Granada’s Spanish colonial character and local geniality are reason enough to consider Nicaragua as your next travel destination. Snug yet proud, Granada sits on the northern edge of the vast freshwater of Lake Nicaragua, watched over by the cloud-forest-crowned Mombacho volcano and the towering twin peak volcanoes of Ometepe Island. The volcanism of this lush, tropical biome has formed 365 islands and islets, supports a flourish of flora and fauna and is a perfect spot for adventure, relaxation and discovery.
One of the oldest Spanish cities in Latin America, Granada lives up to its name, the Colonial Jewel. Explore the old town starting from the main pedestrian zone of Calle La Calzada, which extends from the Parque Central to the lake. Stay at the Hotel Plaza Colon near the cathedral for luxury comfort, or wander further afield from the central park for clean and quaint, inexpensive guesthouse options, locally known as hostals. Granada is a great base from which to plan trips on the lake and islets, Mombacho volcano hikes, and Ometepe Island.
The islets of Lake Nicaragua, or Cocibolca, are mostly uninhabited, though a handful of fishing village outposts, private estates and ecolodges exist. Try the Jicaro Island Ecolodge or Morgan’s Rock for peaceful islet luxury. Find all manner of islet boat tours in Granada, which usually include the Isletas, San Pablo Fortress and Monkey Island. Intrepid travelers should speak to Nica locals at the harbor for insider trips. Rent a kayak most anywhere, or go kite-boarding and wind-surfing. Fast ferries depart regularly from Granada to Ometepe Island.
Go totally off the tourist grid by heading to Zapatera Island south of Granada. A national park, the island is quite untouched, and the sole village of Sonzapote is without electricity. Only for the adventurous, getting there can be difficult, and can be done only by boat. Go hiking in search of archaeological remains, or fish and bird watch, but bring food and water. If you find a tour from Granada, be sure to agree on length and details of the trip beforehand.
The awe-inspiring view of the twin peak volcanoes Concepcion and Maderas looms large as you approach Ometepe Island. Ferryboats dock at the tranquil town of Moyogalpa, loaded with options for accommodations, restaurants and shops. Stay a little longer to explore other sleepy villages, reserves and beaches on the isthmus-joined islands. Hike to the 5,282-foot Concepcion volcano, still active and often shrouded in clouds, or Maderas, rising to 4,573 feet and topped by a crater lagoon. The forested mountainsides, mangrove beaches, waterfalls and panoramas from above make Ometepe unforgettable.
