Sunset over Tortola © Graeme Maccallum

Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands and one of the least glitzy and most traditional islands in the Caribbean. A mountain range down its centre lends drama to the landscape and ensures any road journey is both scenic and time consuming.
Tortola was historically a pirates nest, and the surrounding coves and waters were ruled by the flag of the skull and crossbones. Today the island is a popular cruise stop with the result that its relatively few attractions can get overrun with visitors during busy periods. First sighted by Columbus in 1443, Tortola became a British colony, evidenced in part by the charming Red Royal Mail post boxes still in use today.
Calm sees and clean waters make for excellent diving and snorkeling conditions, and have helped to make Tortola one of the main yachting centres in the world.
Ships dock at Road Harbour, from where passengers can easily walk into town.

Contact

British Virgin Islands Tourist Board

Second floor AKARA Building, central Road Town

Tel: +284 494 3134
www.bvitourism.com

Transport

The town of Road Harbour is a short walk away from the disembarkation pier and can be easily explored on foot. To explore further afield hire a taxi ($20 to the furthest point on the island). Numerous car rental companies are available. To visit any of the other islands, or Soper's Hole (West End) and Beef Island (East End) on Tortola, catch a ferry from the port.

Attractions

Cane Garden and Brewer's Bay are beautiful beaches, close to town, but can get very crowded. Long Bay and Apple Bay are also worth a visit. The Botanic Gardens are full of tropical plants like ginger, heliconias, and anthuriums; and if you have the energy don't miss a hike up Sage Mountain, the highest peak in the British Virgin Islands.

Restaurants

Mrs. Scatliffe's - superb West Indian food served on mama's terrace

The Dove - no view, but great food and it's where the locals eat

Brandywine - amazing views meets creative cuisine in this local favourite

Best Dish

linefish and a classic Painkiller cocktail (national drink of the BVI)

Shopping

The Crafts Alive Marketplace on the Waterfront sells local arts and crafts, while Sunny Caribbee is a shop with a wonderful range of interesting merchandise. Soper's Hole at the West End has a range of shops catering to visitors.

Best Buy

A bottle of Pusser's Rum and/or Arawak Love Potion and Hangover Cure

Excursions

Swim with dolphins with Dolphin Discovery

Explore the maze of boulders at The Baths

Visit Marina Cay on the eastern tip of Tortola

Take a stroll in Queen Elizabeth II National Park and let the kids play at the playground