Tortola

Twenty-one-square-mile Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands, an unspoiled archipelago that lies in the path of welcome trade winds. Try fishing, snorkeling and sailing excursions out of Road Towns serene harbor or horseback riding in the shadow of Mount Sage.

Attractions

Rent a private boat and forge your way out to Norman Isle, a former pirate den across Drake Channel from Tortola and real life deserted island today. Legend has it that Norman Isle served as Robert Louis Stevenson's inspiration for Treasure Island. You can venture into caves, some of which are excellent snorkeling spots. Or hike to Spy Glass Hill. This is a journey you'll never forget.

Activities

• Sage Mountain National Park is located over 1700 ft. above sea level, and contains the British Virgin Islands' highest peak.


• Trails lead through a primeval rainforest overlooking neighboring islets.


• The wreck of the HMS Rhone is a 310-foot ship that sank in 1867 near Salt Island. Its remains have become a fascinating underwater habitat for marine life and it is known as a premier dive spot in the Caribbean.
• Get the party started with a visit to Bomba's Shack at Cappoon's Bay. Live entertainment, rum punch and infamous full moon parties.

Adventures

• Go on a diving excursion to Alice in Wonderland, a brilliant, rainbow colored coral wall that's home to a stunning array of sea life.
• Tackle Tortola's steep mountain roads that guarantee a mind-blowing rush, even for hard core biking enthusiasts.

Shopping

Check out the Crafts Alive Marketplace for batiks and other souvenirs. If you want to bring home some of that Caribbean flavor visit Caribbee Herb and Spice Company. There are plenty of exotic choices here from spices, hot sauces, and coffees to a hangover cure and love potion.

Food

The locals are fans of rotis, the West Indian version of a burrito. Other West Indian specialties include conch, turtle, lobster and curries. Dare to sip sea grape wine; the grapes are soaked in alcohol for years before being made into wine. For dessert try a delectable coconut tart.

Currency

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency.

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