Full Guide for a luxury travel to the Isles of Scilly

Nestled off the coast of Cornwall, England, the Isles of Scilly offer a secluded and idyllic escape for discerning travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious accommodations. With their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, these islands provide a truly unforgettable experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the best ways to experience the Isles of Scilly in style, from luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining to thrilling outdoor adventures and cultural exploration. Discover the hidden gems of this enchanting archipelago and plan your dream getaway.

General info about Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly is an archipelago off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, England. One of the islands, St Agnes, is the most southerly point in Britain, being over four miles farther south than the most southerly point of the British mainland at Lizard Point.

The Isles of Scilly are a world apart in every way, outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt. A natural wonder, like a cluster of precious ocean jewels, where nature thrives, and the soul is inspired.

The Isles of Scilly is the UK’s largest archipelago. With only five inhabited islands; St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martin’s, Bryher and St. Agnes plus countless uninhabited ones to explore.

St. Mary’s is the Isles of Scilly’s largest island (population 1,800) and the gateway to the rest of the islands.

The Weather and best times to visit Scilly Isles :

In Isles of Scilly, the summers are short, cool, and windy; the winters are long, cold, wet, and extremely windy; and it is partly cloudy year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 44°F to 66°F and is rarely below 38°F or above 70°F.

It’s Spring in General , Scilly isles are particularly pleasant between May and September and the majority of visitors choose this period for their holiday. However, the Easter holidays and October half term on Scilly can be lovely – the perfect destination for an early or late break.

Are the Scilly Isles worth visiting? 8 reasons why you should visit the Scilly Isles

Luxury holidays in Isles of Scilly provide excellent value for money, because you can easily enjoy five different islands during your stay. While most people base themselves on the biggest island, St Mary’s, the other four inhabited islands are all well worth a visit.

1. Unplug and unwind You can relax on Scilly more than you could EVER imagine. Even at the height of summer, it’s not remotely busy on the islands compared with usual holiday destinations. Few cars, scarce queues, and absolutely no hustle and bustle.
2. Hop from island to island : Scilly is not just a holiday to Scilly – it’s a holiday to an entire archipelago. Five tiny inhabited islands and a wealth of uninhabited . You can reach them all on old colourful “tripper” boats, so why not do a different one every day and then argue the toss over which is your favourite and why!
3. Outstanding beauty and nature :  Scilly embraces simple pleasures. Wake up to a meditative walk at sunrise, stroll the dramatic coastal paths and amazing beaches; pause at local crafts and produce stalls, watch the seabirds swoop and dive, and the seals play in the surf, picnic on a deserted beach.
4. White-sand beaches to yourself : Even at the height of summer, you can find solitude on many a beach on Scilly to escape the world and its people. And they are truly tremendous – ranging from vast expanses of fine white sand lapped by stunning clear waters to tiny rocky inlets and coves carved from fierce winter waves. Beachcomb or boulder – or simply chill – to your heart’s content!
5. Fun on the water : In every sheltered cove, there’s an opportunity to go for a wild sea-swim, or hire a kayak, SUP or boat and experience close-up Scilly’s amazing aquatic environment. Step it up a gear and coasteer off Peninnis Head or swim with seals on St. Martin’s. Or keep it simple and take a leisurely boat trip to appreciate Bishop Rock Lighthouse and the magnificent seals and seabirds.
6. Food, glorious food! : Nowhere can you find food more local than on the Isles of Scilly. For a population so small, and an environment so pristine, they’re spoilt for choice for island produce. For a great taste of Scilly, try some local lobster or crab, island duck or beef, with locally brewed ale, St. Agnes gin and Scilly wine as well a locally produced leaves, ice-cream, chocolate and fudge. they have it all right there.
7. Look up to the stars : Scilly has five Dark Sky Discovery Sites and is well known for being one of the darkest places in England (if not the darkest), thanks to its remote location and lack of light pollution. So on a clear black night, treat yourself to the planetary drama, marvel at the Milky Way and check out the universe in all its Scilly splendour.
8. Embrace our history : You’ll soon discover that Scilly is a story of an isolated island population – of tragedy, bootie and innovation – and of a proud island community. From shipwrecks to treasure and from burial chambers to deserted villages, Scilly’s history is compelling because it mingles so effortlessly with modern-day life on the islands.

Nearest Airport to Isles of Scilly :

St. Mary’s Airport (ISC):

it is operated by the Council of the Isles of Scilly and is available for use by the travelling and general public as well as private pilots. All terminal facilities are at ground level and ramps provide easy access to all public areas, including wheelchair accessible toilet.

You can enjoy airport concierge service such as Meet and greet service and VIP terminal Service provided by airssist online platform where a personal team will be at your disposal to handle all the airport formalities on your behalf.

Land’s End Airport (LEQ) :

airssist provides The VIP Terminal Facilities , it’s also known as Private Lounge, this service offers travelers the most luxurious travel amenities at Lands End airport in Lands End (LEQ) terminal.

Also airssist is the best choice for Airport Concierge Services such as the Departure Meet and Greet Services according to your travel needs and suitable to your budget.

Cornwall Airport Newquay (NQY) :

VIP Terminal , Meet and Greet services definitely worth trying due the well equipped team and high quality service by airssist .

The Executive Lounge there includes Comfortable seating and a quiet and relaxed environment, just off the main departure lounge. Hot and cold soft and alcoholic drinks are available as well as light refreshments. Priority Pass lounge users can also access the lounge – please present your proof of membership at the information desk prior to passing through security.

