Granada and Las Isletas

Built by the Spanish in the 16th century, its history is rich in colonisation, piracy and revolution. The drama of these events is visible in the city’s very foundations. Architecture is grand, imposing and delightfully colourful. Its inhabitants are equally charming.

Spend two nights in Granada exploring by horse and cart, visiting the abandoned railway, its art galleries and factories producing rum, chocolate and cigars. Take a moment to sit under the palms in the Parque Central with a refreshing lemongrass juice, a plate of yuca and a vigorón salad.

Away from the city, Las Isletas are a group of 365 volcanic islands scattered off the Peninsula de Aseses on Lake Nicaragua. Formed by the explosion of Mombacha volcano in 1570, some of these tiny islands have been home to local fishermen and their families for generations.