I‘m sure you have heard or read about Grenada’s beautiful Belmont Estate before. But have you seen it? Well if you haven’t yet seen the beautiful estate that is Belmont, here are a few pictures that are sure to entice you to come take a look in person. Just click on any photo to start the slide-show.

Belmont Estate Grenada

– 28-Aug-2009	– 20-Feb-2009	– 05-Jan-2007
– 18-Nov-2008	– 17-Oct-2003	OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 19-Sep-2006
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 14-Aug-2008		OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 14-Aug-2008
– 16-Sep-2003
– 16-Sep-2003	– 16-Sep-2003	– 16-Sep-2003
– 16-Sep-2003	– 15-Oct-2003	– 16-Oct-2003
– 16-Oct-2003		– 16-Oct-2003
		– 11-Jan-2008
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 14-Aug-2008	OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 03-Sep-2008	OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 03-Sep-2008
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 03-Sep-2008	OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 03-Sep-2008	OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA – 17-Sep-2008

Related posts:

1. Belmont Estate Grenada Belmont Estate is a 300 year old working Cocoa Plantation...
2. Rhythms and Flavours at Belmont Estate If you are in Grenada on Sunday November 8th, then...

Belmont Estate is a 300 year old working Cocoa Plantation in Grenada offering:

• Tours
• A Creole Restaurant
• Local Crafts and Produce
• Cultural Entertainment
• Animals
• Gardens
• Organic Chocolate
• And many other activities.

I’ve known about Belmont Estate for long time and it’s on my list of Must Visit Places. I know this Grenada Attraction is becoming even more attractive simply because of the increasing number of positive reviews I hear and read about it.

Here are just a few General Comments from recent guests:

“We were struck by the beauty of the place set in a truly spectacular and natural landscape”

“The Estate exceeded my expectations and was very welcoming”

“It was very interesting to learn about local history, a fascinating place, lovely smells too!”

“We loved tasting the chocolate and the guava and seeing the goats at the dairy”

Contacting Belmont Estate

• Opening Hours: Sunday through Friday (closed Saturday)
• Reservations: Call 473 442 9524
• Email: info@belmontestate.net
• Website: www.belmontestate.net

Belmont Estate, Grenada’s finest historical estate. Be sure to include them in your Grenada travel plans.

Related posts:

1. Grenada’s Belmont Estate in Pictures I‘m sure you have heard or read about Grenada’s beautiful...
2. Rhythms and Flavours at Belmont Estate If you are in Grenada on Sunday November 8th, then...

It didn’t take the Caribs very long to figure out that they were swindled by the French. As the story goes the French gave the Caribs a few bottles of Brandy, and some beads in exchange for the right to settle in Grenada.

Eventually the Brandy finished, and the Caribs grew bored with the shiny trinkets, so they attacked and killed several Frenchmen.

Of course the the French did not take this lying down and decided to wipe out the Caribs. The Caribs last stand was at what’s now the town of Sauteurs in St. Patricks. As the European historians tell it, the few Caribs that were not killed refused to surrender to the French, and instead leaped over the precipice.

Hmmm… I wonder if the French didn’t just force the Caribs to jump… guess we will never find out.

The French called the precipice Le Morne De Sauteurs, which translated means Leapers Hill. Hence the reason the town that developed there is called Sauteurs. The hill is also referred to as Caribs Leap.

Okay enough with the history lesson for today. What you should know is that if you are in Sauteurs St. Patricks, then you should visit Leapers Hill.

There is a very nice museum of sorts at Leapers Hill that has a collection of Carib artifacts. I have pictures but you will have to go visit the museum yourself.

Ms. Patterson, the guide at the museum, with one of the paintings.

It will cost you about US$2.00 to get in, a small price to see and learn more about Grenada’s history. The museum is also an excellent vantage point from which to see the islands north of Grenada including Carriacou.

No related posts.

You probably don’t know what’s an Underwater Sculpture Park, and I bet you also don’t know that the first one ever created is in Grenada. After you watch these two short videos you will be even more excited about snorkeling in Grenada.

Awesome Video of Underwater Sculpture Park

Interview with the Artist Jason de Caires Taylor

My Time at the Underwater Sculpture Park

Cold and Murky, but Impressive. That about sums it up. The water was so friggin cold I forgot I was in sunny warm Grenada. And the sea surge made the visibility difficult.

What can you do?…You can’t fight mother nature. It wasn’t our day.

But I must say that even with all the cold and murkiness, the park is truly an amazing piece of work. It’s quite impressive to look at the sculptures in real life, even though some of them got beaten up by the strong sea surge, and were thrown out of place.

I definitely plan to go see it again on a more pleasant day.

Getting to the Sculpture Park

Any of the Dive shops on the island can take you there. We used our friends Rachel and Adrian at Native Spirit Scuba.

No related posts.

One of the things I enjoy at Annandale Waterfalls is the jumpers. Here are some pictures and a video of an Annandale Jumper doing his thing. This is risky business… it rained quite heavily that day. And as if the rain, and slippery stones weren’t enough, it was clear to us that this guy already had a few drinks that morning.

Jumper Ready. He’s at least 6 ft (2m) tall.

Video of Annandale Jumper

The Jump Frame by Frame

He lives to jump another day

Annandale Waterfalls Grenada Triumphant Jumper

Don’t forget to leave something in the donation box, its expected.

