by Julian Putley
The Baths by Julian Putley
The origin of the boulders has been the topic of speculation for years. We can clear up many conjectures right now: The boulders were not hurled up onto the beach by a tempestuous storm; they were not disgorged by a volcano or carried here by a glacier of a long gone Ice Age. The boulders and the wonderful natural sculptures they form are due to magnificent geologic processes and weathering that has occurred over eons of time.
The indications are that the origin of the boulders occurred about 50 million years ago (give or take a few hundred thousand) when molten rock known as magma pushed its way upwards, cooled and solidified forming large slabs of mineral rich granite.
This became exposed due to faulting and uplifting of the sea floor and today large parts of Virgin Gorda are composed entirely of granite. The boulders are often described as “enormous,” “house-sized” and “gigantic” (photo) and although their size is imposing it is not their only remarkable quality. On close examination, one finds that the boulders exhibit an assortment of different shapes and forms that tantalize the imagination. Nature’sincredible sculpting is often enhanced by the various moods of sun and sea. Spray makes glistening sheens on rock surfaces while late or early rays of the sun can add mystical qualities. (photo) These wonderful creations are revered by those who have an appreciation for the enduring patience of nature.