Upon arriving in Grenada visitors are enticed by the gentle aroma of spices that linger in the air. Abundant with cinnamon, vanilla, clove, ginger, allspice, cocoa, sugar and nutmeg, Grenada is the "Spice Island" of the Caribbean. Of all the wonderful spices available on the island, nutmeg is the most revered; it is featured on the Island’s flag and is its primary export.

Nutmeg arrived in Grenada around 1843, brought in by British spice traders who had carried it over from the Dutch East Indies. At the time spice theft was commonplace, professionals hired by various colonial interest would go in to the East Indies and steal hundreds of trees and thousands of seeds in hopes of starting their own monopoly. The warm climate and rich soil of Grenada rewarded those who had made the arduous journey with the coveted seed. The crop took to the Island environment so well that when endemic struck the Dutch East Indies, Grenada was able to step up as a new major supplier. In 1881 alone, Grenada exported over 100,000 pounds of nutmeg.

In Grenada, the whole nutmeg is employed in a variety of ways. The apricot colored fruit is used to create syrups, jams, jellies and liqueurs. The bright red, lace-like mace that surrounds the seed is dried to add flavor to many savory dishes, while the shell protecting the seed is crushed for surface pathways and mulch. Nutmeg had many uses throughout history and across the world. In the 16th century, it was believed to possess properties that prevented and cured the plague. In Asia, nutmeg was believed to be a potent aphrodisiac, while in Europe it was kept in snuffboxes to add flavor to a snifter.

Nutmeg is the star player in much of Grenada's one-of-a-kind cuisine. The warm woody flavor has been added to soups, stews, vegetables, sauces, cakes and ice cream to add island flare to traditional favorites. Visitors to Grenada can indulge in a variety of unique nutmeg products seldom seen off the Island, including; nutmeg cheese, jam, coffee and even nutmeg-flavored liqueur, rum and wine.

Culinary and history enthusiasts can enjoy a tour of Grenada’s many spice estates and see first hand how nutmeg, sugar, cocoa and rum are produced. Visitors can also explore the River Antoine Rum Distillery, whose processes have changed little since the 1800’s and is the oldest functioning water-propelled distillery in the Caribbean.

As the 'Spice Island' of the Caribbean Grenada offers visitors a multi-faceted flavor experience. From the delicate aroma of vanilla and nutmeg and one-of-a-kind dishes, to the spice inspired resorts and historical monuments, Grenada will inspire your palette and spice up your senses. For more information, visit www.grenadagrenadines.com

back to top

Intimate and charming, the AAA Four Diamond Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada is the quintessential Caribbean paradise and one of the finest resorts in the region. Located on the smooth sand shores of Grand Anse Beach, the inclusive Spice Island Beach Resort offers its guest’s luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, impeccable facilities and outstanding service.

Noted Grenadian Sir Royston O. Hopkin KCMG – Chairman & Managing Director founded Spice over 35 years ago. He envisioned a resort that combined a classic style with the appeal of nature, a luxury establishment that embraced the spirit of its spectacular environment and the people who visited. Today, people from all around the world flock to this family-run property to enjoy the magnificent view of the sparkling Caribbean Sea and the gracious hospitality of a top-class Grenadian oasis.

Spice Island Beach Resort delivers a Caribbean vacation experience with an unmatched level of accommodations and unprecedented brand of chic style and timeless luxury. The resort features 64 elegantly-appointed suites, the full-service Janissa’s Spa, a Cybex® fitness centre, an open-air, beachside gourmet restaurant, the Sea & Surf Bar for refreshing cocktails throughout the day, a central swimming pool with swim-up whirlpool, an Omnicourt® tennis court, the Nutmeg Pod children’s activity centre, the Gatsby Boutique...and the option to do everything or nothing at all.

Spice Island Beach Resort is a luxurious testament to Grenada's gracious island hospitality and spirit. For more information, visit www.spiceislandbeachresort.com

back to top

From Friday December 15th to Sunday December 17th 2006, Grenada’s sister island Carriacou will be celebrating its 29th annual Parang Festival. This vivid music celebration is an exciting climax to the Grenada festival season.

On Friday, festivities begin with a free open-air concert through the street of Hillsborough including carol singing, Parang string bands, and unique cultural celebrations. Saturday night is filled with performers and entertainers from around the world, such as the Quadrille and Big Drum Nation Dancers.

Parang groups from all over Carriacou and Grenada gather to compete for the challenge trophy and cash prizes. Each group must perform a compulsory Christmas Carol as well as a piece of their choosing. The evening is closed with a visit from Santa Claus and the distribution of awards to the winning Parangers.

The Parang Festival is a celebratory musical festival that will fill your heart with the joy of the season. For more information on the 29th Annual Carriacou Parang Festival, visit www.grenadagrenadines.com

back to top