No related posts.

The answer to that question is I don’t know… for sure. If seeing is believing, then I ‘m no believer, because I have not seen anyone commit this act. But I can tell you this much: I’ve met many who claim to have eaten monkey before. Is it just ole talk as we Grenadians will say? Is it some kind of bragging rights? I haven’t the faintest idea.

Mona Monkey Grand Etang

But don’t you worry. You don’t run the risk of having a half rack of monkey ribs landing on your plate at your favorite Grenada Restaurant. To the best of my knowledge the Monkeys in Grenada are protected. And hunting them is outlawed. If this practice really do exist it most certainly is not widespread, and its done on the “down low” (in secret).

So a little background here. The monkeys found in Grenada are the Mona Monkeys. They’re not indigenous to Grenada. And it’s a little sketchy exactly when they were introduced to Grenada. Some say the Mona Monkey came to Grenada during the slave trade with West Africa, which by the way is the original home of the Mona Monkey.

The BBC Science & Nature describes the Mona as follows:

Mona monkeys have a brown agouti back with a white rump, a black tail and black outer-parts on the limbs. They have cheek pouches in which to carry food while they forage. The face is a blue-gray color with a dark stripe running from each eye to each ear, a white forehead and a pink muzzle.

The monkeys feed mainly on fruits and plants, but are know to also eat insets. That explains why the Mona Monkeys in Grenada became so desperate and disillusioned after hurricane Ivan. Their habitat was left in total disarray, and they were forced to stray further than usual to find food. Many more Monkeys than normal were spotted in the months immediately after hurricane Ivan, and this sometimes led to confrontation with Grenadians.

When you get to Grenada your best chance of seeing a Mona Monkey will be in Grand Etang. They really are a beautiful site, and they are not shy. You will also want to guard your stuff while they are around… it’s useless trying to chase a monkey through the bushes to retrieve your prized possession.

As far as I know Grenada is one of the few countries in the western hemisphere that have Mona Monkeys. They are a national treasure for everyone to admire (NOT eat). I hope you find as much joy in the Mona Monkeys as I do when ever I see one.

Many thanks to Jake Bellucci for graciously making his images (the first 3) available to this post.

No related posts.

by Lee
(Toronto, On, Canada)

Heard about the Gouyave fish friday and gave it a try. The road up to Gouyave was not very good, but the food and the atmosphere made up for it.

My sister-in-Law was intent on buying up all of the fried Jacks. The fried breadfruit was great also. The hit of the night was the snapper in tin foil. It was a meal to enjoy.

It was nice to see how well attended this event was. There was a mix of locals and tourist. It was very safe for anyone planning to attend.

Met the owner for Phare Bleu and he takes a boat up to Gouyave every Friday. He also has a great deal for locals on the weekends. Next time I am in town, I am going to try the boat route.

No related posts.

I almost always stop at Annandale Waterfalls whenever I’m in Grenada. Located in the very green villages of Willis/New Hampshire in St George’s, it’s one of the most accessible, and frequently visited of all Grenada’s Waterfalls. Click here to find out the most entertaining time to visit Annandale waterfalls.

Here are a couple pictures to hold you over until you get here…

Annandale Waterfalls Grenada

Look for more pictures of Annandale Waterfalls at The Grenada Pictures Gallery

Related posts:

1. Grenada’s Belmont Estate in Pictures I‘m sure you have heard or read about Grenada’s beautiful...

Diving Grenada with Native Spirit Scuba

If you love Scuba Diving then checkout Native Spirit Scuba Dive shop at the Grand Beach Hotel on Grand Anse Beach. It’s ran by one of Grenada’s top divers: Adrian a.k.a Sarge, along with his lovely wife Rahel.

Sarge is also a long time friend. Tell him you know me, and you will dive for free…. Okay, okay I’m just kidding about the dive for free thing!! But seriously though I’ve know Sarge all my life, and he’s one of the nicest guys you can meet.

Personally I’m not big on scuba diving, not because I don’t like scuba diving, but because I suck at it!! And that’s putting it mildly.

Luckily, Sarge and his crew at Native Scuba promise to take care of that on my next trip. If only I had listen to him 15 years ago, I’d be long ago enjoying all of Grenada’s dive sites, just like you are about to do.

I think you will be happy to know that:

• Sarge has been in this game for almost 20 years, maybe more,
• And that he is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer - that means you will be in very safe, and experienced hands

I doubt anyone knows the ins and outs of Grenada Diving as he does.

I guess you can say sea water runs through his veins… as kids growing up, Sarge and his brothers were among the best at spear fishing, swimming, snorkeling… you name it, if it involved the sea they can do it.

Even if you go with another Grenada dive shop there is a good chance that you will dive with one of Sarge’s students. So you might as well dive Grenada with the real deal.

Native Spirit Scuba can also help you plan Fishing Excursions, Snorkeling trips, among other things so call them or stop by and see how they can help arrange a little adventure above or below the blue Grenada waters for you.

Some Native Spirit Scuba Dive Shop Pictures

Sarge, gave me a little tour last time…. lot’s of top quality gears available if you don’t bring your own.

