About 12 degrees north of the equator sits the tiny island of Grenada. Appropriately dubbed “the Spice of the Caribbean,” the stunning destination boasts an impressive output of cloves, cinnamon, ginger and nearly one-third of the world’s production of nutmeg. Throw in a handful of pristine beaches, sprinkle with lush, mountainous terrain and top it off with warm tropical nights; Grenada fills us up and leaves us wanting more.
Where to Sleep:
Indulge in the royal princess treatment at Spice Island Resort (suites start at $750/night and include all meals, afternoon tea and drinks), where elegant rooms open up directly onto the famous Grand Anse Beach. Get cosy in a private daybed where you can watch the sunset and be lulled to sleep by the sound of rolling waves. For a touch of romance, Laluna (starting at US $775/night) has 16 beach-view cottages designed in breezy Asian minimalism. Imagine doing your sun salutations in the new outdoor yoga lounge! Owner Bernardo Bertucci is the ex-PR man for Armani, so you know you’re in good hands; he even nabbed Signor Giorgio’s architect as the resort’s designer. For a taste of Italy, Bernardo also imported renowned Chef Daniele Gaetano from Calabria.
Where to Eat:
For a special treat, drive up to Gouyave’s outdoor Fish Fry (plates start at US $5) on a Friday night, where you can stroll from stall to stall, sampling all sorts of fish: fried, steamed and grilled, as well as fish pizza and fish lasagna – and lobster. Frequented by locals, tourists and American med students, the weekly event also features a lively bongo show, rum samples and mega-screen karaoke, where you can get your Lady Gaga-groove on.
What to Do:
After some R&R on the beach, try snorkeling at Molinaire Bay, where you can gaze at the Underwater Sculpture Park by Jason de Caires Taylor (the only one in the world of its kind!). Or give your legs a workout hiking through the Grand Etang rainforest and enjoy a swim at the Seven Sisters waterfall. Before packing your suitcase to head home, be sure to hit St-George’s market to load up on souvenirs, including the local spice necklaces – like fresh potpourri on a string.
Foodies won’t be able to resist a stop at the ever-so-sweet Grenada Chocolate Factory and the historic Dougaldston Spice Boucan, which was originally a sugar cane plantation but now a working farm where you can learn about many of the island’s culinary bounties, including cocoa, cinnamon and, of course, nutmeg.
