Virgin Gorda Regions Guide - $section

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Its coastline fractured with hundreds of bays and inlets, Virgin Gorda, third largest of the British Virgin Islands, is a haven for 'yachties' and holidaymakers, providing private, safe anchorages and secluded pristine beaches.

Christopher Columbus was responsible for the name of the isle, which means 'Fat Virgin', because its shape reminded him of a reclining woman with a distended stomach. The heavy belly is the island's central high point, known as Gorda Peak, from which lush indigenous vegetation criss-crossed with numerous trails spreads down to the coast and the azure sea.

Virgin Gorda, just less than nine square miles (23 sq km) in area, is still a virgin paradise in many respects, development being strictly controlled. The island's resorts are luxurious and discreet, staffed almost entirely by local residents, and blending gently into the idyllic surroundings.

Although the island offers a plethora of beautiful beaches, the star attraction is The Baths on its southern shores, where a jumble of gigantic granite stones lie half submerged. The boulders have formed fascinating grottoes, tunnels, arches and pools: a playground for exploring and snorkelling.

The island's main town, Spanish Town, presents an unhurried, laid-back atmosphere, where visitors can take their time browsing among a plentiful supply of shops offering souvenirs, beach-wear, fashion items and local arts and crafts. There are also numerous restaurants, most with catchy names like 'Mad Dog' and 'Sip & Dip', serving up the delicious local cuisine, including unsurpassed lobster feasts.

The friendly locals are justifiably proud of their piece of paradise which, it is hoped, will long retain its reputation of being the peaceful, relaxing 'Caribbean as it used to be'.