Carriacou, Grenada

Carriacou, part of the Grenadines chain, belongs to the multi-island nation of Grenada. Early colonial records suggest the name was derived from the Kalinago word for “land surrounded by reefs.” A hilly, rural island of villages, it is an off-the-beaten-track destination with fantastic snorkeling. Hillsborough is the main town, close to scenic west coast spots like Paradise Beach and the pretty anchorage at Tyrell Bay. The town’s Carriacou Museum is an introduction to the history and heritage that shape the vibrant local culture. African drums, music and dance are an important part of weddings, boat launchings, tombstone feasts and many festivals. Carriacou’s famously raucous Carnival includes the Pierrot, or Shakespeare Mas, a costumed battle of wits using the bard’s verses. Carriacou also has a long tradition of boat building, using techniques first introduced by Scots who settled here after Britain took control from France in 1783.