Excursion Amazing mountain views & villa botanica tour at Saint Thomas

This 3.5-hour multi-aspect tour by open-air safari bus brings St. Thomas' breathtaking scenery and lush tropical foliage to the forefront – from the spectacular high lookout at Mountain Top to the graceful greenery around Villa Botanica Gardens and sugar plantation ruins.

Mountaintop vistas & shops

The sensory pleasures begin with a scenic drive up to the 1,500-foot summit overlook at Mountain, highest viewpoint on the island. During your half-hour stopover here, expect to be bowled over by sweeping views from an expansive observation deck. Far below, heart-shaped Magens Bay Beach seems torn from the pages of a coffee table book, while St. John and the British Virgin Islands vie for attention in the far distance. There’s also duty-free shopping up here if you’re so inclined, and world-famous Banana Daiquiris available for sipping at an additional cost.

A wonderland in green

Barely another 15 minutes down the road by safari bus travel, Villa Botanica and the ruins of Plantation Crown and Hawk present a very different viewpoint on the USVI. Your 1.75-hour visit to this 18th-century estate on the site of an abandoned sugar mill overlooking Charlotte Amalie begins with an interior tour and some background on the historical legacy of this captivating tropical refuge. Then you’re free to wander at will through the peaceful gardens, crossing small bridges to reach stunning valley vistas along trails abloom with bougainvillea, palms, fragrant orchids and frangipani, and clumps of exotic birds of paradise. A soundtrack of bubbling fountains accompanies you as you explore, perhaps even a strutting peacock along the way. Once done relishing Villa Botanica, the return drive to the harbour proves nearly as scenic for many of the 30 minutes required. 

Points of interests

Points of interest seen include: Mountain Top lookout, Villa Botanica, St .Thomas North Shore

Note

Please note: This moderate excursion includes self-guided walking along gravel and unpaved surfaces and up 20-25 steps at the Villa. It is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair or have limited mobility. The tour vehicle features bench seating. Wear casual clothing and bring along your preferred sun protection. Local crafts and daiquiris may be purchased at guests’ discretion at Mountain Top. A sample of bush tea is served at Villa Botanica, and various other beverages may be purchased. The order of sights and activities may vary.