Virgin Gorda, the third-largest island in the British Virgin Islands, offers several distinct natural highlights: the island’s highest point, views of beaches and national park areas, and the mineral-rich surroundings of the ruins of Copper Mine Point. The interplay of views, hiking trails and geology gives the island a clear theme.

Gorda Peak: The Highest Point and Hiking Trails

At 1,370 feet, Gorda Peak is the highest point on Virgin Gorda. Hiking trails at Gorda Peak lead to an observation tower; a picnic area is located where the eastern and western trails meet. This gives you two distinct landmarks: the observation tower is a destination along the trails, while the picnic area marks the point where the east and west trails converge. Virgin Gorda also has vegetation-lined trails and several nature reserves. This broadens the focus from the specific observation tower to the wider natural setting of trails and protected areas.

Views and Minerals

From Gorda Point, you can look out over Virgin Gorda’s beaches and national park areas. The ruins of Copper Mine Point offer a different perspective: they are surrounded by granite rocks and deposits of quartz, feldspars, tin, copper and other minerals. On the island, you can take in views of beaches and national park areas, as well as a landscape whose notable features include granite and minerals. Those interested in geology will find a distinct way to explore the island alongside its viewpoints.

Devil’s Bay and the British Virgin Islands

Within the wider setting of the British Virgin Islands, Devil’s Bay is located at the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda. From the tip of The Baths, the bay can be reached via a hike of about 15 minutes. The bay’s beaches are suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The focus here is therefore different from that of the hiking trails at Gorda Peak: swimming and snorkeling on the bay’s beaches.

You can also explore the islands of the British Virgin Islands on an island-hopping trip by ferry, chartered yacht or sailboat. This adds a regional perspective on the destination to the experiences on Virgin Gorda.

Getting Your Bearings and Planning Your Trip

Spanish Town is the largest town on Virgin Gorda. As you plan your trip, you can weigh the island’s different highlights: hiking trails and nature reserves, viewpoints, the mineral-rich surroundings of Copper Mine Point, or the bay and its opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. If you’re looking for a vacation rental, you can start by considering which of these discoveries you want to shape the character of your trip. That way, your search begins with what you want to experience on Virgin Gorda rather than with a general idea of the island.

Discover more destinations: Tortola, Other Islands.

View the main travel overview: British Virgin Islands.