The Virgin Gorda of the British Virgin Islands

Written by Julie Greiner

The better known of the British Virgin Islands and in many ways one of the more interesting islands. The Spaniards once named the island "fat virgin" believing it resembled a pregnant woman lying down. This description of the island is best viewed from a yacht anchored off the south shore.

The Baths of Virgin Gorda

Just off shore there is a huge rock formation known as The Baths. All throughout the Virgin Islands one is much aware of the ragged shore lines of the islands forming secluded bays. One of the best charms of the islands is the romantic atmosphere that the white beaches engulfed in coveys are perfect for private swims. Worn smooth by time, the gigantic boulders of The Baths, some the size of houses, are scattered about the beach as though some giant goddess scattered them with her toe as she strolled alo o create many caverns and paths. The sea splashing up against and between the rocks and white sanded shore create individual pools perfect for private bathing.

Virgin Gorda Peak Park

This Park is formed in the center of the "belly" of the woman. Most everything above 1,000 feet is considered a national park in the British Virgin Islands. The resorts that have been built on the island are in keeping with the protective ecology and environment of the setting. There is a hiking trail that leads you to the point of observation, atop the 265-acre forested park. The lookout is at the end of a paved road.

Devil's Bay National Park

This Park is south of The Baths and is a secluded coral sand beach. The vegetation all around the island includes trees such as turpentine, white cedar, frangipani and pitche apple. The islands are being studied as possible protected areas for nesting seabirds. South of Virgin Gora is the island of Fallen Jerusalem. This island is comprised of 30 acres of huge boulders and much a bird sanctuary. A noted nesting sanctuary for the likes of pearly-eyed thrasher, red-billed and white-tailed tropicbirds, brown boobies, noddies, terns, brown pelicans and laughing gulls.

Navigation around these islands, so perfect for snorkeling and nature indulgence, is by private or chartered boat. For a truly secluded honeymoon, feeling close to nature and the beauty of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands are unequaled by any other destination.