| Virgin Gorda |
Virgin Gorda is the third-largest (after Tortola and Anegada) and second most populous of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Located at approximately 18 degrees, 48 minutes North, and 64 degrees, 30 minutes West, it covers an area of about 8 square miles (21 km²).
Christopher Columbus is said to have named the island "The Fat Virgin", because its silhouette resembles a rotund woman lying on her back.
The main town is Spanish Town on the southwestern part of the island.
An unusual geologic formation known as "The Baths" located on the southern end of the island makes Virgin Gorda one of the BVI's major tourist destinations.
At The Baths, the beach shows evidence of the island's volcanic origins, as huge granite boulders lie in piles on the beach, forming scenic grottoes that are open to the sea. North of the Baths is the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor, formerly owned Little Dix Bay.
The most notable ruin on Virgin Gorda is the old Copper Mine.
Virgin Gorda is also the site of one of the British Virgin Island's most famous attractions, known as The Baths. Gigantic boulders lie strewn along the island's spectacular beaches forming picturesque tidal pools and magical grottos that invite hours of exploration, swimming and snorkelling. The fascinating rock formations were caused by volcanic activity thousands of years ago and today are the most visited natural wonder in the region. Virgin Gorda attracts visitors from neighbouring islands and The Baths are best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
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| Geography |
Its coastline fractured with hundreds of bays and inlets, Virgin Gorda, third largest of the British Virgin Islands, is a haven for 'yachties' and holidaymakers, providing private, safe anchorages and secluded pristine beaches.
Christopher Columbus was responsible for the name of the isle, which means 'Fat Virgin', because its shape reminded him of a reclining woman with a distended stomach.
The heavy belly is the island's central high point, known as Gorda Peak, from which lush indigenous vegetation criss-crossed with numerous trails spreads down to the coast and the azure sea.
Virgin Gorda, just less than nine square miles (23 sq km) in area, development is strictly controlled. The island's resorts are luxurious and discreet. |
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| Map of Virgin Gorda |
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