A dependency of Grenada, considerably smaller Carriacou slips under the radar of mass tourism and retains its slow Caribbean vibe. It is often touted as the safest, friendliest and healthiest of all the Caribbean islands and certainly comes packed with attractive qualities that make it one of the most worthwhile stops in the Lesser Antilles archipelago. The name derives from the Carib language Kayryouacou, and means “isle of reefs”, and therefore unsurprisingly it is a popular spot for diving enthusiasts who delight in the pristine reefs and marine life.
Of equal repute are the protected mangroves found principally along the northern coastline. Ecologically rich, they are both a nursery ground for marine life and a birder’s hotspot. Exploring these wetland systems on foot or by kayak is a great way to look for waders like the Willet and Green Heron, as well as some of the more colourful passerines like the Bananaquit and if you are lucky, low croaking notes will reveal the secretive perch of the shy Mangrove Cuckoo.
Similarly fascinating is Carriacou’s culture, heavily influenced by the West African slaves brought here by the English and French and evident in celebratory dances like the “Big Drum”, which is performed at every village festival around the island.
We had a half-day road trip designed to highlight the island's historic points and beauty. We disembarked from the pier for a twenty-minute drive to Belair, passing through the capital, Hillsborough, and the town of Beausejour. We stopped at the scenic overlook located at the Princess Royal Hospital and took in the view of Hillsborough with Sandy Island in the background, looki,g over the dependencies of Grenada (Petite Martinique) and St. Vincent (Union Island, Bequia, Palm Beach Island, Mayreau, Canouan and Petit St. Vincent) stretcheing across the blue waters. Next, we continued the drive through Belvedere and Dover and on into Windward., this the home of the traditional wooden boat building industry. We left Windward for the drive to Bogles and on to the Botanical Gardens where there are lovely tropical plant and flower specimens.: but closed due to Covid!! Then back to Hillsborough
Click on any thumbnail photo and get a larger photo
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |