Road Town

Named after the island's shape resembling a curvy woman, Virgin Gorda is home to one of the most popular tourist attractions in the British Virgin Islands. The large granite boulders scattered on the beach are not only spectacular, but also form pools and grottoes for the enjoyment of visitors of all ages.

With over two hundred years in operation, the Callwood Rum Distillery is one of the oldest establishments in the British Virgin Islands, located in the stunning — and aptly named — Cane Garden Bay. Visitors are offered the chance to get an insight into rum production, and to buy a bottle of the widely renowned Arundel.

A popular time to visit the British Virgin Islands is during the annual Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, which has been attracting vast crowds of sailing enthusiasts since 1972. Set your own sail or explore the offerings of many a charter company, and get to know the Caribbean from a whole new perspective.

J.R. O'Neal Botanical Gardens is a small, serene oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Road Town, located about 2 km from the cruise terminal. Despite the damage caused by Hurricane Irma, the gardens are still a delightful and well-maintained attraction filled with lush tropical vegetation. The collection of tropical plants represents different habitats of the BVI, such as the rainforest and coastal environments, in addition to exotic species and an extensive collection of palms. Visitors can enjoy a greenhouse for orchids, a lily pond, a gazebo of orchids, and a scenic pergola. The nursery at the gardens plays a crucial role in preserving endangered species of flora found within the BVI.

This secluded beach is the best option for a quick dip outside Road Town. Located only a half an hour's drive from the city across Sage Mountain National Park, Smuggle's Cove guarantees not only a peaceful time but also excellent conditions for snorkelling.

Tourists tend to flock to Virgin Gorda for its beauty, Anegada for the lobster and Jost Van Dyke for the vibrant bar scene — crowds will be thinner in Cooper Island, but it does not mean it is any less worthy of dropping anchor. Boasting pristine beaches, excellent diving conditions with a 'wreck alley' to explore, a solar-powered brewery, and many more, Cooper Island is the perfect place for a quiet recharge away from the hustle of Road Town.