Compressor I think he called this… look I told you I’m no diver

Sarge giving the girls some instructions before they get underway

Everyone is gearing up to go diving the Grenada reefs

Meet June the dive boat, you gonna need her to get to those Grenada dive sites

The view of Grand Anse Beach from the Dive shop. If Scuba Diving in Grenada is not your thing, then you can always get Kayaks, and other fun water crafts from them for your enjoyment.

The dive shop is towards the northern end of Grand Anse Beach on the Grand Beach Hotel grounds. It’s between the main beach entrance at Camahogne park, and the vendors market. Just ask any beach vendor or look for this sign…

Visit Native Spirit Scuba website for details.

Click Here to tell me about your Grenada Diving adventure.

Return from Diving Grenada with Native Spirit Scuba to Grenada Beaches homepage

No related posts.

Lake Antoine Grenada … Yet Another Treasure

Another example of Grenada’s natural beauty, and variety is Lake Antoine. It’s located in Grenada’s most northern parish, St Patricks.

It is the second largest lake on the island, the largest is Grand Etang Lake.

I won’t suggest that you come to St Patrick’s just for Lake Antoine, but you certainly will want to stop by if you are ever in the area.

Lake Anotine is the source of River Antoine, which plays a vital role at River Antoine Estate, the home of Grenada’s famous Rivers Rim.

After a tour at River Antoine Estate, and some rum tasting we continued north.

We made a left turn up a narrow, bumpy unpaved road to a hill top overlooking the lake.

A nice spot for pictures, and appreciating Grenada’s unspoiled beauty.

The fertile soil around the lake is used for the cultivation of Organic Bananas that are exported.

While we are on the subject of lakes, check out Grenada most popular lake …Grand Etang

OR

Return from Lake Antoine to River Antoine Rivers Rum

Related posts:

1. Belmont Estate Grenada Belmont Estate is a 300 year old working Cocoa Plantation...

Gouyave = Fish and Fun

It’s Friday, you’re in Grenada, and you’re a seafood lover, then Gouyave Fish Fridays is the only place you need to be.

I was still in San Juan Puerto Rico, and about to start the last leg of my trip to Grenada. I got to talking to this guy and the question Where is the best Grenada hang out on a Friday Night? came up. That’s when I first got the scoop on Gouyave Fish Fridays.

Gouyave the town that never sleeps

Gouyave is a fishing village to the northwest of Grenada, about 45 minutes from the hotel district in the south. It’s known in Grenada as the town that never sleeps.

More fish is caught by Gouyave’s fishermen than anywhere else on the island. Some Gouyave fishermen were even awarded medals by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. So what you need to know is that Gouyave people know their Seafood.

With the introduction of Gouyave Fish Fridays this already lively little coastal town, has become even more lively. The event as the name suggests takes place every Friday, from 6PM – until (normally about 1AM).

Stop Here before you go to Gouyave

On my last Friday in Grenada I decided to check out Gouyave Fish Fridays. We planned with a few friends to all meet in Gouyave. I did not not want to drive (I wanted to drink, and was still a tad bit uncomfortable Driving in Grenada ) so I asked my buddy to pick us up. We left St. George’s around 7:45PM.

On our way to Gouyave we stopped of at Pappy’s shop in the village of Concord to taste some local Grenada Wine and Liqueurs. It’s a nice stop, and all part of the fun driving up on the west coast. Needless to say by the time we arrived in Gouyave around 8:20 PM I already had my buzz going.

The Main Event

Gouyave Fish Fridays is of course open air. Vendors line St. Francis and St. Dominic streets with their grills, fryers, steamers and cookers, which result in some of the most mouth watering Grenada seafood you could imagine:

Fish Cakes Shrimp Kebabs Jerked Marlin Barbecued Snapper fry jacks Lobster Conch

… and all the other things to go along with local seafood like

• roast bakes, fry bakes (especially great with fish cakes)
• tropical juices
• and of course beers, and genuine Grenadian Rum

Fish cakes are a personal favorite. They are made from shredded salted Cod or Pollock, that’s battered and deep fried … you just got to love it! They are especially good when eaten with fry bakes (taste like a chewy bread, but 10 times better)

Here is Mia getting some fry Jacks. Which she totally fell in love with. I think some made it all the way back to the Washington DC.

Jacks are quite small, about the length of your palm, and about the width of you two fingers together (some larger some smaller). When fried they are a treat. Just watch out for the bones.

You probably won’t find such a wide collection of fresh tasty Grenada seafood like this anywhere else, so do like me … go wild! Sample everything! Be adventurous! Try things you’ve never had, nor heard of before … how else are you going to find out if you love it madly?

But Watch out for that hot pepper sauce. It’s a Ball of Fire!!! I put too much on my fried Marlin, and suffered dearly … it took several Carib beers to bring the temperature in my mouth back to normal.

Music at Gouyave Fish Friday

One thing you will quickly discover with Grenadians is that where there’s food, and people … music is sure to follow. We got there in time to catch some incredible drumming. That was a nice complement to the DJ.

Gouyave Fish Fridays is still in it’s infancy, and no doubt will blossom into something magnificent. I want to make a point to you if you are a Non Caribbean Visitors to help set your expectations.

I believe that Grenada is one of the safest places you will find anywhere to bring your family on vacation. And that Grenadians are as friendly and welcoming as it gets.

