Over 6,000 islets make up the Grenadines’ island chain in the Caribbean, with each one just as beautiful as the next. All of the islands come surrounded by a halo of white beaches and waters covering the full spectrum of colours from blue to green and beyond. Once on the ground though, the contrast between the islets is much wider and we definitely recommend you island hop around a few to get a true taste for the Grenadines. Of the main islands, here are a few that stand out…
1.Mustique
Mustique may be less frequentedby rock stars and royals these days, but the island still feels exceptionally exclusive. Apart from Basil’s Bar, where Wednesday is the big night, there is little to do but throw parties and hit the beach. Rent a house owned by Tommy Hilfiger or Mick Jagger, or stay at the 20-room Cotton House.
2. Bequia
On Bequia (pronounced ‘Beck Wee’) you’ll get a real feel for locallife, whether eating rotis orsipping a rum punchby the beach. Bequia also has three stunningbeaches (Princess Margaret, Lower Bay and Friendship), great diving, boat trips and coastalwalks. Stay at the Bequia Beach Hotel, overlooking Friendship Beach.
3. Canouan
Afabulousisland with protected beaches where Irish billionaire Dermot Desmond, the man behind Sandy Lane in Barbados, is creating the Pink Sands Club. With an award-wining Jim Fazio golf course, a choice of four restaurants and agorgeousspa, it promises to be one of the most exclusive hotelsin the Caribbean.
4. Tobago Cays
This archipelago of islets, protected by reefs, is very Crusoe and has got to be one of the best nature spots in the whole of the Caribbean. There’s nowhere to stay unless you’re on a boat, so be sure to find the time for a day’s excursion from whichever of the Grenadines you choose as a base.
5. Petit Saint Vincent
Petit Saint Vincent is an idyllic hideaway. With just 22 cottages spread across over 100acres, this is the perfectchoice for honeymooners, and there’s plenty ofbeach for everyone to get their own patch. Cottages don’t havetelephones or televisions, to summon room service you have to raise a yellow flagon your doorstep!
6. Palm Island
Just10 minutes by boat from the airstrip on Union Island, Palm’s resort has only43 rooms spread overits 135 acres. There’s plenty of room to keep you active whilst tucked away from the hustle of the world -there are tennis courts, a nine hole pitch and putt, swimming pool, small gym and watersports.
7. Young Island
Just 200 yards off the southern coast of St Vincent, Johnny Depp and team stayed here whilst filming Pirates of the Caribbean. The resort is the perfect option for flopping on the beach, or take advantage of thedive centre and a couple of the yachts. Young Island is a greatbase for exploring the natural wonders of St Vincent’s, such as the botanic gardens and Falls of Baleine.
St Lucia and Barbados are the best gateways to the Grenadines, with connecting scheduled and shared private-charter flights available.
