating much of the island's vegetation. The local airport was also heavily damaged, cutting off air access temporarily. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with international aid and local efforts working to rebuild the island’s infrastructure and restore normalcy. Despite the challenges, Carriacou's resilient spirit and its natural beauty make it worth visiting, especially to support its recovery and witness how communities rebuild after disaster.

Don’t let that stop you from visiting this little island; in fact, contributing as a tourist now would help them more than when I visited!

Just writing this post has made me want to book another trip to Grenada, I can only hope reading it has had the same effect on you!