Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/471511
In the heart of the northeastern Caribbean, an archipelago of 60 islands, cays and islets rises sleepily out of where the Caribbean Sea melts into the Atlantic Ocean. One of the world's greatest sailing destinations, regattas and chartered sailboats, along with cruisers who fall just as in love with the scenic journey as the destination, make their ways to ports once frequented by pirates. Tortola, the largest of the chain, woos visitors with dramatic mountain peaks, hidden caves and sheltered coves. Smuggler's Cove, Long Bay, Cane Garden Bay, Lambert's Beach—the beaches of the northern coast are romantic and renowned, but the view of picturesque boats, bobbing in the distance, is just as famous. Snorkelers drop off their decks to meet the sea fans, sponges, parrotfish, elkhorn and other marine life that make the waters that inspired Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island home. Meanwhile, Virgin Gorda wows with steep, green slopes that tumble down to deserted beaches and remarkable geological formations. Home to The Baths—a haunt for discerning travelers—the yacht clubs, quiet coves, luxury resorts and villas provide a multitude of options for an upscale retreat. Privacy is fiercely guarded and respected in this "wilderness beach," as dubbed by Laurence Rockefeller, making it the ultimate place to lose not just yourself, but the busy world you're leaving behind. J O S T VA N DY K E Great Tobago Guana Island Great Camanoe Scrub Island Beef Island V I R G I N G O R D A Ginger Island Cooper Island Peter Island Norman Island Great Thatch Island Road Town Carrot Bay West End East End Brewers Bay Fort Shirley Spanish Town Virgin Gorda Peak S T. J O H N ( U S V I ) Great Harbour Fat Hogs Bay White Bay Handsome Bay Pond Bay South Sound A T L A N T I C O C E A N Beef Island International Airport T O R T O L A S i r F r a nci s D r a k e Channel 0 2 miles 0 2 km British Virgin Islands 35 4 3 2 1 5 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS