Situated about one hundred miles
west of Barbados, and nestled
between St Lucia to the north and
Grenada to the south, the string of
islands known collectively as
St
Vincent and the Grenadines may
be physically close together, but
vary enormously in character,
terrain and appeal.
The main centre of activity is St
Vincent , the largest and
northernmost of the islands. As well
as exploring St Vincent's two
distinct coastlines - the rugged
windward side and the gentle leeward
side - and lush, interior hiking
trails, don't miss the opportunity
to spend time on the tiny isle of
Bequia, just a short ferry ride
away, a yachters' haven that also
boasts shimmering beaches and a
fascinating seafaring history. The
less developed and less populated
islands of Canouan, Mayreau
and Union are all easily
reachable by ferry and offer a taste
of the unspoiled Caribbean, while Mustique
, an island hideaway of the rich and
famous, makes for an affordable day
trip of swimming and snorkelling,
though don't expect to find a cheap
place to stay.
The uninhabited national park of
the Tobago Cays , a cluster
of islets which form the eastern
point of a triangle between Union
Island and Mayreau, are surrounded
by coral reefs and unbelievably
aquamarine waters and make an
excellent excursion from nearby
islands.
