One of my favourite BVI islands. Still under going slow development, with great beaches and a relaxed atmosphere
The dramatically shaped island of Virgin Gorda
reminded Christopher Columbus of a reclining woman, so he
named it Virgin Gorda, the "Fat Virgin." The third largest
island of the BVI, Virgin Gorda measures eight and a half
square miles.
In addition to the sheer beauty of the island, travellers are drawn to Virgin Gorda for its yacht clubs, quiet coves, safe anchorages, and luxury resorts. On the North Sound, the Bitter End Yacht Club, accessible only by water, offers relaxation in an extraordinary, secluded environment. And with its spectacular setting, Little Dix Bay Resort, designed by Laurance S. Rockefeller, has its own spectacular setting.
Your privacy is ensured at one of Virgin
Gorda's deserted pristine beaches, such as Savannah Bay,
Pond Bay, Devil's Bay, Mahoe Bay and Spring Bay. Or visit
the most popular natural attraction in the BVI, The Baths,
where huge granite boulders create mysterious grottoes,
saltwater pools, and a connecting trail that entices
visitors to spend a day exploring, swimming, and snorkeling.
Explore Virgin Gorda on the rugged trails that run
throughout the island, and see the huge variety of unique
indigenous plants that thrive in the National Parks at Gorda
Peak, Devil's Bay, Spring Bay, and the North Sound. At the
nature sanctuary at Little Fort National Park, marvel at the
exotic birds as they swoop over the hills and ocean.
Not surprisingly, Virgin Gorda has been luring people for centuries. Discover the island's African and Indian heritage; trace its Spanish history at the ruins at Little Fort National Park; observe the British influence in Spanish Town and at the Cornish Copper Mines on the island's southwestern tip, where ruins stand sentinel against the azure sea. Experience the island's exquisite cuisine, a wonderful combination of all its influences, and explore the variety of shops offering local arts and crafts, as well as gifts, resort wear, and souvenirs. There are a wide variety of places to stay, ranging from campgrounds to luxury resorts and private villas.
Virgin Gorda can also be
experienced on a day trip. Spanish Town has its own airport,
and a regular
ferry runs between Road Town, Tortola, and Spanish
Town. Another ferry takes passengers from Trellis Bay on
Beef Island to Leverick Bay, the Bitter End Yacht Club and
Biras Creek.
Activities on Virgin Gorda:
- snorkeling
- hiking
- sightseeing
- sunbathing
- bird watching
- dining
- scuba diving
- shopping
- picnicking