Saint George

St. George's is the capital of Grenada and the gateway to an island widely known as the "Isle of Spice." Built around a horseshoe-shaped natural harbour on the southwest coast, it is often described as one of the most picturesque harbour towns in the Caribbean, with colourful buildings rising above the waterfront in the pattern that gives it the nickname "Rainbow City."

The city's history reflects both French and British rule. Founded by the French as Fort Royal in 1650, it was later renamed St. George's and developed around the deep inner harbour known as the Carenage. Fort George, begun by the French and completed by the British in the 18th century, still overlooks the harbour, while Fort Frederick on Richmond Hill offers broad views of the town and coast. The narrow Sendall Tunnel, opened in 1895, links the waterfront with the eastern side of the city.

The historic centre rewards walking, from the Carenage's waterfront promenade and Georgian buildings to the stalls of Market Square, which fills with spices, produce and crafts on Saturdays. The Grenada National Museum, housed in an 18th-century barracks and prison, tells the island's story, and landmarks such as St. George's Anglican Church and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception add to the city's layered character.

Beyond the old town, Grand Anse Beach lies a short drive to the south, and attractions including Grand Etang National Park, Annandale Falls and the Molinière Underwater Sculpture Park are easy day trips. As Grenada's administrative and commercial centre, St. George's is also the main cruise port, with a busy harbour serving yachts, ferries and cargo alongside government offices and businesses.

For leisure and business travellers alike, St. George's works as a compact, friendly base for exploring Grenada. Its spice heritage, sailing and diving, beaches, festivals such as Spicemas in August, and growing reputation as a Caribbean yachting destination make the capital relevant well beyond its small size.