Granada is a beautiful city with plenty to do whatever
your interests. Located on the shore of Lake Cocibolca and
watched over by Mombacho Volcano, Granada was founded by Francisco
Fernandez de Córdoba in 1524, making it arguably the
oldest colonial city on the American mainland, and has played
an important role in Nicaraguan history ever since.
Despite numerous raids by pirates as well as being burnt
to the ground by the North American filibuster William Walker
Granada still retains much of its colonial charm, with many
of the old buildings being renovated once again. A walk around
the centre of Granada shows not only the multicoloured exteriors
of the houses but also gives you the chance to peek inside
and get glimpses of peaceful courtyards and patios filled
with plants.
The city centre itself is small enough to walk around and
it is easy to visit the churches, parks and museums that the
city has to offer (See Things
to do in Town.) If you get tired or just need to escape
the heat for a while there are plenty of cafes and bars where
you can take a break and relax. (See Eating
and Drinking.) Whilst in the city you will find that the
people of Granada are very friendly and will give you lots
of opportunities to practice the Spanish that you are learning.
Granada also makes the ideal base to explore from. The volcanoes
of Mombacho and Masaya are easily reached for an afternoon
or day trip either by public transport or on a tour. Other
nearby possibilities include Los Pueblos Blancos - several
small picturesque towns many of which specialise in certain
types of artesanía - Masaya, with it's famous market
- great for souvenir shopping! - and the Laguna de Apoyo -
a beautiful crater lake where you can swim in crystal clear
water or even go diving. (See Things
to do Nearby - for further information and ideas.)
For trips further afield you can easily visit the island
of Ometepe, either direct by boat from Granada, or via Rivas
and the port of San Jorge. The pacific coast beaches, such
as San Juan del Sur, are also easily reached from Granada.
For the more adventurous there is a boat that leaves twice
a week for San Carlos from where you can explore the Rio San
Juan or the Solentiname islands. |
