By Ian Wood - for Home:World

Granada is a showcase for Nicaraguan history and a prototype for the country's future as a destination for tourists and foreign investors.

In 1524 Francisco de Cordoba was searching for a passage through the Americas when he discovered a river now known as the Rio San Juan. It led him to a lake so large and with such and abundance of natural resources that he knew it would be the site of the first colony in the New World. Since then, Granada has been one of Nicaragua's richest cities, a political center and the site of some of its bloodiest battles.

Today, Granada is the must-see city in Nicaragua. It is populated by a mix of locals, foreign entrepreneurs and retirees. There respect for the history of Granada is obvious. Every effort is made to update the city, while maintaining its colonial beauty.

Hotels

Hotel Alhambra - This colonial classic has the ultimate location, residing on Granada's central park. Owned and operated by one of Granada's oldest families, the rooms in this landmark are a bit dated, but the hotel features a swimming pool and a bar/restaurant with an unbeatable view of the park

Hotel Colonial - Located just 20 meters North West of the central park, this hotel is one of the most modern in Granada. While maintaining its colonial facade, once inside you will have every comfort expected in an upscale North American or European Hotel, including a bilingual staff and poolside bar.

Bearded Monkey - A 10 minute walk from the central park, the Bearded Monkey is a low cost alternative to hotels closer to the park. Rooms without air conditioning are available for the budget conscious and people who arrive late with no reservations.

Restaurants and Clubs

El Zaquan - Arguably one of the best restaurants in Nicaragua, El Zaquan is a top choice for meat eaters. Their chef cooks on and open grill inside the dining room. You might walk right by El Zaquan without noticing its understated front door, but once you've found it you will never forget where to get the best steaks in Nicaragua.

Nacho Mama's - This Mexican restaurant has the feel of a European bistro with its outdoor tables overlooking the plaza. While you're there, order a coffee in a souvenir Che Guevara ceramic mug.

El Club - El Club is one of Granada's best hang outs. El club serves up super-premium cocktails and delicious treats in a distinctly European atmosphere. Depending on the night and the crowd, the owners might play house, pop, or Latin music.

Health

There are 2 hospitals in the vicinity of Granada. Bernadino Diaz Ocha Hospital and Hospital Privado Cocibolca are just outside of the city on the highway to Managua. Managua is less than an hour away and offers even more options. You will also find that in Granada, as in every other city in Nicaragua, there are pharmacies all over town.

Activities

Granada's central park is one of the highlights of Nicaragua. The colonial square has been recently restored and features a beautiful fountain, gazebo and ficus trees. The grand architecture surrounding the park will give you a glimpse of Nicaraguan life as it was hundreds of years ago. There are even horse-drawn carriages ready to trot you around town.

Mombacho Volcano is one of the most scenic places in Nicaragua. Its 1345 meter peak rises well above the clouds and offers and incredible view. The cloud forest is a protected natural reserve with old growth tree, ferns and orchids. The lush foliage is home to exotic birds, reptiles and monkeys. If you feel inspired to swing from the trees, Mombacho offers the best canopy tours in Nicaragua.

Over 20,000 years ago Mombacho Volcano erupted, throwing huge rocks into Lake Nicaragua. When the eruption ended, a chain of 365 islands was left in the lake. Today they are known as Las Isletas. At the port in Granada you can hire a boat for a tour of the island chain. The islands are a community, some have homes, one has a school for the local children, and another has a church. If you like the island lifestyle enough, you can even buy one and build your own private island retreat. How's that for a dream life?

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