That said you should know that this is largely a local event, that is patronized mainly by locals. Everyone is welcome to Gouyave Fish Fridays, BUT just know that it is NOT your typical made especially for tourist event .

If you are comfortable being in the company of locals, and open to learning about Grenada’s culture you will have a great time. But if you are uneasy about mingling, then you best remain at your hotel. Remember you create your own reality.

The event by itself was magnificent, but being with a great bunch of friends made it even more spectacular for me. I say this to encourage you to bring along some friends with you.

What about Kids?

Gouyave Fish Fridays is not the best environment for kids. It might be okay if you get there right at the start when there aren’t as many people. But in general you can expect

• 95% adults,
• Alcoholic beverages being consumed in the open,
• And the occasional Adult Language.

So if this does not sound like the environment you want little Johnny and Jenny exposed to then you might want to make other arrangements for them …

The Wrap Up

It rained a bit while we were there, but that did not take away one bit from the good times we were having. Gouyave Fish Fridays was a super hang out.

After loading up on some Fry Jacks to take away, we left at about 11:00 PM and headed south to Club Bananas (more good times)… our Friday night (or Saturday morning) was just beginning.

Gouyave Fish Friday Pictures

Here are some more pictures of our awesome hangout at Gouyave Fish Friday. Hope you can insert yourself in there some where. Enjoy:

What’s Your Best Ever Gouyave Fish Friday?

Well I always have a fabulous time at Gouyave Fish Friday. But what about you? What did you enjoy most at Fish Friday? Was it the:

• Tasty Seafood?
• Lively Music?
• Vivacious People?
• Or the whole shebang?

If you liked it, then share it with us! Right here!… Let’s hear your favorite Gouyave Fish Friday Story.

cforms contact form by delicious:days

Click below to see contributions from other Fish Friday visitors…

• Enjoying A New Grenadian Tradition
  Heard about the Gouyave fish friday and gave it a try. The road up to Gouyave was not very good, but the food and the atmosphere made up for it.

No related posts.

There are enough tourist attractions in Grenada to keep you busy and wanting to come back for more. The Grenada Tourist Attractions below is a good place to start. It doesn’t take a genius to see that Grenada’s attractions offer more than a few strips of white sand and a patch of rain forest-just scroll on down!!.

Best Beaches

The Caribbean is synonymous with fabulous beaches. And Grenada won’t disappoint you here-beaches are high up on the list of Grenada Tourist Attractions.

Grenada’s beaches can make you act like a kid all vacation long.

• Worry free, nonchalant
• with Big grin you can’t wipe off your face

You also find yourself repeating the words This is the Life over and over. Be careful!! That little voice just might convince you never to return home.

Photos can never capture this feeling, but its the best we can do until you get here. Start with My Top 6 Grenada Beaches… I am sure they will very soon become your some of your all time favorite beaches.

Nature Lovers

Even the beach bum in all of us needs a beach break sometimes… right? So what’s a beach lover to do when her tan is golden and she’s had enough umbrella cocktails?… She heads inland to to find the Grenada Tourist Attractions that the Nature Lovers rave about

• Volcanic Lakes – Grand Etang Lake and Lake Antoine are two undeveloped volcanic crater lakes waiting for you to explore… no bungalows, no boats, just you and nature. Good place to find that perfect spot to reflect on life and all the great new things you will achieve when you return home.
• Waterfalls – Annandale Waterfalls and Concord Waterfalls are just two of the many waterfalls at your disposal. Don’t think Niagara Falls, nothing on that scale. I am talking about your perfectly sized waterfalls where you can get up close and personal-take a swim, and watch dare-devil divers do there thing
• Best of all you don’t have to be Indiana Jones to find these nature lovers Grenada tourist attractions… just click here.

Gardens

Some things are so beautiful they can stop us right in our tracks, and almost demand that we appreciate their existence. The beautiful flowers and plants that punctuate Grenada tend to do just that.

And the good thing is you don’t have to trek through the interior on a flower hunt to find and appreciate all the different varieties-just check out one of the local Gardens. Of all the tourist attractions in Grenada, the tropical flower gardens is one that I think many visitors miss.

One tropical Garden in particular that I like was featured on Britain’s Channel 4 TV Network in Gardens of the Caribbean it’s called Sunnyside Gardens and I highly recommend it.

You can also find out more about the flowers of Grenada, and see why Grenada won 5 consecutive Gold Medal at the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show. Yes these folks all have green thumbs(unlike me)… So if you enjoy beautiful gardens like my mom and sister do, then you are in for a treat at this Grenada tourist attraction.

Grenada Sailing

If it fits into your budget sailing might just be your perfect tourist attraction in Grenada. There are lots of opportunities for sailing on Grenada.

• You can charter a yacht and experience the island’s beauty from the sea by sailing around Grenada.
• You can plan a bigger outing and head up to the Grenadines onto St. Vincent. On the way you will stop just long enough to get a taste of the magnificent Grenadines – fabulous beaches, excellent snorkeling … heaven on earth.
• Click here for more on why Grenada Sailing makes for a super Grenada tourist attraction

Grenada Sailing Festivals and regattas take place throughout the year. Local yachts, and others from nearby Trinidad, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines compete. Think of this Grenada Tourist Attraction as really a big party-food, rum, sweet steel pan music, DJ’s, and people out to have fun-you gonna love this-if not for the sailing itself, then certainly for all the partying.

