Grenada Holidays

Spotlight on Grenada Holidays

In the south of the Caribbean, at the foot of the Windward Islands chain, lies one of the region's most picturesque islands.

Grenada is lush, large and volcanic, with dramatic crater lakes and wild, impressive mountains. The island retains a laid back traditional West Indian feel and is known as the 'Spice Island' because of the abundance of spice plantations and nutmeg groves strewn around the mountainous interior.

You cannot fail to admire the capital of St George's, the Caribbean's prettiest harbour town, spread around the busy working port like an amphitheatre, its pastel coloured French villas lining narrow, winding streets.

South of here is the renowned Grand Anse beach from where the view over St George's to the mountains beyond is simply stunning.

Grenada is not that developed as a tourist destination - something which undoubtedly adds to its charm. There are still a few excellent hotels however and a sprinkling of good restaurants. And of course, lazy days are best spent at the beach bars tucked away in secluded coves.

The island provides the perfect contrast to cosmopolitan Barbados or a relaxing combination with the natural beauty of nearby Tobago. It is also the perfect place to spend some time after a leisurely sail through the Grenadine islands.

It's quality not quantity when it comes to restaurants in Grenada - a scattering of excellent fine dining options many of which are complemented by stunning dining rooms and picturesque settings. A number of the top hotels have great restaurants that are well worth a visit - Gary Rhodes has even put his name to one at The Calabash, then there's Oliver's at Spice Island Beach Resort.

If you're looking for something more informal, the beach bars are one of the joys of Grenada, many tucked away in pretty coves or along the stunning main beaches, and the perfect place to while away an afternoon or enjoy sundowners. Chilled in the week, a few liven up at the weekends and are a great evening venue for live music and entertainment.

Grenada's speciality dish is conch. Grenadian caviar (the roe of white sea urchin) and a fish called 'Stuffed Jacks' also appear on many menus.

Many of the beach bars in Grenada are very popular in the evening, with a mix of locals and tourists. Some of the best Grenadian experiences are to be had here and definitely worth checking out. During the week the atmosphere is fairly chilled with low key music and liming, but at the weekend things hot up, with live music, international rhythms and dancing.

It is always worth asking around what is happening in the hotels because some of the best entertainment happens there. There are a few clubs on the island, but if you are interested in seeing a regional band play to a local crowd, head to the north where there is a much stronger Caribbean flavour.

Bananas

True Blue

Tel: 473-439-4369

The most popular lime on a Friday night, with both locals and tourists. Open-air bar, air-conditioned indoor club playing live music (Wed is Caribbean Oldies, Thurs Latin Soca, Fri Caribbean Club and Sat Alternative and Techno). Cover charge on Fri.

Hornibaboon Watering Hole

Lazy Lagoon Cottages

Tel: 473-443-5299

An unusual quirky bar set on a small deck above the lagoon. Laid back fun, rustic and popular with yachties and Grenadians on their way home from work.

Fantazia 2001

Morne Rouge

Tel: 473-444-2288

Beachfront, open-air club facing west for the best sunsets. This is the most happening nightspot, with live music, dancing and spectacles such as fire eating. Wed is 'Blast from the Past', Fri 'Hot Tempo', Saturday features local and regional bands and DJs. Very busy on the last Friday of the month.

Owl Bar

The Flamboyant, Grand Anse

Open late, this is a great little spot for a quiet drink overlooking the harbour and capital.

D'Big Fish

True Blue Marina

A bar/restaurant popular with the yachting set. Live music on Saturdays.

The Arena

Plains, St Patrick's

A remote, local country music venue, popular with the northern parishes - a chance to experience serious local concerts with Reggae artists.

Fish Friday Festival

Gouyave

Locals and visitors gather together for this Friday night street party for an authentic Grenadian experience. Lots of fresh fish and lobster washed down with ice cold Carib beer. Check with hotels to book an organised tour for US$25 per person.