The Scilly Islands stand as a pristine hiking paradise off the southwestern tip of England, offering unparalleled natural beauty and diverse trails for adventure seekers. Just 28 miles from Cornwall's coastline, this enchanting archipelago captivates visitors with its breathtaking coastal scenery and unique island atmosphere.
Discovering the Unique Terrain of Scilly Islands
The Isles of Scilly comprise several main islands: St Mary's, Tresco, St. Martin's, St. Agnes, Bryher, and Gugh. Each presents its own distinctive landscape and walking opportunities, totaling approximately 33 miles of trails across the archipelago. The islands benefit from a special climate influenced by the Gulf Stream, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration and spectacular flora.
Diverse landscapes across the archipelago
St Mary's, the largest island with 1,800 residents, offers over 30 miles of nature trails winding through beaches, villages, cliff-tops, and archaeological sites. A 16km circumnavigation reveals shipwreck remains and stunning viewpoints. Tresco presents roughly 10km of walking paths showcasing dramatic scenery, while St. Martin's offers a similar distance with the option to extend your hike to White Island. The smaller islands of St. Agnes (10km) and Bryher (7km) deliver equally rewarding experiences despite their compact size. For extensive information about trail difficulties and viewpoints across all islands, see on https://www.elrinconcunqueiru.com/ where detailed maps highlight the most scenic spots throughout the archipelago.
Best seasons for hiking expeditions
While the Scilly Islands can be explored year-round, certain seasons provide optimal hiking conditions. The islands enjoy a milder climate than mainland UK thanks to their unique position and the Gulf Stream's influence. Summer brings pleasant temperatures, with July water temperatures reaching about 13°C – perfect for combining coastal walks with refreshing swims. Spring offers spectacular wildflower displays along the trails, enhancing the walking experience. Early autumn provides warm days with fewer visitors on the popular paths. Transportation to the islands includes a 60-minute flight from Exeter Airport, with Skybus options also available from Land's End and Newquay airports. Alternatively, visitors can sail aboard the Scillonian III from Penzance, making the islands accessible for travel planning throughout most of the year.
Essential trails for every skill level
The Scilly Islands, situated 28 miles off Cornwall's coast, offer a hiking paradise with over 33 miles of trails spread across five main islands: St Mary's, Tresco, St. Martin's, St. Agnes, and Bryher. This archipelago boasts a unique climate influenced by the Gulf Stream, creating ideal conditions for exploring diverse landscapes year-round. Each island presents distinctive hiking experiences suitable for beginners through advanced trekkers, with St Mary's alone featuring more than 30 miles of nature trails.
Coastal paths with stunning ocean views
St Mary's Island delivers the most extensive hiking opportunities with a 16km circumnavigation route that ranks as Britain's 74th favorite walk according to a 2017 ITV poll. This trail showcases dramatic coastlines where lucky hikers might spot basking sharks, dolphins, and Atlantic grey seals in the surrounding waters. The St. Agnes coastal path extends approximately 10km, offering uninterrupted ocean panoramas and access to secluded beaches. Bryher, though smaller at 7km, provides some of the archipelago's most dramatic coastal scenery where the Atlantic crashes against rugged cliffs. For those seeking moderate coastal walks, Tresco's 10km path combines beach access with elevated viewpoints perfect for wildlife watching, including puffins during certain seasons.
Hidden inland routes through historic sites
Beyond the coastal trails, the Scilly Islands harbor fascinating inland paths connecting archaeological sites and historic landmarks. St Mary's interior routes wind through quaint villages and past ancient monuments, with trails suitable for casual walkers. The island's varied terrain includes archaeological sites and remnants of shipwrecks that tell stories of maritime history. Tresco offers garden enthusiasts special inland paths through its famous subtropical gardens. St. Martin's inland trails extend approximately 10km with an additional 2km if crossing to White Island at low tide, revealing hidden historical features among lush vegetation. Proper preparation is essential for these walks – carrying a map, compass, and checking the Countryside Code ensures safe exploration while respecting these protected landscapes within this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