Carnival Festival

There are festivals sprinkled throughout the year, but the crown jewel is of course in August. Yes, as one local calypso puts it August is the time… the time for Carnival.

You can always tell when carnival is in the air. The energy and enthusiasm is high, the bars are bustling, the radios are blasting Soca and calypso music 24/7, and there are too many parties for you to attend.

Grenada Carnival is several weeks of endless partying and good times culminating on the 2nd Monday and Tuesday in August … think New Orleans Mardi Gras, or Brazil Carnival

The first year I missed carnival (I was abroad) I was depressed all summer… so be warned… all this carnival fun can be addictive. But it’s a good addiction, and we will love nothing more than to have you for carnival every August.

Grenada History

Grenada has a rich history. From it’s Amerindian days, the battles between the British and the French, to the more recent Coup d’etat, Grenada revolution and the US invasion of Grenada. The people, the language, the songs the sites all hold part of the story that is Grenada’s History.

Several Historical Sites awaiting you, and here are two to get the ball roiling:

• Fort George – This is a must visit Grenada tourist Attraction. Established in 1705, the fort overlooks the town and harbor offering magnificent views, and a reminder of the colonial times. But that’s not why you will want to visit. When I think of Fort George I am reminded of the darkest period in Grenada’s history . A period that to this day will evoke much emotion from many Grenadians.
• Fort Frederick – More history of the early power struggle between the French and the British. It’s also one of the best places to see the magnificent views of capital city of St. George and the south of the island.

Return from Grenada Tourist Attractions to Grenada Beaches

Related posts:

1. Belmont Estate Grenada Belmont Estate is a 300 year old working Cocoa Plantation...

Gouyave Nutmeg Pool

Nutmeg once drew the most tourists to Gouyave, which still hosts the largest processing station on the island – Gouyave Nutmeg Pool. Prior to Hurricane Ivan, Grenada was the world’s second largest producer of the spice which largely accounts for the faint aroma that pervades the town of Gouyave.

(Photo above: Nutmegs drying at Gouyave Nutmeg Pool)

Over the years, thousands of tourist acquainted themselves with the processing of the nutmeg fruit at the Gouyave Nutmeg Pool

• from the separation from the pod,
• to the detachment of the surrounding mace,
• to the cracking of the shell,
• and eventual sorting of the nutmeg.

This four step process was carried out and explained to visitors in what for many years was the largest building in Grenada.

(Photo above: Nutmegs dried and ready for export)

Now, although the nutmeg industry is largely in recovery, the process continues on a smaller scale at the Gouyave Nutmeg Pool. And it is even more defined for visitors like you.

On your visit, get your hands on sample packs of Grenada’s array of some of the most aromatic spices. So when you visit Gouyave add some spice to your life, by checking out the Gouyave Nutmeg Pool.

Related Pages:

1. Grenada Spices
2. Gouyave Dougaldston Estate

No related posts.

Dougaldston Estate, Gouyave

Dougaldston Estate is the first stop into Gouyave from the south. It was once one of the largest and most productive cocoa and banana plantations on the island. At Dougaldston, you can still witness the remnants of old slave and laborer barracks that lie in ruins amidst the shadow of the “big house”, commonly called the “great house.”

This, of course, is the name accorded to the former slave master or subsequent estate owner’s house. The plantation itself, though just a shadow of its former self, still operates on a small scale.

Here is a photo of a Cocoa tree with cocoa pods at Dougaldston Estate. This is where your chocolate products really begin.

The processing of cocoa, that prime bean that produces some of the world’s finest chocolate, is the main agricultural activity still evident. Banana trees, once the economic life blood of the plantation, now are few and far between as are nutmeg trees that largely were victim to Hurricane Ivan in 2004.

To the left is a photo of “Drying Cocoa”, an intermediate step before it is exported for manufacturing.

Dougaldston Estate is still an interesting tourist destination as many of the traditional activities are scheduled to accommodate visitors. Make this a quick stop off on your way into Gouyave.

Return from Dougaldston Estate to Gouyave Page

Return from Dougaldston Estate to Grenada Beaches Home

Related posts:

1. Belmont Estate Grenada Belmont Estate is a 300 year old working Cocoa Plantation...
2. Grenada’s Belmont Estate in Pictures I‘m sure you have heard or read about Grenada’s beautiful...

Our visit to Annandale Waterfalls was short, but it stands out as one of my most memorable stops. 

Grenada tourist attractions like Annandale Falls can get crowded when the cruise ships are in port. So I try to avoid visits on those days. As my luck will have it there were at least three cruise ships in port the morning I had schedule to visit Annadale Waterfalls.

To go or not to go, that was the question. Well you already know that answer: I decided to go …and am glad I did.

The very thing that I was trying to avoid: many tourists, is the very thing that made Annandale Waterfalls so special, on that day. 

Here’s why? You see where there are tourist, the vendors, the show men, even the monkeys, and all forms of entertainment are sure to follow. And Annandale Waterfalls on a cruise ship day has its own special cast of local characters to entertain you.

Annandale Falls Quick Video

First here is a video preview of Annadale Waterfalls. Check it out to get a sneak peak of what’s in store for you. 

