Tortola, a mountainous island of 62-sq.-km, is the largest of the British Virgin Islands.
THE CITY
Road Town, located on the south coast of Tortola island, is the capital of the British Virgin Islands. Comprising the Government House, it is the administrative nucleus of the islands. A 70 acre area called Wickham Bay was the reason for the tourist development.
ATTRACTIONS
It is the attractions that make Tortola a paradise. The gardens, the reefs, the beaches they all make a beautiful package wrapped up in a wonderful glow.
Cane Garden Bay is set on the northern side in a lovely bay that attracts tourists with the wide range of activities it offers.
Apple Bay Beach is just over the hill from Long Bay. Here, on any day in season you can see surfers from all over the world. The bay is also known for its full moon parties at Bomba's Surfside Shack.
Long Bay is a mile-long making it perfect for long walks. A resort and several guest houses line the eastern portion of the beach. The western end offers greater solitude.
Brewer's Bay is just around the eastern point of Cane Garden Bay.
Josiah's Bay Beach on Tortola's East End has a long and wide swath of sand that makes it ideal for sunbathing. Swimming is dangerous especially off season and when the waves are high as there are no lifeguards.
In the western part you will find Smugglers Cove, a place that is difficult to get to, a pristine location favored by those who want total privacy. There is no paved road but people can get here on foot. Many who practice snorkeling come here.
J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens host a cactus garden, indigenous and exotic tropical plants. These gardens are frequented by tourists who relax and take photos against the splendid backdrops available in the gardens.
Sage Mountain National Park is a must see while you are in Tortola. The elevation of the Park reaches 1,751 feet. It is the home of some forest species associated with rain forest. You can get there following the two major trails: the Mahogany Forest Trail and the Rainforest Trail. Visitors can also enjoy this wonderful park on horse back. They only have to rent a horse from Shadow's Ranch.
NIGHTLIFE
If you are interested to see where you can spend a quality time during the nights spent on this island, then go to Bomba's Surfside Shack. Situated on the beach, the poor appearance of the shack is in contrast with the hi- sound equipment. At parties you can hear live music especially on Sunday and Wednesday nights and have a special drink, more exactly a tea made out of hallucinogenic mushrooms.
