Attractions
on the Island of Virgin Gorda
Third
in size to Tortola and Anegada, lies the island of Virgin Gorda. Virgin
Gorda, or "Fat Virgin", refers to a protruding mountain noted
by Columbus. Virgin Gorda has a population of about 3,000 and is around
8.5 square miles in area (only ten miles long and two miles wide), and
the surrounding islands are no bigger than a square mile each. The island
is known for its yacht clubs, quiet coves, and safe anchorages for bareboats
and is a favorite stop-over for both yachtsmen and land lovers.
Its
northern side is mountainous, with a peak reaching 1,370 feet (418m),
and the southern half is flat with large boulders appearing at every
turn. Nature lovers can enjoy a short stroll from The Baths to the Devil's
Bay National Park, one of several parks given by the Rockefellers to
the British Virgin Islands' government in the 1960s.
On
the west and southern end of the island is Spanish Town, once the capital
of the B.V.I. in colonial times, now a quaint town with shops and restaurants
and a bustling marina.
North
Sound has protected anchorages, lovely resorts, and makes a wonderful
base to explore nearby islands.
Virgin
Gorda is easily accessed by ferries that run regularly between Road
Town and Spanish Town and has its own airport. Another ferry runs from
Beef Island, Tortola to North Sound. This ferry takes passengers to
Leverick Bay, Bitter End and Biras Creek. Ferries to Virgin Gorda from
Tortola allow bicycles at no extra cost although bicycles can be rented
at Nanny Cay, by the day. Virgin Gorda also houses a small airport.
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Little
Fort National Park
Located south of the Yacht Harbour, it was the site of a Spanish fort
whose stone walls are still partially intact. This 36-acre area also
functions as a wildlife sanctuary.
The
Coppermine
On the southwest tip of the island, it was mined by Cornish miners between
1838 and 1867, and perhaps even earlier by the Spanish. Today, the remains
of the chimney, boiler house, cistern, and mine shafts can be seen.
Gorda
Peak National Park
This park contains a wide variety of indigenous and exotic plants and
has been reforested with mahogany trees. At 1,500 feet, it is the islands
highest point.
The
Baths
Giant boulders form a series of spectacular pools and grottoes flooded
with sea water. Thousands of years ago, huge granite boulders were strewn
around by volcanic activity and now form small picturesque grottos and
pools on the beach's edge, tempting visitors to spend hours exploring
and snorkeling. An entire day can be spent here wandering through the
gigantic boulders and wading through the pools. A passage through the
Baths is made easy as steps and ropes strategically placed now lend
assistance to those that may find the trek more difficult. A refreshment
bar and souvenir stand are available on the beach. At the top of the
trail is the long standing Mad Dog Restaurant. A series of clothing
and souvenir shops pave the way to yet another restaurant appropriately
named "Top of the Baths".
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