Native to Grenada, Sir Royston Hopkin has made many contributions to the hospitality industry over the years and is passionate about showcasing the island’s highlights and hidden gems. Here are his four recommended adventures for all guests looking for an authentic Grenadian experience…
Champagne, lobsters and underwater sculptures
Often referred to as the Wreck Dive Capital of the Eastern Caribbean, Grenada’s clear turquoise waters are abundant with wildlife from rare loggerhead sea turtles to seahorses and manta rays.For a snorkelling surprise, head to Molinere Bay, a Marine Protected Area where you’ll find an underwater gallery of sculptures designed by sculptor, Jason deCaires Taylor.
Local cruise specialist,Shadowfaxorganises luxury sailing tours to explore the underwater world whilst indulging in champagne and local gourmet specialities. Think traditional Grenadian fish broth and local lobster at Robinson Crusoe-esque Hog Island…
Meet monkeys and cocoa workers with local expert, Mandoo Seales
In addition to its exotic rainforests and Caribbean wildlife including the rare Mona Monkey, endemic Grenada Dove and the Grenada Hookbilled Kite, Grenada is known for its home-grown spices such as nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon and saffron, and has also earned itself a reputation for quality cocoa production.
Local tour guideMandoo Seales, knows everything there is to know about Grenada, and offers specialised full day tours of the island to discover its delights. Itineraries include tours of the Grand Etang National Park and Concord Falls, as well as visits to the Gouyave Nutmeg Station and the Belmont Estate to see the local cocoa farmers busy at work.
Take a tour of Grenada’s Gardens
With its exotic plants and vivacious vegetation adorned with scented spices, Grenada is rightfully recognised for its beautiful gardens and this year, the island was proudly awarded Gold at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for its vibrant rainforest exhibition.
Experience the sights first-hand and take a full day tour of Grenada’s favourite gardens, from the organic farm and charming springs atJessamine Gardensto the delightful variety of palms, cycads, heliconias, bougainvillea and other tropical plants atHyde Park.
Work for your rum and discover the art of ‘Hashing’
Grenada offers a fantastic terrain of trails through exotic rainforests and along white-sand beaches. It is also known for its local rum and is home to an array of authentic bars and three rum producing companies, all offering tours and tastings.The River Antoine Rum Distillery is definitely worth a visit; it dates back to 1785 and is the oldest functioning water-propelled rum distillery in the Caribbean.
The traditional activity ofHashingembraces both running and rum tasting, whereby a ‘pack’ of runners follow a trail of flour or shredded paper laid down by the leader, named the ‘hare’, who guides groups to some of the most attractive parts of the island. The activity starts and ends at a local rum shop with the chance to sample some of the island’s best rums at local rum shop. Suitable for all fitness levels and abilities,participants canrun or walk at their own pace. If the trail ahead looks too challenging, they can turn back and follow the trail back to the rum shop.
Find out more about Sir Royston and Spice Island Beach Resort here|www.spiceislandbeachresort.com
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