Five Reasons to Fall in Love with Grenada

We've compiled a list of five reasons you'll fall in love with this tropical island...

1. It's authentically Caribbean

With few tourists compared to its neighbouring islands, Grenada remains magically unspoilt. Wherever you visit, the friendly locals will greet you with the warmest welcome, while the entire island exudes a cool, laid-back vibe. Although larger and more popular than some of the smaller nearby islands, Grenada is a heavenly hideaway that isn't overcrowded or overwhelmed with visitors, so get set to enjoy an authentic experience exploring the 'Spice Island'. From colourful houses to bustling local markets and glistening harbours, Grenada looks like it's been copied from a Caribbean postcard. Get closer, though, and you'll find that it's bursting with life! The locals will go out of their way to help you should you need directions or advice, and are more than happy to show you their way of life in this tropical paradise. Embrace the local energy, enjoy the warm climate, and explore all that Grenada has to offer.

2. There are some seriously beautiful beaches

Grenada's beaches are genuinely some of the most beautiful in the word, flaunting the quintessential Caribbean white sands and turquoise waters. All of the beaches on the island are public, and with over 45 beaches dotted around the indented coastline, you're bound to find the perfect spot to suit your style. The world-renowned, two-mile-long Grand Anse is Grenada's trademark, lined with almond trees and boasting crystal clear waters. This patch of paradise is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the cool water and picturesque sand. With a variety of other beaches on the island, you can soak up the sun on the tranquil La Sagesse Beach, located in a beautiful and protected cove and backed by palm trees, spend the afternoon snorkelling and taking in the marine life at Magazine Beach, or enjoy a relaxed afternoon on Morne Rouge beach (known to locals as BBC), enjoying the calm, shallow waters and the tropical breeze.

3. There's a rich heritage to discover

Famously dubbed the 'Isle of Spice', thanks to the wealth of spices and herbs grown on the island, Grenada has a rich heritage that's just waiting to be explored. Visit the Caribbean's oldest functioning water-propelled distillery, River Antoine, for a tasting of the island's exceptional tipple, learn more about Grenada's spice heritage on a guided plantation tour, before purchasing top-quality nutmeg, saffron or cinnamon to add some local flavour to your cooking back home, or if you've got a sweet tooth, don't miss a visit to the 17th-century Belmont Estate, witnessing cocoa beans transform into chocolate bars. Alternatively, visit during July or August and enjoy the biggest annual festival, the Grenada Carnival, renowned for its colour, creativity and unique cultural character, with dancing and activities lining the street until the early hours of the morning.

4. Endless adventures await

Brimming with nature, Grenada boasts remarkable rainforests and stunning landscapes, where you can expect to find otherworldly flora and glistening waterfall pools. Take the opportunity to see these phenomenal rainforests by joining in on an energetic hike or 4x4 drive, before visiting well-loved tourism attractions across the island. Highlights include the breathtaking Grand Etang National Park, historic Fort Frederick which boasts beautiful views in all directions, the Susan Mains Art Gallery filled with contemporary Caribbean art, and much more! You also mustn't miss the inimitable Monlinere Underwater Sculpture Park. Located in the Molinere Beauséjour Marine Protected Area, this collection of over 65 ecological and contemporary sculptures showcases the history and culture of the island it inhabits. Built to relieve pressure off the natural reefs and attracting an array of marine species in areas where damaged reefs previously existed, this underwater marvel can only be accessed by snorkelling, diving or a trip in a glass-bottom boat.

5. There's a luxury hotel for everyone

Classically Caribbean in style, the all-inclusive and family-owned Spice Island Beach Resort is set to reopen this October after a renovation, opening the doors to an intimate exploration of Grand Anse Beach, whilst enjoying a luxurious stay in one of their sumptuous suites. Alternatively, stay in the contemporary Silversands, which exudes beach club glamour, home to Caribbean's longest pool and a selection of ultra-luxe accommodation, all waiting for you. Casually chic and offering just 16 romantic cottages and three luxury villas, unique Laluna blends the styles of Caribbean, Italy and Bali. This unique and bohemian escape is situated in the tranquil Portici Bay, only two bays south of the famous Grand Anse Beach.

Elegant Traveller