The Parish of Saint Patrick is one of Grenada’s really beautiful parishes. Like the quintessential Caribbean destination, the town’s coastline is magnificently adorned with fine bays. Aside from being the island’s most northerly Parish, Saint Patrick is also close to volcanic cones and craters, giving it a remarkable landscape. Some of the popular volcanic formations include Lake Antoine and Punchbowl. St. Patrick Parish is also home to most of the island’s cocoa and nutmeg production.
Sauteurs is the biggest town and the capital of the parish. Just north of this town lies the historic Leapers Hill or Carib’s Leap. This is the steep cliff where 40 Carib Indians leaped into the sea to kill themselves rather than face a life being conquered by the French colonizers in 1651. The act was truly valiant and tragic at the same time and is remembered even after the passing of centuries. These days, visiting Leaper Hill also gives you the chance to see a model Kalinago/Carib village. There is also an interpretation center that allows you to view artifacts and purchase indigenous crafts and local snacks.
For a refreshing swim, Grenada’s gorgeous coastline is definitely the place to be! But if you want to indulge in a therapeutic bath that soothes your body aches and calms your mind, then head out to the sulphur springs of Saint Patrick. There are more than 5 natural sulphur springs to choose from, specifically located at River Sallee. One great thing about this place is that you can come here any time as it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is even a bar set up here to sell refreshments, just in case you get hungry after soaking in the lovely warm water for hours!
One attraction that offers tourists not only a valuable piece of Grenada’s history but is also a genuinely a wonderful experience is the River Antoine Rum Distillery. Rum has been known to be the alcohol of choice in the Caribbean; and this private distillery’s rum making tradition goes all the way back to the 1800s. Thus, it is not surprising that it is one of the oldest functioning distilleries in the entire Caribbean.
One of the bargains here is a guided tour around this distillery, especially because it costs only EC$5 (about $2 USD). The tour gives you a comprehensive look at the rum-making process, which starts from the harvesting of the sugar cane. You will also get to know the fermentation process as well witness how workers bottle the finished product. At the end of this fascinating tour, you will also be treated to a free sample.
But take note that the rum produced at River Antoine Rum Distillery is unlike the rum products you usually see in supermarkets and duty-free shops. River Antoine’s rum is distinctively much stronger. To give you an idea, the rum here is produced in strengths of 120 to 150 proof. Fortunately, the distillery also makes less potent versions for visitors to purchase and take home when then leave.
River Antoine Rum Distillery lies close to Lake Antoine, on the northeast coast of Grenada Island. It is just around an hour’s drive from St. George. Tours are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The tour is well worth the visit.
