Friday July 04, 2008

From spice plantations to sugar-sand beaches, find out what makes Grenada a vacation spot to write home about

Attractive Attributes

Grenada is a truly exceptional Caribbean destination, blending a rich heritage with amazing natural beauty. Travelers will quickly find that the Spice Island is jam-packed with a variety of attractions that appeal to every interest.

Beach enthusiasts will find more than 40 unique shores with access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. With so many to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down your options. So don't! Spend the morning at the famous Grand Anse Beach, known for its breathtaking white sand, and then head over to the sheltered bay of La Sagesse Beach. Each has its own distinct style, and sampling as many beaches as possible is the only way to find out which will best complement your vacation style.

But beaches aren't the only way to enjoy nature on the island: national parks, waterfalls, and even a rainforest can be found here. Visiting Grand Etang National Park, located in the center of Grenada, is an excellent way to see the island's rainforest as well as several waterfalls, including Seven Sisters Falls. If you'd like to stay a little closer to town, try Bay Gardens, a botanical paradise found just outside St. George's.

Visitors can also tour the River Antoine Rum Distillery or the large Dougaldston Spice Plantation, both of which are still operational and perfect for those eager to learn about the history and culture of Grenada. Another outing to look into is a trip to Fedon's Camp. Accessible only by hiking trail, this historical site served as the base camp for Julien Fedon, a local man who in 1765 led a slave uprising.

While there are a number of great attractions found all over the island of Grenada, the most enticing aspect of a vacation here is that you don't need to feel compelled to do any of them. The laid back atmosphere and gorgeous surroundings are reason enough to visit. But chances are, once travelers reach the shores of this Caribbean paradise they'll be eager to see every inch of Grenada.