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Interesting Facts
- Temperatures in Tortola maintain a steady base at about 29°C (84°F) during summer months and 25°C (77°F) during winter months. These figures ensure year-round pleasant temperatures, making visits enjoyable despite what's printed on the calendar. Rainfall varies, but most of it comes between the months of September and December. Hurricane season lasts from June to October.
- At an elevation of 1710 feet, Sage Mountain National Park is the highest point on Tortola. It's a natural beauty that spans 92 acres and includes hiking trails and a wealth of island flora and fauna.
- Affectionately known as "the small town with the big heart," Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands. Located on the southern shore of Tortola, it got its name from the nautical meaning of the word "Road," which means a safe place for dropping anchor. The capital city boasts Crafts Alive, an open-air bazaar, the J. R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens, the historic Government House and a host of hotels, restaurants and bars.
- Tortola ranks as the BVI's largest island, spanning 10 square miles. It has a total population of just over 20,000, and its name is Spanish for Turtle Dove.
- Tortola has a number of historic sites and old ruins, including the military outpost of Fort Recovery that dates to the mid-1600s; Fort George that was built by the British in the late 18th century and named after King George III; and Mount Healthy Windmill, constructed of local rocks, coral and ship's ballast.
- Soper's Hole, on Tortola's West End, was once the home of the notorious English pirate Edward Teach, more commonly known as Blackbeard. He lived there between 1715 and 1718.
- Beach bumming is a huge attraction for guests visiting Tortola. And it's no wonder, with the wide selection of beautiful beaches available, from Apple Bay to Cane Garden Bay to Long Bay, which boasts the longest stretch of beach on the island (over one kilometer in length).
- Although laid back and casual, islands of the BVI are still serious about business. Tortola, with the capital of the islands, Road Town, in its midst has at least 500,000 companies on the financial Register. Relatively recent legislation in the late '80s and early 2000s has further advanced the reputation of the BVI as an international financial center.
- In need of a Painkiller? Island style, that is? Then order one up at one of the island beach bars that proudly serve up this soothingly delicious combination of Pusser's Rum, fruit juices and coconut cream.
- The balmy breezes, crystal clear waters and laid-back atmosphere of the islands have inspired famous singer/songwriters Jimmy Buffet and Kenny Chesney. Buffet wrote "Cheeseburger in Paradise" after visiting Cane Garden Bay in Tortola, and Chesney's music video titled "No Shoes, No Shirts, No Problems" was generated by a visit to an island bar on nearby Jost Van Dyke.
