Windward Village | Carriacou

Windward Village – Carriacou’s Traditional Boatbuilding Hub

Windward Village, located on the northeastern coast of Carriacou, is one of the island’s most historic and culturally rich communities. Known as the heart of Carriacou’s boatbuilding tradition, this charming fishing village has a strong connection to Scottish heritage and African ancestry, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Grenada’s sister island.

General Information

• Location: Northeastern Carriacou, Grenada.
• Best for: Cultural exploration, boatbuilding, history, and scenic views.
• Famous for: Handcrafted wooden boats, Scottish and African heritage, and traditional fishing.
• Vibe: Quiet, traditional, and deeply cultural.

Things to Do in Windward Village

1. Witness Traditional Wooden Boatbuilding

• Windward Village is famous for its master craftsmen, who build handmade wooden boats using traditional methods passed down for generations.
• These boats, known as Carriacou sloops, are crafted without blueprints, using skills and techniques dating back to the Scottish settlers of the 18th century.
• You can visit the local boatyards to watch builders at work, shaping and assembling these beautiful sailing vessels.

2. Experience the Annual Carriacou Regatta

• If you visit in August, you can witness the Carriacou Regatta, where Windward-built boats compete in thrilling sailing races.
• The regatta, first held in 1965, is a celebration of Carriacou’s maritime history, featuring boat races, cultural performances, and lively festivities.
• This is the best time to see Windward’s craftsmanship in action on the open sea.

3. Explore Windward’s Scottish and African Heritage

• Windward Village has a unique mix of Scottish and African influences, dating back to the early settlers who worked in fishing and boatbuilding.
• Many families in the village can trace their roots to Scottish shipwrights and African laborers, giving Windward a distinct cultural identity.
• Some locals still speak in a unique dialect, blending Caribbean and Scottish linguistic influences.

4. Enjoy Stunning Coastal Views

• The village is located along Carriacou’s windward coast, providing spectacular views of Petite Martinique, the Grenadine islands, and the Atlantic Ocean.
• The rugged coastline and traditional fishing boats make for excellent photography and sightseeing opportunities.

5. Visit Local Fishing Communities

• Fishing is a way of life in Windward Village, and you can watch fishermen preparing their nets, mending boats, or bringing in fresh catches.
• If you’re lucky, you may even be invited to buy fresh seafood directly from the fishermen or taste locally made saltfish and fried breadfruit.

Why Visit Windward Village?

• Authentic Cultural Experience: One of the last places in the Caribbean where traditional boatbuilding is still practiced.
• Rich History: Learn about the Scottish and African influences that shaped Carriacou’s past.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unlike the island’s tourist beaches, Windward Village offers a local, untouched feel.
• Incredible Scenic Views: The village overlooks Petite Martinique and the surrounding Grenadine islands.

How to Get There

• By Car: A 15-minute drive from Hillsborough, the main town of Carriacou.
• By Bus: Local minibuses travel from Hillsborough to Windward.
• By Boat: If you’re exploring Carriacou by boat, you can dock near the shore and walk through the village.

Tips for Visiting Windward Village

• Be Respectful: Windward is a traditional community, so be mindful when taking photos or entering boatyards.
• Visit During the Regatta: If possible, plan your visit around the Carriacou Regatta in August.
• Talk to the Locals: Many boatbuilders are happy to share stories about their craft if you show interest.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The village has dirt roads and coastal paths, so good footwear is recommended.

Conclusion

Windward Village is a hidden cultural gem in Carriacou, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s boatbuilding heritage, Scottish-African history, and fishing traditions. Whether you come to see traditional wooden sloops being built, explore the coastal scenery, or experience the regatta, this authentic Caribbean village is a must-visit for anyone looking to discover the true heart of Carriacou.