How you can perfect the delicate balance of holiday chill and adventure in Grenada
There’s a school of thought that states it’s possible to have too much of a good thing, although we disagree. What’s most important is diversity – especially when it comes to holidays. Often, finding that perfect balance can be tricky, although not in Grenada, a balmy, beautiful Caribbean Island known not only for its laidback way of life but its endless opportunities for adventure – and all now easily accessible with two direct British Airways flights a week from London Gatwick.
Walks and waterfalls
Grenada is one of the Caribbean’s most popular hiking spots, with everything from gentle trails that twist through wildlife-filled forests to challenging routes that streak up the side of Mount St Catherine, which tops out at 2,750 feet (840 metres) above sea level. For something less strenuous, visit Grand Etang Lake and National Park, where routes include the Shoreline Loop Trail and the Morne LaBaye Trail. For a hike that perfectly sums Grenada’s diversity, opt for the Mount Qua Qua to Concord Falls trail, which twists through thick jungle before finishing at the Concord Falls where you can cool off in the glass-clear water.
Underwater art
There aren’t many places where you can combine scuba diving with an art fix, but Grenada is one of them. The island has over 50 easily-accessible diving sites, and there are plenty of spots for snorkellers, too. The diving sites – just like the island – are incredibly varied, ranging from the Caribbean’s largest shipwreck (the Bianca C, which sank off St. George’s Harbour in 1961) to the Molinere Beauséjour Marine Protected Area’s underwater sculpture park. The sculptures, which double as artificial reefs, include The Silent Cry – an underwater representation of the root systems which sustain Grenada’s rainforests.
Take a walk on the wild side
We’ve already mentioned how a hike through Grenada’s parks is a great way to enjoy both an adrenaline fix and a swim beneath one of the island’s prettiest waterfalls, but if your ideal walk involves wildlife, head to the 450 acre Levera National Park. There’s a large network of walking trails, including ones that take in the park’s prettiest beaches. Its mangrove swamp attracts numerous bird species, including herons, black-necked stilts, common snipes and other waterfowl.
Visit Hyde Park Tropical Garden
No matter how many adventures you love to cram into your holiday, downtime is important, and when your batteries need that all-important recharge, head to this beautiful garden, which started life as a tiny kitchen garden. Over the years it’s expanded spectacularly, and its collection now includes palms, cycads and bougainvillea. Located close to St. George’s in the south of the island it’s also a short distance from the Royalton Grenada an ideal all-inclusive resort for those looking to combine ocean views with easy access to Grenada’s breath-taking waterfalls and magical rainforests.
Set sail
Grenada is a fantastic sailing destination – not only experts but for beginners keen to learn the ropes (excuse the pun). Our advice? Let someone else do the hard work and consider chartering a crewed yacht for the day, whether it’s a beautiful schooner or a sleek catamaran to whisk you to the island’s most spectacular locations. Fancy some self-improvement? Sign up for a short sailing course accredited by the American Sailing Association – certifications are offered by several Grenadian sailing outfits.
Embrace island hopping
It’s worth remembering that the main island is just a stone’s throw from the smaller Grenadian islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Numerous companies offer day trips to these destinations, both of which are surrounded by fantastic diving locations. Carriacou is famous for its slow pace of life and High North Peak National Park – a magnet for adrenaline junkies who come to hike its vertiginous trails – while Petite Martinique has numerous caves, delicious seafood and calm, shallow waters perfect for snorkelling.
Enjoy an oarsome experience
Grenada is a great kayaking and paddleboarding spot which attracts everyone from beginners to experts. The best locations are on Grenada’s southern side, which has clear, shallow water - hence its popularity with paddlers keen to flex their oars while embracing the laidback way of life Grenada is famous for. Ramp up the relaxation by signing up for a guided kayaking tour – these often include leisurely lunch stops and have a slower pace designed for participants keen to soak up the views.
Take the bait
Grenada is one of the southern Caribbean’s most popular spots for sea fishing, due to the huge number of pristine coral reefs and numerous areas of deep water, many of which are close to the shoreline. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or nervous first-timer, a sea fishing trip is a brilliant way to gain a new skill along with a new perspective on Grenada – sea fishing trips often take in the island’s most spectacular coastal locations. Don’t know your crank from your casting spoon? Don’t panic – guided trips have onboard experts to help with the basics (and to help you lay out your sun towel should you decide you’d rather just soak up the view).
If you're dreaming of a Grenada holiday, find out how you can make your dream a reality with British Airways. With direct flights from London Gatwick, all British Airways Holidays packages are ATOL protected, include 23kg baggage allowance per person and offer access to a 24-hour holiday helpline. You can also secure your holiday with low deposits. Book now at ba.com/grenada
