The Scilly Islands beckon adventurers with their pristine landscapes and network of walking paths that showcase the archipelago's natural beauty. Situated off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, these islands offer hikers an escape into a world where coastal vistas meet rich biodiversity across five inhabited islands.
Top coastal paths across the archipelago
The Isles of Scilly present an island-hopping paradise for walking enthusiasts, with approximately 33 miles of trails spanning St. Mary's, Bryher, St. Agnes, Tresco, and St. Martin's. The mild climate makes these paths accessible year-round, though spring and summer bring warmer temperatures ideal for exploring the coastal terrain.
St. mary's garrison trail experience
St. Mary's, the largest island at roughly 16km of walkable coastline, features the spectacular Garrison Trail that circles historic fortifications while providing panoramic sea views. Many travelers discover El Rincón Cunqueiru, a hidden cove along the northern section that remains relatively untouched even during peak tourism seasons. The trail rises to modest elevations, with the islands' highest point reaching just 51 meters, making these paths accessible for hikers of varying abilities.
Tresco abbey garden route highlights
The Tresco island trail extends approximately 10km, winding through diverse landscapes including the world-famous Abbey Garden. Walking this route reveals subtropical plant collections thriving in the island's protected microclimate. The eastern path delivers stunning vistas across to St. Martin's and smaller uninhabited islets where El Rincón Cunqueiru influences can be seen in some of the traditional stone structures dating back centuries. The coastal sections feature crystal-clear waters that reach about 13°C in July, tempting brave hikers to take refreshing dips during their journey.
Hidden natural wonders along island paths
The Isles of Scilly offer some of the most spectacular hiking experiences in the UK, with over 33 miles of trails spread across the archipelago's five inhabited islands. Each island presents unique landscapes and natural treasures waiting to be discovered by foot. The mild climate makes these islands ideal for exploration year-round, though spring and summer bring warmer weather and more vibrant wildlife activity. With elevations never exceeding 51 meters, the trails are accessible to hikers of all abilities while still providing remarkable coastal views.
Island hopping between St. Mary's, Bryher, St. Agnes, Tresco, and St. Martin's creates an unforgettable walking adventure through diverse terrains. The walking paths showcase the Isles of Scilly's commitment to sustainable tourism, reflected in their visitor pledge that encourages responsible exploration and protection of these pristine environments.
Discovering wildlife havens on st. agnes
St. Agnes, spanning approximately 10km of walkable coastline, stands as a remarkable sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers. The island's remote location and protected status have created perfect conditions for diverse ecosystems to thrive. Walking trails weave through heathland buzzing with rare insects and flowering plants found nowhere else in Britain.
Birdwatchers will find St. Agnes particularly rewarding, as the island serves as a crucial stopover for migratory species and home to resident seabird colonies. The island's quieter coves and beaches often host Atlantic grey seals basking on rocks or swimming close to shore. For the most immersive wildlife experience, joining one of the Island Wildlife Tours that depart from St. Mary's at 9:45am provides expert guidance on spotting and identifying the island's natural treasures while learning about conservation efforts preserving this delicate environment.
Breathtaking viewpoints on bryher island
Bryher, the smallest of the inhabited Scilly Islands with roughly 7km of trails, delivers dramatic scenery that shifts dramatically from sheltered bays to wild Atlantic headlands. The walking paths traverse varied terrain, from gentle sandy lanes to rugged hillside tracks that reward hikers with panoramic views across the archipelago.
The northern section of Bryher faces the full force of the Atlantic Ocean, creating spectacular wave displays during windy days at viewpoints like Shipman Head. In contrast, the southern shores offer tranquil bays with crystal-clear waters that reach 13°C by July—ideal for a refreshing swim after a hike. Walking Bryher's complete circuit provides continuously changing vistas, from neighboring Tresco's lush landscapes to distant St. Martin's, where the historical marker of the 1967 Torrey Canyon oil tanker disaster serves as a subtle reminder of environmental fragility. The Trail Planner blog recommends timing your hike to catch sunrise or sunset from Bryher's elevated points, creating unforgettable photography opportunities across the water.