Virgin Gorda | Spectacular British Virgin Island
Virgin Gorda is the second-largest island in the BVI. It was named Virgin Gorda, “Fat Virgin,” by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World in 1493. To him, the island looked like a reclining woman.
Weather on Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda is tropically hot throughout the year. Because of trade winds, it is most pleasant from December to March, when the daily average temperature is around 77 °F. The hottest and most humid period is from May to October when the average is around 82 °F.
Virgin Gorda | Things to See and Do
Visit The Baths
Enjoy the most well-known attraction on the island, “The Baths,” a beach lined with giant boulders. Spend your day snorkeling through the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Bask in the sun on the pristine beaches that dot the coastline.
Stroll Spanish Town
Visit Spanish Town, where you’ll find lots of shopping and relaxed eateries. Have a relaxing massage at A Touch of the Caribbean Spa.
Hike
Visit a national park or two. First, spend a day at Gorda Peak National Park. Hike to the island’s high point, Gorda Peak, and you’ll have a fantastic view of the surrounding islands. In addition, you’ll find a trail network leading to scenic views from the island’s highest peak.
Next, go to Little Fort National Park. You’ll find this hidden gem amongst the enormous boulders at Fort Point, between Spanish Town and Big Trunk Bay.
Hit the Beach on Virgin Gorda
Walk or swim at Virgin Gorda’s unspoiled beaches: Savannah Bay, Pond Bay, Devil’s Bay, Mahoe Bay, or Spring Bay.
Explore History
Explore history at the Cornish Copper Mines. The Copper Mine ruins include remnants of mining infrastructure such as tunnels, shafts, and smelting furnaces. These archaeological remains offer insight into the island’s mining heritage.
Try SNUBA
Get a feel for diving at BVI SNUBA in Leverick Bay. SNUBA is a snorkeling/scuba hybrid. Led by experienced guides, participants of all levels can safely dive up to 20 feet. Enjoy the calm waters teeming with marine life, including tropical fish and colorful coral reefs.
Gastronomy on Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Caribbean flavors, fresh seafood, and international influences. Here’s a glimpse into the culinary delights that await in this tropical paradise:
Fresh Seafood
Given the BVI’s abundant marine life, seafood features prominently in local cuisine. From succulent lobster and shrimp to snapper and mahi-mahi, savor an array of freshly caught delights.
Conch, a type of mollusk abundant in the Caribbean waters, is a staple ingredient in many BVI dishes. Conch fritters, chowder, and cracked conch are popular preparations showcasing the island’s culinary diversity.
Caribbean Spices and Flavors
Caribbean cuisine is famous for its bold and vibrant flavors. Dishes often incorporate a variety of spices, such as jerk seasoning, allspice, nutmeg, and thyme. Meals have a combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements.
West Indian Roti
Influenced by Indian cuisine, West Indian roti is a beloved dish in the BVI. This flavorful meal consists of a flatbread stuffed with a variety of fillings. The fillings include curried vegetables, chicken, goat, savory sauces, and chutneys.
Bushwackers
No visit to the BVI is complete without indulging in a Bushwacker, a popular cocktail synonymous with the islands. This creamy combines rum, Kahlua, coconut cream, and chocolate syrup, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Rum Culture
As the birthplace of the famous Pusser’s Rum, the BVI boasts a rich rum culture that permeates its culinary scene. Sample a wide range of rum-based cocktails, including the iconic Painkiller. This classic drink is a concoction of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut garnished with grated nutmeg.
Virgin Gorda Marinas
The Marina at Oil Nut Bay. This state-of-the-art Marina has 93 berths that are in the natural harbor of Deep Bay. The secure alongside mooring can accommodate yachts up to 130 feet and a draft of up to 8 feet.
Berths are privately owned by Oil Nut Bay homeowners and are also available for nightly reservations. Mooring balls are available in Deep Bay. Oil Nut Bay highly discourages anchoring in Deep Bay and Eustatia Sound to protect the delicate marine environment.
Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor: 93 slips for yachts with up to 140′ LOA and 9′ draft. Amenities include complimentary trash removal with dockage, ice, diesel and gasoline, water, and electricity. Hourly, overnight, weekly, or long-term dockage is available.
Leverick Bay Resort & Marina: 36 moorings and slips with 110 and 220-volt electricity. Facilities include water, power, ice, fuel, a pool, and showers. In addition, there’s a grocery store, bar and restaurant, retail shopping, SNUBA, boat rentals, and accommodations.