Now let’s dive a little deeper into Annadale Falls and meet some of the cast that make this Grenada attraction a must visit.

Act #1 – Bananas in the Balance

The first to hook my attention were the colorfully dressed ladies with what looked like elaborate head pieces.

On closer inspection I realized they were actually balancing on their heads an array of tropical fruits.

Here is Ryian to the left posing for a picture with them.

One woman had an oversize basket of cocoa, decorated with purple bougainvillea (the national flower). The other an entire bunch of green bananas.

It is a portrayal of how ladies carried the bananas from the plantation in colonial times. And an exhibition of local Grenada fruits. It takes amazing skill just to stand and balance an entire bunch of bananas on your head. Can you imagine carrying it for long distances over winding, bumpy tracks?

Do get a picture with the lovely ladies, and don’t forger to give small tip … see the pouches/purses strapped around their waist? Well it’s not there for decoration

Act #2 – The Guitar Man

At Annandale Waterfalls the good times is accompanied by music. Next up was the Guitar Man …

This guy is full of energy, and extremely talented. He is great at composing and singing humorous lyrics off the cuff.  

In Grenada we call it Extempore Singing and there’s even local competitions from time to time … but thats another story.

This Annandale Falls Guitar man if he spots you will without request sing a verse or two about you, or your lady friend. He had everyone cracking up, and some of the ladies blushing.

Act #3 The Monkey and The Man

Look for this guy with his pet monkey. He does have the monkey on a leash but do keep your close eye on him (the monkey). Like all Mona Monkeys they are very tricky, and might snatch away your belongings from you.

Here is Ryian trying to get acquainted with this dynamic duo.

Act #4 – Annandale Dare Devil Divers

I saved the best Act for last, and The Annandale Waterfalls Divers is a class act.

As we moved closer down the hill I noticed several local guys sporting red shorts and tops … it did not take me long to figure out who they were and why they were there.

Two decades before I saw someone leap off the top of Annandale Waterfalls. And from the looks of things, I was going to get lucky again. 

This is no easy feat. The falls is not extremely high, but its high enough to do you some serious damage if you don’t know what you are doing.

Also as one of the divers told us, what you can’t see can also kill you. The pool has boulders beneath the water that are not visible from above. Plunging in the wrong spot, can leave a diver hospitalized or dead, and this has happened in the past.

Here are some pics of the divers doing there thing …. Drum Roll Please

Look he’s ready to fly. On your Mark, … Get Set … BANG!!!

Lift Off, he’s flying …

Still flying … look Ma No Hands!!!

Splash!!! … Just missed him. Was it a safe landing?

Yes, he made it. All is well. Another successful Annandale Dive.

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

After taking many photos we headed back towards the car. Along the way we passed vendors with handicrafts, and other items that will make great gifts.

Try a Cold Coconut

If you are thirsty … check out the guys selling the cold coconuts, it’s very refreshing and all natural. And after you quench your thirst or curiosity, have them split the coconut shell in half with the machete. In there you will find the sweet white coconut jelly, my favorite part of the coconut … just give it a try.

We left Annandale Waterfalls on a high. This is definitely a fun place to visit, even without all the extras. Just the waterfalls by itself is gorgeous. If you want more privacy, or something more on the romantic side, then go on a late afternoon when there are no cruise ships. But I highly recommend visiting Annandale Waterfalls when all the acts are on display.

Return from Annandale Waterfalls to Grenada National Parks

Return from Annandale Waterfalls to Grenada Beaches Home

No related posts.

Gouyave Fisherman’s Birthday Celebration 29^th June

Gouyave’s big festival is the annual Fisherman’s Birthday bash which falls on June 29^th. The day is actually the recognition day of the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, fishermen who Christianity recognizes as Christ’s closest disciples.

So here is a quick run down of how the Gouyave Fisherman’s Birthday Bash unfolds;

1. The Day Before

2. • The night of June 28th features “Mass in June”, a street jam that typically attracts over 5000 folks and runs to just past midnight.
3. The Day Of 29th June
4. • Church service at the historic St. John’s RC Church, kicks off the day, and a subsequent procession to the beach, accompanied by a band, to bless the boats. The day’s activities actually punctuate a week long festival.
   • Sailing boat races, tug of war, various swimming races, and an exciting day of beach activities.

5. Night of 29th June

6. • Concert with a headline act along with local performers, several major fetes or large parties, and festivities that go right through the night. Expect thousands of locals, and many tourists. The population of this little vibrant town literally explodes to almost twice it’s normal size.
   • Bars and restaurants stay open all night, and are ready to serve breakfast in the morning to guests as they leave.
   • Parking is a total nightmare for late arrivals, but the atmosphere is festive, crowded, fun, and most notably, almost always incident free.

Gouyave people, known to be loud and abrasive, actually pride themselves on their non-violent good nature and abhor outsiders bringing their town into disrepute. Any little scuffle is typically quelled by vigilant locals with the admonishing to not taint their town.

So if you happen to be in Grenada the week of June 29th, then cut your slice of the festivities and join the bandwagon as all roads lead to Gouyave Fisherman’s Birthday Bash.

No related posts.

How about our Sunshine Tours In Grenada?

Sunnyside Gardens

Sparrow our trusted tour operator from Sunshine Tours in Grenada picked us up at at about 9:45AM at my mom’s house.

