With little desire for mass tourism, Virgin Gorda has remained an escape from the bustle associated with so many Caribbean islands. With her miles of serene and almost isolated beaches, Virgin Gorda provides a peaceful haven.

We can reach virgin Gorda by boat or ferry. We can observe the tall north western ridge area, which comprises Gorda Peak National Park (1,370 feet). It is easy from this vantage point to envision, the "plump damsel" reclining on her back. This is an island with many natural attractions, the most famous of these is The Baths - an area on the southern tip with giant boulders forming spectacular sea pools and grottoes. A favourite of snorkellers and sailors alike, it is now incorporated as a National Park, along with two exquisite white sand beaches, Devil's Bay and Spring Bay spanning either side of the boulders with a trail connecting both.

Spanish Town is the main business and financial centre and is flanked by Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, a major port for ferries and visiting yachts. The harbour has an array of gift and clothing shops, banks, provisioning markets and outdoor cafes. From here one can wind up a hill on a historical adventure and reach a landmark known as the Copper Mine. Early settlers from Cornwall, England set up a copper mining industry that flourished in the 1800s. The mine closed in 1862 but the ruins including the engine house and chimney are still visible and have been set up as a national park.

The northern reach of the island known as "the North Sound" is accessible by boat only. Here flanked by the smaller islands - Mosquito, Prickly Pear, Eustatia, Necker and tiny Saba Rock, are some of the islands' finest resorts and restaurants. This area is a Mecca for water sports whether it be windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing or the more extreme sport of kiteboarding - there is a little something for everybody. Ferries from Gun Creek run to all the major resorts.