Svatý Jiří / Grenada

The state of Grenada, consisting of the main island of the same name and several other smaller islets (Carriacou, Rhode Island, etc.), is located less than 100 km from the Venezuelan coast. Its location essentially closes the arc of the Windward Islands, which separate the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic. Although Grenada is overshadowed by far more famous islands, it is truly a magical place. In addition to beautiful beaches, it offers a diverse interior full of thermal springs, waterfalls, lakes, and beautiful nature. Grenada is also nicknamed the "island of spices," as nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger are grown here in large quantities.   

The island's area is only 344 km², making Grenada one of the smallest independent states in the Western Hemisphere. Approximately 110,000 inhabitants live here in total. When Christopher Columbus arrived here in 1498 during his third voyage, the island was controlled by the warlike Carib tribe. Although the Spaniards never settled here permanently, they left at least the name Granada (later changed to Grenada), which they gave to the island in honor of the famous city in Andalusia. In 1650, it was purchased by France. After exterminating the original inhabitants, they brought the first black slaves from Africa to work on the sugar cane plantations. The French also founded the capital Fort Royal in a strategically located natural harbor, which the English later renamed Saint George's. After the Seven Years' War in 1763, the island fell to the British Kingdom. During the 19th century, sugar cane was replaced by cocoa, which also became the main export commodity. In the 20th century, however, due to the favorable climate, the cultivation of nutmeg, cinnamon, or cardamom prevailed. Grenada was also closer to the British Kingdom than the Dutch East Indies, which was famous for its spice exports. Spice production is still very important for the island's economy, despite the significant growth of tourism. The island gained independence in 1974, yet remained a member of the Commonwealth, with the British queen as its head.

Saint George's, the island's capital majestically overlooking the natural harbor of Carenage, is rightly considered one of the most picturesque in the Caribbean. Its panorama is complemented by two massive forts, Fort George and Fort Frederick, which protect the center full of shops and pleasant cafes from two sides. Nearby is the famous coral beach Grand Anse Beach or the Grand Etang National Park with crater lakes, 30 m high Annandale waterfalls, and rainforests where you can encounter armadillos, monkeys, and opossums. 

Places worth seeing:

- Saint George's

- Fort George

- Grand Anse Beach

- Grand Etang National Park

- Underwater Sculptures

- Belmond Estate

- Annandale Waterfalls

Enjoy local specialties…

Rums

Carib – local beer

Calaloo – soup made from local leafy greens similar to spinach

Oildown – national dish, salted pork stewed in coconut milk with breadfruit and root vegetables

Nutmeg Ice Cream