This expansive nutmeg garden is the home and source of a variety of nutmeg products made by the company De La Grenade. As Grenada is famous for its spice exports, particularly nutmeg, the gardens give visitors the chance to experience the heart of the “Isle of Spice.” Here, learn about the historical, traditional, and medicinal uses of spices and other local plants.
The highlight of the experience is an aromatic walk through the herb and spice gardens, which spans over two acres. Walk over nutmeg shells, enjoying the aroma of local fruit trees, flowering plants, and of course, nutmeg. Visitors can sample De La Grenade’s many beverage concentrates, syrups, jams, and housemade La Grenade liqueur. The processing area grants behind-the-scenes insight into how these products are created and then shipped all over the world. There are also various homegrown fruits and spices—all native to the area—for tasting and purchase.
- The garden paths are covered in nutmeg shells, which can be tricky for visitors using wheelchairs.
- Catch views of Mount Gozeau Tropical Forest Reserve, which is located opposite the factory.
- Nutmeg trees bear fruit year round, but the main harvests take place in March and April, and October and November.
De La Grenade is located in the suburb of St. Paul’s, which borders St. George’s parish to the east; the garden is adjacent to De La Grenade Industries. The garden is about a 7-minute drive from the cruise ship terminal, and is about a 25-minute drive from Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport.
Overall, January to April is considered the best time to visit Grenada because it’s the driest period. Typically, you’ll encounter the most tourists when the cruise ships are docked. But De La Grenade is slightly off the beaten path, so you probably won’t compete with too many crowds. Also keep in mind that the nutmeg garden is closed on the weekends.
For those interested in more nutmeg products and knowledge, head to Gouyave Nutmeg Station, located in Gouyave, a Grenadine fishing village. This factory produces three million pounds of the spice each year, and offers guided tours of the production process. Watch how the nutmeg fruit is picked and processed, sorted, and packed for shipping.
