Bordered by historic, Sir Francis Drake Channel, Tortola has a rich history of fishing, farming, sailing, pirates and privateers.

To navigate this mountainous terrain, drivers have a choice of two main roads, one following the mountain ridges and the other the coast with many smaller "tributaries" spilling off of these. The spectacular Ridge Road, with breathtaking views, follows the centre spine of the island, a mountainous area sloping off to Tortola's north shore known for its white sandy beaches and great surfing sites, such as Josiah's Bay, Apple Bay and Cane Garden Bay. The coastal road snakes along the outer perimeter of the southern shore connecting charming rural communities from the east and west ends of the island with Road Town in the centre.

Road Town is home to the beautiful J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens which wind through close to three acres of indigenous and exotic plants, trees and herbs. The capital is also brimming with restaurants, shops, and is the site for the hospital, government administration offices and official Governor's House with its historical museum. Just behind Waterfront Drive is Main Street, a peep into the B.V.I'.s architectural past, which still has many historic buildings and churches, charming cafes, and curio shops as well as the Virgin Islands Folk Museum.