Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Most Scenic Sights
The mountain range forming the island's spine provides
spectacular views of the surrounding water, islands and
Magens Bay. Drake's Seat, Mountain Top, Fairchild Park
and St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens are
among the most scenic spots. Bus tours stop at them and you
can easily drive from one to the other. A fifth site, Paradise
Point, is reached by cable car.
Drake's Seat
High above the city, this is the spot from which the pi-
rate-admiral chose to watch in 1593 as his fleet set sail for
its ill-fated attack on the Spanish stronghold of San Juan,
Puerto Rico.
From Drake's stone bench, you get a clear view of
heart-shaped Magens Bay and the tiny islands and cays
that sit in Drake's Passage, a thin stretch of water between
Tortola and St. John. An enterprising St. Thomian business-
man is always at the seat, with his docile donkey attired in a
spiffy straw hat. Allow him to photograph you astride his
donkey. It makes a great souvenir at just a small fee.
Drake's Seat is on Route 40, also
known as Skyline Drive.
Mountain Top
West of Drake's Seat, along Route 40, is St. Thomas' highest
point. At 1,547 feet, Mountain Top is the place to sample a
banana daiquiri while you gaze out at the British Virgin Is-
lands, St. John and Magens Bay. There are telescopic view-
ers, several shops, a tropical aviary and a restaurant. You'll
notice cooler air here.
H
Take Rte 40 north from Charlotte
Amalie.
