TRAVEL | POSTCARD FROM
ST VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
POSTCARD FROM ST VINCENT & THE GRENDINES
A nation of 32 islands and cays in the southern Caribbean, St Vincent and the Grenadines is made for island hopping. Whether you explore under sail or from a land base, every type of tropical attraction – from towering volcanoes and dense rainforests to pristine beaches and private islands – is within reach.
Words by Natasha Were.
CHARTER a yacht (with or without crew) to experience the diversity of this multi-island nation. Enjoy exhilarating sailing between the islands – some uninhabited, some home to exclusive resorts, others offering a taste of traditional island life – stopping in sheltered anchorages overnight and exploring above and below the water by day.
HIKE through St Vincent’s forested interior, where volcanic soil has given rise to lush vegetation. A favourite is the climb to Dark View Falls, where two tiers of waterfalls cascade down a cliff face. Crossing the bamboo bridge to reach them is an extra thrill, and a dip in the cool bathing pools is a welcome reward.
DINE on casual local fare at Wallilabou Anchorage, a small hotel on the north west coast of St Vincent. Movie buffs will recognise the pretty bay and black sand beach as the setting for ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. The set built around the hotel and restaurant has been preserved, and visitors can even don a pirate costume for a unique Instagram shot.
PLAY a round of golf at the Canouan Estate, one of the Caribbean’s top courses on tiny Canouan Island. The 18-hole championship golf course rewards players with exhilarating vistas of bays, beaches, and surrounding islands while challenging them with steep slopes and stiff sea breezes. Don’t miss out on a sundowner at the 13th hole.
SNORKEL in some of the clearest waters of the Caribbean Sea at Tobago Cays. The horseshoe reef surrounding this cluster of deserted islands is a protected marine park, and the sheltered powder blue waters harbour thriving reefs. Round off a day of aquatic exploration with a beach barbecue on one of the uninhabited islets.
SIP a sundowner at Basil’s Bar, the legendary watering hole on exclusive Mustique. The island is a playground for celebrities and A-listers, and the bar, with its sensational sea views, potent rum cocktails, and a chic re-design by Philippe Starck, is an unbeatable spot for people-watching.
STAY at the enchanting Firefly Estate on Bequia. Surrounded by 20-acres of manicured grounds and fruit orchards, this boutique hotel oozes traditional charm with sweeping views down to the shore. While away the days poolside, tour the estate and sea salt making facilities or play a round of cross-country golf – the emphasis here is on slowing down and savouring the moment.