In the comfort of a 5 seater air conditioned Isuzu Trooper, we headed to our first stop, on our first island tour in Grenada …Sunnyside Gardens.

Sunnyside is a true labor of love, and it was one of our favorite stops. It’s a private residence and open only to tourists, by appointment only.

Fort Frederick

10 minutes away we arrived at our next stop – Fort Frederick. It was a not on the scheduled, but since we were close I asked Sparrow if we could squeeze it in … he was more than happen to obliged. The History of Fort Frederick dates back to colonial times.

There were about two dozen tourist there when we arrived. Many of the island tours in Grenada will stop at Fort Frederick. You will have to pay a couple bucks as we did to get up to the main section to see the fabulous views of the capital St. Georges, the Carribean Sea, and the Atlantic ocean.

La Sagesse Beach and Nature Centre

We left Fort Frederick, and our Grenada tour took us to the eastern coast through Westerhall and on to La Sagesse Nature Centre. This is off the beaten path.

When we pulled up I met a couple (Paul and Laura) from Canada on their honeymoon. You can just tell they were newly weds. And they were enjoying every moment in this hidden paradise called La Sagesse.

There were about 5 or 6 other guests relaxing on the mile long La Sagesse beach, and another couple at the restaurant that’s on the beach.

This restaurant was the ideal place to have lunch, but we had already made resevations elsewhere. We did have a couple beverages at the bar. You might want to consider structuring your island tour in Grenada so you can do lunch here.

Just call in advance to make reservations. According to Jerry who runs the place, everything is local and fresh, like the seafood entree which comprise the catch of the day.

Eastern Coast

We passed several villages as we made our way north along the eastern coast. You won’t find any specific tourist attractions along the way but you will get a glimpse of the Grenada country life – farmers, small huts, goats, sheep, flowers and fruit trees. And off to your right is the beautiful blue Atlantic Ocean.

River Antoine Estate – Rivers Rum

We did not stop in the town of Grenville, on this tour. We went right on through to the home of the famous Rivers Rum at River Antoine Estate .

It’s the only distillery in the caribbean that still uses a water wheel to crush the cane. In fact the rum is called Rivers because the water wheel is powered by water from River Antoine, which flows from the scenic lake antoine.

If you like rum, then you must include this stop while on your Grenada tour. You not only get an education in rum making, but you also get to taste the final product. And that’s not all … how ’bout a couple bottles to take back with you. It’s a win, win, win!!

Morne Fendue Plantation House – Lunch Finally

By about 1:45PM we were all dieing to eat, and finally made it to Morne Fendue Plantation House for what was suppose to be our 1PM lunch reservation. Mt. Fendue is one of the famous plantation houses on the island.

We were greeted at the door by the owner Dr. Jean Thompson. She was actually about to leave for another engagement (we were 45 minutes late), but she made sure we settled in, and before she left, gave us the history of Morne Fendue.

We were attended to by two young ladies. A small buffet was prepared just for the 5 of us and we had the large dining area all to ourselves. This was a lunch with a difference. After all a British Princess, and US President were both guest of this old plantation house.

The Wind down to the great day

After lunch we spent the remainder of our Grenada island tour between Bathway Beach and Levera Beach.

Our final stop was at Concord waterfalls, after which we criused down the western coast looking at departing cruise ships, the golden sunset and the lights dotting the hills to the south of St. George’s. Our first island tour in Grenada was coming to an end.

Sparrow got us home safely at about 7PM it was a long day but well spent.

Return from Sunshine Tours In Grenada to Island Tours in Grenada

No related posts.

Lunch at Morne Fendue Plantation House

After half day of island touring we were all ready to eat, and late for our lunch appointment at Morne Fendue Plantation House in St. Patricks. Our tour guide strategically suggested Morne Fendue,knowing that by the time we got through the eastern side of the island and into St. Patricks wewould be about ready to eat. He was right.

From the time we entered the driveway to the Plantation House, I knew that this was going to be more than just a regular lunch. Morne Fendue is an 18th century stone built Plantation House that sits atop a mound.I saw many tropical flowers like bouganvilleas all around the grounds. And 360 degree views of nearby mountains, lush green hills and valleys.

We were greeted by our hostess, the owner Dr. Jean Thompson, and escorted to the dining area.

The large dining room, is some what of a museum with many historic momentos, many of them serving as reminders of the late Betty Mascoll the former owner.

Time to Eat

Lunch was served up by two pleasant young ladies. First up was calaloo soup, a local favorite. And while we enjoyed our soup, Jean entertained us with a little history about Mourne Fendue Plantation House, and its former owner Betty Mascoll.

The historical tidbits were fasinating.

• Turns out that Betty Mascoll was a recipient of the MBE award for services as a nurse during World War II.
• And that Morne Fendue Plantation House had two very high profile guests. The first was Princess Margaret who stayed at Mourne Fendue Plantation House on her visit to Grenada in the 1950’s.
• And the second was none other than the late former US President Ronald Reagan. He had lunch at Morne Fendue while visiting the troops stationed in Grenada after the 1983 US invasion.

After our histroy lesson, our hostess gracefully departed, and left us in the capable hands of our two quiet but very pleasant servers.

