On the tranquil Isles of Scilly you'll find that life passes by at a more peaceful pace. These isles are famous for their stunning scenery, botanic gardens and powder-soft beaches. On this six-day trip you'll discover why so many people consider the Isles of Scilly to be the UK's most idyllic archipelago.
This tour will take you to many of the islands' most unforgettable locations. You'll visit the sub-tropical Tresco Abbey Garden, described as "Kew without the glass", the rugged coastlines of Bryher and the quaint harbours of St Martin's.
You'll be delighted by the range of wildlife to be spotted on the Isles of Scilly, with many species that can't be seen anywhere else in the UK. The head of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Julian Branscombe, will give a talk to explain the trust's work and give you an insight into the Isles' native wildlife, which includes porpoises, dolphins, seals, and many species of birds.
For travellers departing April 2024, you'll stay at the stylish and comfortable The Atlantic on St Mary's, which will serve as your base for the trip. Here you can enjoy flavourful cuisine made with seasonal local ingredients, as well as exceptional views across the harbour.
For travellers departing September 2024 departures, you'll stay at the Star Castle Hotel on St Mary's. This historic building dates back to 1593 and boasts a heated indoor swimming pool and secluded, peaceful gardens. You could even sample seafood caught by the owner from the hotel's boat.
"I wanted to say how much we enjoyed our holiday in the Scillies. It was all planned so well. The hotel was excellent along with the food everywhere we went. Thank you all."
- October 2022 Guest
Please be advised that you will need to pre-book and pre-select most of your meals before your departure due to group size.
Please note this is a busy and full itinerary, so a good degree of mobility is required to get the most out of this trip, which involves lots of walking and getting in and out of boats.
Julian Branscombe joined the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust as the Chief Executive in 2021. Before joining the Trust, Julian worked at Penwith Landscape Partnership, Gwent Wildlife Trust, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, RSPB and an ecological consultancy sharing his expertise on countryside access, wildlife, archaeology and sustainable farming.
April 2024 departures: Five nights' accommodation at The Atlantic Inn St Mary's, with dinner and breakfast daily included
September 2024 departures: Five nights' accommodation at Star Castle St Mary's with three dinners and breakfast daily included
Also included: Boat transfers within the islands, return ferry from Penzance to St Mary's, all entrance fees, guided walking tour of St Agnes and services of a tour manager throughout
Today you'll arrive at Penzance and meet your tour group at the departure terminal for the Scillonian ferry. Here you'll meet your expert tour manager who will greet you and assist you with check-in.
Once you arrive on St Mary's you'll make your way to The Atlantic in Hugh Town (April 2024 departures) or Star Castle (September 2024 departures) and begin to explore your surroundings. In the evening you'll have dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Today you'll be exploring the lovely isle of St Martin's where you'll discover the island's ruggedly beautiful shoreline. Little St Martin's is just two miles long, but boasts some of the finest beaches in the British Isles.
Lunch at a local spot is included, and afterwards you'll pay a visit to St Martin's Vineyard, a unique coastal vineyard and winery which is working towards organic production of white, red and rose wines.
Today you'll take the boat to beautiful Bryher where lunch has been arranged at the luxury Hell Bay Hotel. Bryher is an island of exciting contrasts. On one side you have the roaring Atlantic ocean and a rugged coastline, while on the other side you'll find tranquil waters and powder-soft beaches.
Hell Bay is on the Atlantic side, and from here you can watch as dramatic waves thunder into the bay. The restaurant at Hell Bay Hotel is one of the best rated in the Isles of Scilly. You'll tuck into award-winning dishes at the hotel bar which use the finest ingredients from the Isles of Scilly, Cornwall and the wider West Country.
This morning, following another hearty breakfast, you'll make your way to the jetty and hop on the ferry transfer to St Agnes, where you'll take a guided walk around the island's coastline.
There's plenty to see along St Agnes' coast, from rocky outcrops on its exposed west side to paradise beaches in its sheltered coves. There's a sandbar that links St Agnes with the tiny neighboring island of Gugh, where you'll find white sand and crystal-clear water.
You'll tuck into lunch at a local pub before taking a fascinating marine wildlife cruise, where you have a chance to spot some of the special animals and birds who call the Scillies home.
After breakfast you'll meet your tour manager and your guide for the day. You'll make your way to the jetty and take the boat transfer to Tresco where you'll visit the world famous Tresco Abbey Garden, home to a collection of some 20,000 plants from 80 countries.
The garden was established in the 19th century around the ruins of an old Benedictine Abbey and is now home to a fantastic variety of plants from all over the world, including Brazil, New Zealand and South Africa. The garden changes throughout the year as different species thrive. In spring, flowers bloom here weeks before they do on the mainland thanks to the Tresco's special sub-tropical climate. You'll have time for lunch (not included) in Tresco before heading back to St Mary's.
After your final breakfast your hotel you'll enjoy some free time on St Mary's before taking the Scillonian ferry back to Penzance.
The Atlantic provides a superb base, right in the hub of the island. It's great to step out onto the paved streets at the centre of Hugh Town, minutes from the water's edge.
Hugh Street is home to shopping, restaurants and bars in the centre of St Mary's. Town beach is only a couple of minutes' walk away.
By plane: Skybus flights to St Mary's from Newquay (30 minutes), Exeter (1 hour) or Lands End (15 minutes). The hotel is a 5-minute drive from the airport.
By boat: the Scillionian III Passenger Ferry departs from Penzance (2 hours 45 minutes). The hotel is a 5-minute walk from the terminal.
Suited to those after a comfortable and low key base, at the hub of the island with heritage at the heart. The maritime décor - particularly the black and white images of historic sailing vessels - adds lots of brilliant character to the walls.
It's a joy to stay in the centre of Hugh Town and become immersed in island life, mingling with the locals and visitors to the island. The Atlantic has a selection of dog-friendly rooms available to book for an additional charge of £10 per night. Bowls, blankets and treats are provided and dogs are welcome to join you whilst dining in the bar area.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Terrace
- Beachfront
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
You can't beat a Superior room with fabulous V-Spring beds and extra space to sprawl out - perfect for making the most of those dreamy vistas! The large cushioned window seat is a great space to relax and watch the languid pace of island life.
Classic Room, Sea View Room, Superior Room
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi
Waking up slow with an Atlantic Scillonian breakfast out on the terrace was a particular treat. The Atlantic's Seafood Sharer ticks all the boxes - mussels, fish goujons, smoked mackerel, salt & pepper squid, black tiger prawns and Atlantic prawn cocktail served with fries.
The Atlantic: pub and terrace, harbour views. Classics and modern cuisine, including scampi, steamed mussels and west country burger. Open daily for lunch and dinner.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a double room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single room no supplement. Single supplement for double room £195. Deposit 20%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL Limted).
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a double room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single room no supplement. Single supplement for double room £195. Deposit 20%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL Limted).
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a double room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single room no supplement. Single supplement for double room £819. Deposit 20%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Not suitable for those with mobility issues. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL Limted).