We're not just sea and sand. The BVI has some lovely trails too!
Of course a trip on board the Cuan Law will offer some of the best diving, snorkeling and sailing in the world, but did you know the BVI also boasts a wonderful variety of scenic walks and trails? Our four main islands: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost van Dyke. The outer islands: Cooper, Peter and Norman Island, all have some intriguing hidden treasures. All you'll need to discover them for yourself is a stout pair of walking shoes and a little time away from the water. We are delighted to be able to recommend a wonderful new guide book, "Trails & Tales", authored by Mr Ron Beard – an old friend of Annie and Duncan's – who was Town & Country Planner for the territory for some years and is intimately familiar with all the nooks and crannies of the BVI.
The BVI are a small group, so you won't need days to enjoy glimpses of the old Caribbean - an hour or two will do it, and the effort will be well rewarded. Starting with the most remote and northerly point in the archipelago, the sandy limestone island of Anegada, with its gentle elevation of just 28ft, is very unlike the rest of the rocky and volcanic BVI. A haven for bird life and the indigenous iguanas, Anegada also has expansive salt ponds where the distinctive Caribbean flamingos were reintroduced and are now staging a great comeback. They share this environment with wading birds, osprey and other raptors.
One of our favorite trails skirts the spectacular and virtually undeveloped shoreline for more than four miles, providing picturesque views of the ocean and the pristine white sand beaches, that Anegada is famous for, stretching into the distance. Alternatively, another popular route follows the trail through the center of the island between the tiny airport and Jack Bay, providing views of the Caribbean Sea in the south and open Atlantic Ocean to the north. Make sure to take plenty of water - you won't be climbing much, but the flat sandy roads can be challenging! Bike and moped rental options are also available for visitors who do not feel inclined to walk.
Virgin Gorda – the "Fat Virgin" – offers a very different experience, with a pair of uniquely stunning trails, both part of BVI National Parks. The Gorda Peak trail circumnavigates much of the hillside and then takes you up to the 1,370ft mountaintop. You can also visit the historic Copper Mine Point for more breathtaking ocean views from the exposed granite rock headland. Then the Baths trail at sea level is a highlight of virtually every week on board the Cuan Law. Starting with a lunchtime beach barbecue at The Crawl (to get you fueled up!), the crew will then give you an hour or so to catch your breath before escorting you to the Devil's Bay side of the Baths National Park.
You will combine walking, scrambling and splashing through the park, following well-marked trails back towards The Crawl. Words can't capture the magic of the tumbled boulders, scattered across the beach as if flung about by giants, but you'll hold the memories in your heart forever...
Contact us to book your luxury liveaboard BVI diving and sailing adventure on the magnificent Cuan Law - the best way to explore the idyllic islands and cays of the BVI.