Discover the magic of the Isles of Scilly: paradisiacal beaches and picturesque landscapes
June 11, 2025
The Isles of Scilly are a true treasure hidden off the coast of Cornwall, offering an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Consisting of five inhabited islands and numerous smaller islets, this picturesque archipelago boasts paradisiacal beaches, crystal clear waters and a rich history. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the most beautiful parts of the Isles of Scilly, showing you why it's the perfect destination for a vacation of relaxation, adventure and discovery. From white sandy beaches to historic fortifications, from lush gardens to fascinating ancient settlements, the Isles of Scilly have everything you need for an unforgettable family vacation.
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Perfect beaches and picturesque landscapes
The Isles of Scilly are famous for their beautiful beaches that resemble tropical paradises. One of the most magnificent is St. Martin's, considered one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago. This tranquil island impresses with its golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Walking along the coast, you can enjoy picturesque views of the other islands. Particularly worthy is Great Bay, which tourists say is 'the most stunning beach on St Martin's, if not the entire Isles of Scilly'. Its calm waters and sandy shores are reminiscent of the Caribbean, making it an ideal place to relax and swim.
No less impressive is Pentle Bay on the island of Tresco. This long, white beach with crystal clear waters is often compared to paradisiacal corners of the Seychelles. Its charm lies not only in its beauty, but also in its tranquility - even in high season you can find a quiet place to relax here. It is worth remembering that there are no services nearby, so it is advisable to bring drinks and snacks with you for a beach picnic.
For those looking to combine history with beach relaxation, Old Town Bay on St. Mary's Island is ideal. This picturesque bay offers not only a beautiful beach, but also easy access to nearby attractions. There is an old cemetery, a charming cafe and Old Town stores nearby. The beach is a great place for swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding, although be aware of tides and wind.
When comparing the three beaches, it's worth noting their unique features:
- Great Bay on St. Martin's offers the most pristine and tranquil setting, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and contact with nature.
- Pentle Bay on Tresco impresses with its vastness and beautiful views, but requires better preparation due to the lack of nearby amenities.
- Old Town Bay on St. Mary's is the most accessible and offers the most activities nearby, making it ideal for families with children.
Regardless of your choice, each of these beaches guarantees an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to commune with the unique nature of the Isles of Scilly.
Fascinating history and historic sites
The Isles of Scilly are not only paradisiacal beaches, but also a place with a rich history, traces of which can be found at every turn. One of the most impressive sights is the Garrison Walls on the island of St. Mary's. These 17th-century fortifications surround the town of Hugh Town and offer spectacular views of the harbor and surrounding islands. A walk along the walls is not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Look out for the information boards that provide an insight into the history of the site.
Another fascinating monument is Cromwell's Castle on Tresco Island. This 17th-century tower fortress, built on the orders of Oliver Cromwell, is a perfectly preserved example of defensive architecture. Climbing to the highest shooting platform on the roof offers incredible views of the surrounding islands and the sea. The castle is particularly attractive to photography enthusiasts because of its picturesque location.
For those interested in even older history, the Porth Hellick Down Burial Chamber on St. Mary's Island should be a must-visit. This Neolithic burial chamber, more than 4,000 years old, is a well-preserved example of ancient burial architecture. The site offers not only a lesson in archaeology, but also beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Also worth a visit is Bant's Carn Burial Chamber and Halangy Down Ancient Village, also on St. Mary's. This archaeological complex includes a Bronze Age burial chamber and the remains of an ancient settlement. The site allows you to take your imagination back to the time of the islands' first inhabitants and understand how our ancestors lived thousands of years ago.
When comparing these sites, it is worth noting:
- Accessibility: Garrison Walls are the most easily accessible, located in the center of Hugh Town. Cromwell's Castle requires a short crossing on Tresco, while the archaeological sites on St. Mary's require a longer walk.
- Educational value: All sites offer a rich history lesson, but each from a different era. Garrison Walls and Cromwell's Castle focus on modern military history, while the burial chambers take us back to prehistoric times.
- Children's Attraction: The castles and fortifications may be of more interest to younger tourists because of the opportunities for exploration and climbing.
- Views: Both Garrison Walls and Cromwell's Castle offer spectacular panoramas of the islands, while archaeological sites allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape.
Regardless of your choice, each site offers a unique experience and allows you to better understand the fascinating history of the Isles of Scilly. It is well worth planning time to visit at least a few of them to fully appreciate the cultural richness of this unique archipelago.
Nature, gardens and unforgettable adventures
The Isles of Scilly is a paradise not only for beach and history lovers, but also for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. One of the most impressive sites in the archipelago is Tresco Abbey Garden, a true botanical gem. Established in the 19th century, this subtropical garden is home to more than 20,000 plant species from around the world. Walking through the alleys of the garden, you can admire exotic flowers, palms and succulents that don't normally grow in the British climate. It's the perfect place for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll among the lush vegetation.
For those looking for a more active vacation, Seal Snorkeling Adventures offers an unforgettable experience. This unique attraction allows close encounters with wild seals in their natural habitat. Tours are led by experienced guides who ensure safety and share fascinating information about the lives of these marine mammals. This is not only great fun, but also an educational experience that will remain in the memory of the whole family for a long time.
Wildlife enthusiasts should also visit the Lower Moors on St. Mary's Island. This nature reserve offers scenic nature trails that lead through marshy areas and forests. This is a great place for bird watching, especially during migration periods. The paths are well-maintained and easy to walk, making them ideal for families with children.
When comparing these attractions, it's worth noting:
- Accessibility: Tresco Abbey Garden requires a crossing to Tresco Island, but offers well-maintained paths and facilities. Seal Snorkeling Adventures organize trips from various islands, but require reservations in advance. Lower Moors are easily accessible on St. Mary's.
- Prices: admission to Tresco Abbey Garden is charged (about £18 per adult, as of 2023), while the Lower Moors are free. Seal Snorkeling Adventures is an expense of several tens of pounds per person.
- Physical activity: Seal Snorkeling requires good fitness and swimming skills. Walking in the gardens and reserves is less demanding and suitable for people of all ages.
- Seasonality: Tresco Abbey Garden and Lower Moors are attractive year-round, although they are most beautiful in spring and summer. Seal Snorkeling Adventures are mainly available during the summer season.
Regardless of the attractions chosen, the Isles of Scilly offer unforgettable experiences for the whole family. From leisurely walks among exotic plants, to exciting wildlife encounters, to relaxing moments in nature, there is something for everyone. It is worth planning your stay to take advantage of as many attractions as possible and fully appreciate the diversity of this unique archipelago. However, remember to always respect the local nature and follow the rules of environmental protection to preserve the beauty of the Isles of Scilly for future generations.
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