Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
W The “Rain Forest” Hike (St. Croix): At the northwestern end of St. Croix lies the
15-acre “rain forest,” which is thick with magnificent plant life. The little-traveled
four-wheel-drive roads through the area make great hiking paths. See p. 168.
W The Buck Island Walk (off St. Croix): A circumnavigation of this island, which is
accessible by boat, takes about 2 hours and is rated moderate. Because the island
is ringed with white-sand beaches, you can always take a break for a refreshing
swim. There's also a trail that points inland. See p. 186.
W The Sage Mountain National Park Hike (Tortola): This 3- to 4-hour hike is one of
the most dramatic in the British Virgins. It goes from Brewer's Bay to the top of
Mount Sage, the highest peak in the Virgin Islands, at 523m (1,716 ft.). Along the
way, you'll see intriguing ruins of old homes in addition to the beautiful flora and
fauna of the park's primeval forest. See p. 216.
THE best HISTORIC SIGHTS
W Fort Christian (St. Thomas): This fort, which stands in the heart of Charlotte
Amalie, was built in 1672 after the arrival of the first Danish colonists. The oldest
building on the island, it has been vastly altered over the years and has housed a
jail, a courthouse, a town hall, a church, and, most recently, a historical museum.
Head to the roof for a stellar view. See p. 51.
W Crown House (St. Thomas): This 18th-century, stone-built mansion served as the
home of two former governors. Among the many antiques here are memorabilia
that belonged to Governor-General Peter von Scholten, who occupied the prem-
ises in 1827. A French chandelier in the mansion is said to have come from Ver-
sailles. See p. 90.
W Annaberg Historic Trail (St. John): The ruins of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation are
the greatest reminder of St. John's plantation era. The remains of the building have
been spruced up rather than restored, and the surrounding land is now filled with
lush vegetation. Visitors can explore the former slave quarters. See p. 132.
W Fort Christiansvaern (St. Croix): This fort is one of the best preserved of its type
in the West Indies, with a facade that hasn't changed much since the 1820s. It was
constructed from ballast bricks imported from Denmark, the island's colonial
guardian. The first fort on the spot was built between 1732 and 1749, and part of
that structure remains. See p. 172.
W Fort Frederik (St. Croix): This fort, completed in 1760, is said to have been the
first to salute the flag of the newly formed United States. It was also here, in 1848,
that Governor-General Peter von Scholten read a proclamation freeing the island's
slaves. A small museum sits on the site today. See p. 174.
THE best RESORTS
W Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort (St. Thomas;
&   888/236-2427 or 340/776-8500; www.marriott.com): The sprawling, luxe
resort of Frenchman's Reef practically put St. Thomas on the tourist map. It's
linked to its even better sibling next door, Marriott Morning Star Beach Resort, to
make up one mega-resort. Guests at both properties share the same amenities,
facilities, and restaurants. The resort stands on one of the best beaches on the
island. See p. 64.
W The Ritz-Carlton (St. Thomas; &   800/241-3333 or 340/775-3333; www.ritz
carlton.com): There is no grander place to stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Fronted
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