Destination information
Grenada Holidays 2012 / 2013
This small island is just 22 miles by 12 miles and is mostly undeveloped and rural in nature. However, Grenada is huge on romance and provides a haven of tranquillity for tourists. Far less touristy than many of its Caribbean neighbours, Grenada Holidays are the perfect spot for a quiet getaway. Indulge yourself at an all-inclusive hotel, where your every need will be catered for. Most of the tourist resorts are located on the island’s south-west coast; the airport and some of the nicest beaches are also there. If you prefer to choose accommodation on a room-only basis, you can enjoy a delicious, leisurely meal at one of Grenada’s fantastic restaurants or shop for local delicacies at a conveniently located supermarket. The locals love welcoming visitors to their island, and Grenadians are some of the warmest, most polite people you’ll ever meet.
Sightseeing Ideas
Grenada has lots of natural beauty, just waiting to be explored. The island’s interior is covered with dense rainforest and lush tropical jungle. A most incredible place to visit is the Grand Etang National Park. Spend a day trekking through the park, which is home to wild monkeys and exotic tropical birds. Concord Falls is a gorgeous natural landmark you also won’t want to miss whilst on holiday in Grenada. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to lovely beaches, but Grand Anse is a very popular holiday destination for its immaculate white sand and turquoise waters. Black Bay is actually black, with silky black volcanic sand. If diving’s your thing, head to the beaches off Boss or Molinaire Reefs.
Mingle with the friendly locals in the pretty town of St. George’s, which has arguably one of the best seafronts in the Caribbean. There are bustling spice markets here, as well as a historic fort, colourful homes, ancient stone buildings and the Carenage natural harbour. With our Grenada holiday packages, you can enjoy a free tour of Fort George, a visit to a spice market and breathtaking views from the harbour. Another of the island’s larger towns is Victoria - here you can hike the cliffs for amazing views of the sea...just beware of falling rocks!
Hire a boat and plan an excursion to the neighbouring island of Carriacou, where you’ll find West Indian life in its purest form. There are green hills just begging to be hiked and pristine hidden beaches waiting to be discovered. Petit Martinique, Grenada’s second little sister, makes a fantastic day trip as well. Here you’ll find an even slower pace and breathtaking, untouched scenery. There’s a small community of locals - this tiny island has less than a thousand permanent residents - but they exude the same hospitality and charm you’ll find on the more developed islands.
Sightseeing ideas
Key Events
07 Feb - 34th Anniversary of Independence.
20-23 Mar - 6th Grenada Round the Island Easter Regatta.
11 Aug - Carnival Monday.
Star attractions
- Secluded Coves
- Spice Markets
- Concord Falls
- Colourful Reefs for Snorkelling or Diving
- Stunning Walks in Grand Etang National Park
Postcards from... Top ideas from our travel experts
Our Top 4 hotels
Grenadian by rex resorts is a good value property, popular among families. The hotel is set between 2 beaches, one of which is dedicated to water sports. Accommodation is either set on the hillside or beside the lake with ocean views across Tamarind Bay to St George, the island’s capital. Activities include kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing, snorkelling and scuba-diving.
Amid a flowering garden of palm trees, hibiscus, frangipani and bougainvillea, is the Coyaba Beach Resort. Perched on the world famous Grand Anse Beach, the hotel's unique design is themed on Arawak-Indian life from a bygone era.
This friendly, locally owned hotel is built into the hillside, offering every room a view over picturesque Grand Anse Bay and its world-renowned beach. While away your days lounging by the freshwater pool or walk down the steps across the road to the beach where the hotel's beach bistro serves drinks and snacks.
Blue Horizons Garden Resort is a friendly complex providing self catering accommodation in a lush landscape of colourful flowers, just a short stroll from Grand Anse Beach. As well as being a relaxing retreat for visitors, it is also home to over 2 dozen species of indigenous birds; so don't forget your binoculars.
Additional info
Beaches and Water Sports
Backed by hills, Grand Anse boasts a lovely sweep of white sand fronted by turquoise waters. In contrast, Black Bay has silky fine black volcanic sand. Divers will love Boss and Molinaire Reefs.
Culture and Spices
Picturesque St George's is home to spice markets and the Carenage natural harbour. Hike into the Grand Etang National Park to visit spectacular Concord Falls. Marvel at the stunning views.
Help a Local School
In the wake of Hurricane Ivan in Sep 2004, many homes and schools were destroyed. Help rebuild Grenada's future by donating a book, new or used, to your Virgin Holidays' rep who will pass it on to needy schools.
FREE Island Experience
Combine a heady trip to a local spice market with a tour of Fort George on our FREE island experience. Located at the northern end of the Carenage, enjoy stunning views of St George's from its ramparts.
Taste of Adventure
Grenadines Sailing See the Caribbean on your own private yacht, sailing around the beautiful islands of the Grenadines.
Total Flexibility
Tailor-make your ideal Caribbean holiday by combining hotels we feature in different destinations. Try a twin- or triple-centre holiday across different islands or combine with a US city or theme park visit.
Weather and climate
Different destinations have different magic touches so make sure to check out the "Rockstar Service" to see what makes your holiday with us so special.
Getting there
Flight Details - You fly direct from London Gatwick on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service.
Flight Time - Approx 9 hours 40 min.
Time Difference - GMT -4 hours.
Language - English.
Currency - Eastern Caribbean Dollar EC$.
Handy stuff
Local Living
Small beer - £0.80.
Can of coke - £0.45.
Loaf of bread - £0.70.
Bottle of wine - £4.80.
The above are approx local supermarket costs.
Check In Chill Out is our fantastic service that allows you to soak up the sun right until the last minute.
This service is available at selected hotels in Barbados, Antigua, Tobago, Grenada and St Lucia. Check with your rep in resort if you aren’t staying at one of the participating hotels as you may be able to use a location nearby. Simply look for the Check In Chill Out icon on participating hotel pages.
Read more about our Check In Chill Out Service...