Ryian and Dr. Jean pose for a picture just before Jean departs. The calaloo soup definitley hit the spot, and I was ready to devourer the main course (entree). It consisted of a brown chicken stew, curried fish, steamed green bananas and plantains, Yam pie, stewed pumpkin, and rice and peas.

The meal was fabulous, everyone enjoyed everything. Well everyone that is, except my mom. She can be a difficult patron to please, and on that day she had issues with the brown chicken stew. She claimed it lacked seasoning (spice) …

She did give the thumbs up on everythng else, which was great. Because if you know my mom, you also know that if it wasn’t cooked in her kitchen, then she may take issue with it.

Desert was a frozen ice cream with slices of bananas. The perfect finish to a great meal.
Morne Fendue Plantation house is also a guest house, but we saw no one else on the compound.

Located in one of Grenada’s most remote parishes, I can see why it makes a perfect secluded getaway. You will of course need a car, to travel to the nearby Bathway Beach or Levera Beach. But don’t expect any nearby entertainment, or night life becuase you won’t find much in these parts.

Lunch cost us US$20.00 each, and off course a nice tip for our servers. If you plan on being in St. Patricks around lunch time, call ahead and make lunch reservations at Morne Fendue Plantation House. It beats all other restaurants in St. Patricks hands down.

No related posts.

Randy counts Gouyave Fish Friday and one of the favorite things to do in the lively coastal town of Gouyave. Randy lives in Texas (USA), is a regular to Grenada, and is without question a Gouyave lover … maybe because he has some roots there.

Here is his overview of the popular Gouyave Fish Friday celebrations:

The main allure of this exciting town called Gouyave is the nightlife. The most intriguing aspect is “Gouyave Fish Friday.’ Originally crafted few years ago to mimic the Anse Le Ray and Soufriere productions in St. Lucia, Gouyave Fish Friday has become one of the main attractions in Grenada for tourists and locals alike.

On a Friday night, the “back” streets of Gouyave are

• closed to traffic and adorned with entertainment, music, lights,
• over twenty vendor booths offering everything
• • from steamed fish,
  • to grilled fish,
  • to baked fish,
  • to fried fish,
  • plus all varieties of seafood done to every delight
  • served with local vegetables and side items such as roast bakes.

Fish Friday pulls in many tourists who partake of the inexpensive delights of freshly caught, never frozen, protein rich Gouyave fish. And the locals play a key role in allowing the guests the local courtesy of eating first, by choosing to arrive later in the evening primarily to sip a beverage and partake of the entertainment.

The food and festivities go until about midnight, when the action shifts further north to D’Lance, the core of Gouyave’s legendary nightlife.

Return from Randy’s Gouyave Best- Gouyave Fish Friday to Grenada Beaches Home

No related posts.

Sunnyside Gardens Grenada

Who would have thought that something so beautiful as Sunnyside Gardens Grenada can remain a hidden treasure all this time?

Located only 15 minutes from the town of St. George Sunnyside Gardens is a labor of love. Even my mom who knows the area quite well, having grown up only 5 minutes from Sunnyside Gardens was shocked that such a beautiful well cared garden existed here for for so many years.

I visited Sunnyside Gardens Grenada on one of my island tours while vacationing for Christmas 2005. It was the first stop on our tour, and one of the most enjoyable.

Sunnyside Gardens Grenada is located right off the St. Paul’s main road, just before the Laborie junction. That’s a short 20 minutes ride from the hotel district in Grand Anse, and so it easily accessible … well kind of easy.

I say kind of easy because Sunnyside gardesns is not open to the general public. In fact the garden is really part of the private residence of its caretaker.

So how do you get to see the wonderful world at Sunnyside gardens Grenada? Well you simply do what we did. Make reservation through one of the Grenada tour operators.

No sooner you pull off the main road into the narrow dirveway, colors abound everywhere. While our driver was off fetching Jean the owner, I siezed the opporutinty to get aquainted with the many varities of hibiscus that were everywhere. A sampling of the many hibiscus flowers at Sunnyside Gardens Grenada

My moment with the hibiscus was interrupted by the sound of an unfamiliar female voice. I lifted my head to see a woman walking briskly down the path towards us. She was wearing a red T-shirt, cream trousers, and matching hat, and what looked like black galoshes … there was no question in my mind that this is the person responsible for the incredible beauty around us.

Here are Mia, Jean and Ryian (from left to right) posing for a picture. In the the distant background is the Caribbean sea.

After the introductions, Jean took us on a tour through her Sunnyside Gardens that lasted about 40 minutes.

There is a story behind every different plant, tree and flower … like: Where they came from, Their nicknames, Their healing properties…

Enjoy these selected shots from Sunnyside Gardens Grenada … hopefully they can satisfying you until your visit

Sunnyside Gardens suffered significant damages during hurricane Ivan. But to be honest I was so impressed with the all the beauty, and varsity that it was hard to imagine this place being even more spectacular in times past.

Jean is really an interesting woman with lots of energy, and a good sense of humor. When you chat with her it’s easy to understand why Sunnyside Gardens was so quickly back in glory (while others weren’t). Be sure to have her give you the stories about the early post Ivan days, and how she and the family saved the Garden.

Our delightful little tour cost us US$40 total …. it was well worth it and for the four of us an experience we will always cherish.In the immortal words of The Terminator … I’ll be Back

No related posts.