If you’re a Virgin Gorda virgin, then fear not, you’re very much in company. However this pocket of paradise is predicted to be one of the hottest holiday destinations in the coming years, with china white sands and ecological intrigue for as far as the eye can see. Boasting a population of approximately 3,000, and a welcoming, inclusive vibe. Room for a couple more, then? Most certainly, yes.
Home to some wonderful natural attractions, including The Baths, which is actually a boulder-strewn beach, and the famed Gorda Peak as well as an abundance of Virgin Gorda beach homes ready to welcome you to your piece of paradise, now is the time to consider popping your tropical island cherry.
And now is perhaps the best time to make a conscious choice to visit here. Indeed, after hurricane Irma, the tourism sector in the Virgin Islands took a big hit, and while these Caribbean islands are open for business, the recovery effort is still ongoing and the injection of tourist dollars will help benefit the local economy in terms of infrastructure and people’s livelihoods. So, here are 8 IDEAL places to visit in Virgin Gorda.
THE BATHS
This is undoubtedly the best-known and most reputed landmark in Virgin Gorda, and arguably one of the most impressive land features in the entire Virgin archipelago. The Baths are situated on the north shore of the island and consist of enormous granite boulders (some nearly 50 feet) leaning precariously against each other. This dramatic formation creates a seaside labyrinth, forming many sheltered sea pools along the beach that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and exploring. Come here early in the morning to avoid the crowds. If the hordes later on get too much for you, a quick walk down a well trodden path will take you to quieter beaches such as Spring Bay.
YACHT HARBOR
Speaking of The Baths, you can get there by water taxi from Yacht Harbor. This marina in the city of Spanish Town is the center of commerce and activity on the island and where you’ll find the territory’s loyal yachting community loading up on supplies. The marina complex has dozens of shops including a scuba diving store, an art gallery and if you love perusing foreign supermarkets while you’re on holiday, stop at the famous Buck’s Market. It’s the best place to buy provisions for your holiday and you’ll find lots of local rum and other delicacies here. Alongside the shops, you’ll find The Bath and Turtle Restaurant which has a lovely outdoor area if you’re after a bite to eat and one of those infamous nutmeg dusted cocktails – you’re on holiday after all.
SAVANNAH BAY
When you think of the Caribbean does your mind start to imagine talcum powder soft sand and crystal clear waters where tranquility and serenity prevails? Then you’re imagining Savannah Bay – a huge stretch of white powered sand and idyllic waters. Indeed, this beach is the very epitome of our fantasises of paradise and is one of the most attractive beaches in the Virgin Islands. When you visit, make it a point to see the beach from the overlook above so you can really appreciate it’s beauty. Oh and bring your suntan lotion and water with you as there isn’t much shade here.
GORDA PEAK NATIONAL PARK
The highest point on the island is the Gorda Peak, which ascends to a height of 1,370 feet above the sea level. In fact, it is not very difficult to take the 30-minute hike however, it would be wise to bring plenty of drinking water as well as walking shoes so as to make the journey more comfortable. Upon reaching the top, you can capture the panoramic views of the whole area, particularly the anchorage at North Sound.
COPPER MINE
Inside the national park you’ll find the ruins of an old copper mine from the 1800s. Every vacation should involve learning a bit of history about the region you’re visiting, and Virgin Gorda’s Copper Mine is a beautiful place to do just that. The best thing about this place is that it is situated on the cliffs located at the south-eastern tip of Virgin Gorda where you can take in the sweeping panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and tree-covered islands.
CARIBBEAN RESTAURANTS
All the eateries and bars on the Island exude all that laid-back Caribbean charm of holiday fantasy. While some of the islands much-loved restaurants remain closed for the time being, you’re still spoilt for choice when it comes to experiencing Caribbean cuisine.
Located above that wondrous geological formation, Top of The Baths is ideal and offers a magnificent view of the boulders and the sea alongside delicacies like conch in butter sauce, tostones and all types of fritters.
The Sugar Apple, which has been named by concierge.com as one of the most romantic restaurants in the world, serves up local dishes like johnny cakes, stewed brown chicken, pea soup with pig tails and dumplings, and of course, saltfish. The restaurant, which Caribbean cook Cynthia George started at the tender age of 63, is often sold out by early lunchtime, so get there early or book in advance.
Another favourite is Hog Heaven, an open-air hilltop terrace overlooking Necker Island dishing up big portions of barbequed pork with plantain. While it’s a bit of a trek to the restaurant, the excursion and exertion is worth it as the view there is something else.
BEACHFRONT BARS
You’re in the Caribbean and it would be rude not to get sloshed on rum cocktails at some point. While the beloved Bitter Yacht club remains closed, Jumbies beach bar on Leverick Bay remains open for business. Beach chic Coco Maya is awesome too, and as you’ll find out, their cocktails are best enjoyed lounging on the outdoor couches positioned by the fire pit. Heaven.
Apparent must-try cocktail concoctions, both of which are infamously strong and served in a tropical curvy glass include the aforementioned infamous nutmeg dusted cocktail – The Painkiller (orange juice, pineapple, coconut and rum) and the sickly sweet Bushwacker (Coco, Lopez, Baileys, Kahlua, Amaretto and Vodka). However, as far as we’re concerned you can’t go wrong with rum punch.
VIRGIN GORDA BEACH VILLAS
If you’re planning on going to the Caribbean then the only place to stay (unless you’re yachting) is a beachfront villa where you can be cocooned in your own little island paradise. While many places, especially on North Sound, suffered some of Irma’s most devastating destruction, there are plenty of beach houses in Virgin Gorda still trading. We think Cheemaun Beach Villa in Oil Nut Bay is absolutely stunning. Each villa boasts more than 3,000 square feet of luxurious living space which can host as many as 8 individuals. By day you can relax next to your own private pool and by night the gentle soundtrack of the lapping sea will send you to sleep. Bliss.