Brest Bretagne Airport(BES):

airssist also provides high quality VIP services at Brest Bretagne Airport offers you extensive luxury to make your stay as relaxed as possible, never forget to mention the VIP Terminal Service to live Luxury life and enjoy your flight in every single detail in addition to Transportation Service & Chauffeur and Limo service.

Best Luxury Hotels in Isles of Scilly

• The Land’s End Hotel :

Land’s End Inn is a short walk to everything Provincetown has to offer. Outdoor adventure and beauty abound throughout the Cape Cod National Seashore with beaches, bike trails, marshes, ponds, dune tours, and whale watch tours. The numerous art galleries, mostly in the town’s East End, are a short walk away. And the lively restaurant and bar scene offers something for everyone—be it a romantic dinner by the water or a late night out at a dance club.

• Cape Cornwall Club :

Cape Cornwall Golf & Leisure is an excellent choice for travellers visiting St Just, offering a charming environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay.

Given the close proximity to Jean Barry Soap Company (1.2 mi), guests of Cape Cornwall Golf & Country Club Hotel can easily experience one of St Just’s most popular landmarks.

• The Queens Hotel :

it offers high levels of comfort and style whilst still reflecting its heritage with fine paintings and grand architecture. Many of the bedrooms have sea views and the Promenade Restaurant is well known for its food and use of fresh local produce. it has ample car parking and free wi-fi throughout the hotel.

• Dolphin House :

Dolphin House evokes the sense of a grand manor house, with its hilltop location further adding to this impression. It is a large old granite rectory, with spectacular views towards Round Island Lighthouse, set in large private walled garden.

Downstairs, a grand dining room, high-ceilinged living room and a cook’s kitchen combine to provide ample leisure space. The staircase ascends past a series of bedrooms including a little attic room, many enjoying views across Tresco’s rolling landscape and out to the sea.

The property is set amongst a walled garden – a veritable kempt jungle of texture and colour, begging for games of hide & seek or sunlit afternoons simply lazing.

• Star Castle Hotel :

This striking star-shaped fortress is set within its original garrison walls amid four acres of subtropical gardens, mixing centuries-old character with contemporary charm. Highlights include magnificent views from the turrets and ramparts, locally produced wines, and lobster and crab caught daily by the owner.

Notable People in the Isles of Scilly:

• Saint Lide a bishop who lived on the island of St Helen’s in the Isles of Scilly.
• Augustus John Smith (1804 in London – 1872 in Plymouth)[106] Lord Proprietor of the Isles of Scilly for over thirty years. In 1834 he acquired the lease on the Isles of Scilly from the Duchy of Cornwall for £20,000. Liberal MP for Truro 1857–1865.
• John Godolphin (1617 in Scilly – 1678) an English jurist and writer, an admiralty judge under the Commonwealth.
• Stella Turk, MBE (1925 Scilly – 2017 in Camborne) a British zoologist, naturalist, and conservationist. Worked on marine biology and conservation, particularly on marine molluscs and mammals.
• Sam Llewellyn (born 1948 in Tresco) a British author of literature for children and adults.
• Sir Frederick Hervey-Bathurst, 3rd Baronet (1807 in Scilly – 1881 in Wiltshire) a famous English cricketer.
• John Edmund Sharrock Moore ARCS (1870 in Rossendale – 1947 in Penzance) an English biologist, lead two expeditions to Tanganyika. During the 1920s he moved to Tresco.

Faqs

How do I get to the Isles of Scilly?

The most convenient way to reach the Isles of Scilly is by air. There are regular flights from Newquay Airport (Cornwall) to St. Mary’s Airport, the largest of the islands. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Penzance on the mainland.

2. What are the best luxury accommodation options in the Isles of Scilly?

The Isles of Scilly offer a range of luxurious accommodation options to suit various preferences. Some of the top choices include:

• Tresco Abbey Hotel: A historic hotel with elegant rooms, a spa, and stunning gardens.
• Hotel Tresco: A boutique hotel with modern amenities and panoramic sea views.
• St. Martin’s Retreat: A secluded retreat with cottages and lodges overlooking the bay.
• The Atlantic Hotel: A luxury hotel on St. Mary’s with a spa, fine dining, and beautiful gardens.

3. What are the must-see attractions in the Isles of Scilly?

The Isles of Scilly offer a wealth of attractions to explore. Some of the must-see highlights include:

• Tresco Abbey Gardens: A stunning botanical garden with exotic plants and sculptures.
• St. Martin’s Castle: A historic castle with panoramic views of the islands.
• Porthcurno Beach: A beautiful sandy beach with clear turquoise waters.
• Bryher Island: A peaceful island with stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Old Grimsby: A charming village with traditional cottages and a historic church.

4. What are the best activities for luxury travelers in the Isles of Scilly?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Isles of Scilly, including:

• Sailing and boating: Explore the islands by boat and discover hidden coves and beaches.
• Cycling and walking: Enjoy the scenic countryside on two wheels or on foot.
• Swimming and sunbathing: Relax on the beautiful beaches and soak up the sun.
• Wildlife watching: Spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Golf: Play a round of golf on the Tresco Golf Course, one of the most scenic courses in the UK.

5. What is the best time to visit the Isles of Scilly?

The Isles of Scilly can be visited year-round, but the peak tourist season is from April to September. The spring and autumn months offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a more peaceful getaway.

Note: Please note that the information on this page is generic & subject to change due to fluctuations in airport services. Kindly confirm service availability with our team, as offerings may vary daily.