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

Discover Virgin Gorda's Copper Mine National Park: Where industrial history meets Caribbean beauty. Explore the ruins and scenic views!

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Explore the intriguing ruins of a 19th-century copper mine in Virgin Gorda's Copper Mine National Park. This historical site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history, showcasing the remnants of Cornish mining operations set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Copper Mine National Park, Virgin Gorda

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the park.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning views and historical ruins.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the Spanish Town ferry terminal, a taxi is the most convenient way to reach Copper Mine National Park. Taxis are readily available at the ferry dock. The ride to the park takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $4-7 per person for a one-way trip.

  • Car Rental

    Renting a car in Spanish Town offers flexibility in exploring Virgin Gorda, including Copper Mine National Park. Several car rental agencies operate near the ferry terminal. From Spanish Town, follow the signs to the park, located on the southeastern tip of the island. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes. Parking is available at the park. Car rentals vary in price depending on the vehicle type and rental duration.

  • Ferry

    If arriving from Tortola, take a ferry to Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda. Several ferry companies operate daily routes. From Road Town, Tortola, the ferry ride is about 30 minutes and costs approximately $20 one way. Upon arrival in Spanish Town, taxis are available to take you to Copper Mine National Park.

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Discover more about Copper Mine National Park, Virgin Gorda

Copper Mine National Park, situated on the southeastern tip of Virgin Gorda, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The park's prominent landmark, located at Mine Hill, overlooks the cliffs and the ocean. The park is home to the ruins of a 19th-century copper mine, a testament to a short-lived copper rush on Virgin Gorda. In the early 18th century, the Spanish were the first Europeans to mine copper here. However, the ruins that stand today were built by Cornish miners in the 1800s, following a decline in mineral deposits in Cornwall, England. From 1838 to 1867, Cornish miners worked to extract copper from the ground. The ore was then transported to Spanish Town along Coppermine Road, a road originally constructed by the miners. From there, it was shipped to Wales. The mine was abandoned in 1862 due to escalating expenses and low market prices. Today, visitors can explore the scattered ruins, including the powerhouse, mine shafts, cistern, engine house, and chimney. The area is rich with stones glittering with copper. The park also offers scenic views of the Caribbean Sea and the island's rugged coastline. Mine Hill is also a habitat for White-tailed tropicbirds, which nest in the rocky cliff crevices. Restoration work began in 1998 to stabilize the ruins.

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