Adventure in Grenada

Cruising the coast

Hit the beach!

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Still a fledgling sport in Grenada, mountain biking is now beginning to take off — and why not? The shade of Grenada's lush vegetation allows riders to beat the heat, and the island's volcanic terrain (last active in 1867) makes for some fast downhills and challenging climbs. Although you're not allowed to pedal Grand Etang trails, there's plenty of good riding to be had.

Cruise past the stone ruins of an old sugar mill. Zip between overhanging trees (a nice bit of shade to balance the tropical clime). Pull up to the edge of a cliff on the Atlantic coast, the rough surf crashing hard on the rocks — and on you, if you're not careful. As you fly down grassy trails, keep an eye out for unwary livestock — sometimes goats and cows rest by the side of the road, and sometimes they rest in the middle of it. Intermediate bikers can enjoy the speed of the general terrain without a thought of braking or a hint of fear, and more advanced bikers will find enough technical stretches to challenge their skills. As a bonus for all your hard biking, take a water break alongside the many fruit trees lining the trails. Suck on pulpy, sweet soursop, crunch into a golden apple, nosh on raw almonds, or pluck a ripe, juicy mango. Just the smell of spices — nutmeg, vanilla, mace, cinnamon, cloves — will whet your appetite.

All along the coast you'll find great photo opportunities, with rocks carved by the pounding of Atlantic breakers and trees bent by tradewinds forever blowing out of the northeast. Pack your fins, mask, and snorkel for a quick saltwater dip, or rent a beachside cottage for a bike-friendly base camp: Rise with the sun, dive into the ocean for a wake-up swim, and then hit the trails.

Bike rentals, self-guided tours, and guided tours are all available on both Grenada and Carriacou from various outfitters. On Grenada, check out Trailblazers (473-444-5337; www.grenadajeeptours.com/trailblazers.html).