Planning a journey to the enchanting Scilly Islands offers travelers a unique escape to a pristine archipelago just off Cornwall's coast. With five inhabited islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters, these remote gems provide car-free exploration, stunning landscapes, and a mild climate year-round. Making the right travel arrangements is essential for maximizing your island-hopping adventure.
Getting to the Scilly Islands
The Isles of Scilly sit approximately 30 miles from Cornwall's coastline, creating a secluded paradise that requires some planning to reach. Visitors can choose between sea and air transport options, each offering different perspectives of this remarkable archipelago consisting of St Mary's, St Martin's, Tresco, Bryher, and St Agnes islands.
Ferry options from Penzance
The Scillonian ferry provides a scenic sea journey from Penzance to St Mary's, taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach the islands. This popular option costs around £150 per person for a return ticket, with pet owners able to bring dogs aboard for roughly £23 each way. The ferry operates seasonally from March through November, making it unavailable during winter months. Many travelers appreciate this route for the generous luggage allowance and the chance to spot marine wildlife during the crossing. If you're planning to visit multiple islands during your stay, learn more on elrinconcunqueiru.com about organizing efficient island-hopping adventures once you arrive.
Skybus flights from mainland airports
For travelers preferring speed and convenience, Skybus flights connect the Scilly Islands with several mainland departure points. Operating from Exeter, Newquay, and Land's End airports, these flights offer dramatically reduced travel times—the Land's End to St Mary's journey takes just 15 minutes. Passengers should note the 15kg luggage restriction per person, significantly less than ferry allowances. The flights provide breathtaking aerial views of the archipelago, showcasing the islands' white sandy beaches and turquoise waters from above. Isles of Scilly Travel also offers convenient Fly + Sail packages for visitors who wish to experience both transport methods during their trip. Find on elrinconcunqueiru.com comprehensive guides for traveling through these beautiful islands, including tips for selecting appropriate accommodations based on which transportation method you choose.
Accommodation choices across the islands
When planning your trip to the Isles of Scilly, located about 30 miles off Cornwall's coast, finding the right place to stay is essential for a memorable experience. The five inhabited islands—St Mary's, St Martin's, Tresco, Bryher, and St Agnes—each offer unique accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Planning ahead is crucial, especially if you're visiting during peak seasons, as options can fill up quickly across these charming islands.
Luxury hotels versus local guesthouses
The Isles of Scilly present a range of accommodation styles from upscale establishments to cozy local options. For luxury seekers, Hell Bay Hotel on Bryher provides an exclusive retreat with stunning views. On Tresco, several upmarket options cater to visitors looking for premium amenities while exploring attractions like the famous Abbey Gardens. St Mary's, as the largest island and main entry point, offers the widest variety of accommodations from boutique hotels to family-run guesthouses.
Local guesthouses deliver authentic Scillonian hospitality and often provide invaluable local knowledge about island life. Many feature honesty boxes similar to those found along St Martin's sandy paths, reflecting the islands' unique character. These smaller establishments typically offer better value and a more personal experience than their luxury counterparts. When booking, consider each island's distinct personality—St Mary's bustling (by Scilly standards) atmosphere versus the tranquil setting of smaller islands like St Agnes with its total population contributing to the islands' community of just over 2,000 residents.
Camping and glamping experiences
For travelers seeking closer connection with Scilly's stunning natural environment, camping and glamping provide excellent alternatives. Troytown Farm on St Agnes offers a memorable camping experience with sweeping ocean views. Bryher campsite presents another fantastic option for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to experience the smallest inhabited island. Both sites require booking well in advance, particularly during summer months.
Glamping has gained popularity across the islands, offering the outdoor experience with added comfort. These upgraded camping options range from bell tents to shepherd's huts equipped with proper beds and cooking facilities. Many sites are strategically positioned to showcase the islands' mild climate and natural beauty.
Staying outdoors provides practical advantages beyond the experience itself. The islands' car-free nature (except parts of St Mary's) means most exploration happens on foot or bicycle, making campsites convenient bases for daily adventures. Camping also allows visitors to fully embrace the Isles of Scilly Visitor Pledge by minimizing their environmental impact while enjoying the unique landscapes and wildlife that make these islands so special.
