About Tortola

Land of Turtle Doves as it is called is the largest of the British Virgin Islands. RoadTown –the capital has a scenic harbor which is usually filled with yachts. Cuisine in Tortola is excellent with many choices, with such dishes as fresh lobster, conch, turtle etc. Shoppers will find bargains in perfume, jewellery and Wedgewood china as well as many local products such as silk screened fabrics. The rest of the BVI are in easy reach should you wish to explore further.

Tortola is a quiet unspoilt paradise with much natural beauty.Beautiful sandy beaches abound and there is an area of original rain forest at Mount Sage National Park. Road Town ( the capital) is a haven for many yachts. Tortola can also be used for a jumping off point for visiting some of the other BVI for instance Virgin Gourda. Tortola is known as the “Land of Turtles Doves”.

Beach related activities are popular. The Botanic Gardens in Road Town are well worth a visit, as well as an expedition to the Mount Sage National Park. Museums, old forts and sugar mills provide an insight into Tortola’s past. Trips by ferry to some of the other BVI is another opportunity to explore further. Shopping in Road Town can be an exciting experience with offerings from Tortolan craftsman or duty free shopping for such delights as perfume,jewellery and Wedgewood china.

Tortola is a part of the British Virgin Islands and is governed by a British appointed leader.The first inhabitants of the island were the Ciboney and later the Arawaks and Caribs. In 1493 Columbus discovered the islands and named them after the ll,000 virgins of St.Ursula. Famous pirates like Bluebeard and Capt.Kidd were involved in the plunder of Spanish galleons –in fact Tortola has a romantic history of it’s own. Sugar production dominated the island until the 1800’s.