Cycling in British Virgin Islands
Including Tortola Coastal and Ridge Roads. On the map.
The vibe
Cycling here is a rugged, steep endeavor on narrow, winding roads that demand constant attention to local traffic and sharp inclines. It is best to ride during the early morning hours in the winter months to avoid the midday heat and the heaviest flow of tourist shuttles. The experience is entirely DIY, as there is little infrastructure for cyclists and you will largely be sharing the road with locals and rental vehicles.
Tortola Coastal and Ridge Roads
Tortola
Banja-Frans Mulder / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Tortola offers challenging, steep climbs that reward cyclists with panoramic views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and neighboring islands. The rugged terrain and winding ridge roads provide a demanding workout for road cyclists seeking tropical scenery and significant elevation gain.
Access. Bike rentals are available in Road Town; travelers typically use local shops for maintenance and route advice.
Notes. Extremely hilly with steep gradients; high heat and humidity make early morning rides essential. Traffic can be narrow on ridge roads.