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Copper Mine National Park: A Glimpse into Virgin Gorda's Past

Discover the historical ruins and scenic beauty of Copper Mine National Park, where Virgin Gorda's mining past meets stunning Caribbean views.

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Explore the ruins of a 19th-century copper mine, a silent testament to Virgin Gorda's industrial past. This national park offers a unique blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, with trails meandering through the remnants of Cornish mining operations and offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Copper Mine National Park, Virgin Gorda

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and historical remnants.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the Spanish Town ferry terminal or the Virgin Gorda Airport (VIJ), a taxi is the most direct way to reach Copper Mine National Park. Taxis are readily available at both locations. The ride to the park takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $4-7 per person.

  • Car Rental

    If you're arriving by ferry to Spanish Town, several car rental agencies are available. From the ferry terminal, follow the main road south and then east towards the southeastern tip of the island. Signs will guide you to Copper Mine National Park. Parking is available near the park entrance. Car rentals typically range from $50-$75 per day, but this gives you the flexibility to explore other parts of the island.

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Discover more about Copper Mine National Park, Virgin Gorda

Copper Mine National Park, located on the southeastern tip of Virgin Gorda, is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. The park's main attraction is the ruins of a 19th-century copper mine, a relic of a short-lived copper rush that brought Cornish miners to the island. Spaniards first mined copper here in the early 18th century, but the ruins visible today are from the 1800s when Cornish miners arrived following a decline in mineral deposits in Cornwall, England. From 1838 to 1867, these miners worked to extract copper, leaving behind engine houses, mine shafts, and a distinctive stone chimney that still stands against the skyline. The mine was abandoned in 1862 due to escalating expenses and low market prices. Today, visitors can wander through the ruins, imagining the bustling activity of the past. The park offers walking trails that wind through the historical site, providing panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the island's rugged coastline. The site is also a habitat for White-tailed tropicbirds, which nest in the cliffs by the sea. Restoration efforts began in 1998 to stabilize the ruins, with experts from Cornwall assisting in the process. The park is a testament to Virgin Gorda's layered history, from early Amerindian use of copper for tools and jewelry to the European mining endeavors.

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