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At 1,716 ft (515 m), Sage Mountain is the tallest in the Virgin Islands. Most of the park sits above 1,000 ft (300 m), which allows rainforest species to grow. Hike the paths that crisscross its 92 acres.

This small garden provides a shady respite from the rigors of touring Road Town. Formerly the island’s agricultural experiment station, the park is home to over 62 species of palms as well as many other varieties of tropical plants. The grounds include a cactus garden.

Dating to 1798, this estate has an old stone windmill as its heart, the only one left in the BVI. Nearby are ruins of the overseers’ quarters and boiling house, overlooking Tortola’s north shore.

Privately owned, this tiny distillery dates to the 18th century. It is the only place in the BVI that still produces rum. Stop by for a tour and bring home a few bottles.

This lovely beach offers acres of solitude, particularly at its western end. Shell aficionados can while away a few hours scouring the beach. You’ll see Little and Great Camanoe as well as Marina Cay and Scrub Island across the water.

Cornish miners worked the mines here in the mid-1800s, but there’s evidence of earlier use by the Spanish. The ruins of a copper mine chimney stand by the shore with a boiling house, cistern, and mine shaft nearby.

A gorgeous strand of sand and calm coves make this the perfect place to stop for a swim. Snorkeling is excellent as well. The beach has a swing set and picnic tables.

The wooden tower on the 1,370-ft (410-m) Gorda Peak extends the views as far south as St. Croix, some 50 miles (80 km) away. The park has several species of flora and fauna, including the Virgin Islands gecko.

Boulders as large as 40 ft (12 m) form caves that can be explored on foot and with snorkel. This is a busy area, a 10-minute hike down from the road.

The mail shipRhonewent down in 1867 when a hurricane dashed it against the rocks off Salt Island. Any treasures have long since been looted, but swim through its hulk for a great show of marine life.