Discover the rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Isles of Scilly, with a talk from the head of the isles’ renowned subtropical gardens
The Isles of Scilly are loved for their spectacular scenery,
lush botanic gardens and white-sand beaches.
On this six-day trip you'll find out why the Isles of Scilly are
considered one of the UK's most beautiful locations. You'll visit
several of the islands' most intriguing locations, including the
rugged coastlines of Bryher, the quaint harbours of St Martin's,
and unspoilt waters off the coast of St Agnes, where wildlife
abounds.
A true highlight of your trip will be a visit to the exceptional
sub-tropical Tresco Abbey Garden, which is often described as 'Kew
without the glass', where you'll witness some 2,000 specimens from
across the southern hemisphere flourishing around the ruins of a
Benedictine Abbey.
You'll learn more about these colourful gardens at a special
dinner with the garden's curator, Mike Nelhams, who'll give an
exclusive talk about his work preserving the vast array of plants
found here.
There's a wide range of wonderful wildlife to be spotted on the
Isles of Scilly, with many species that can't be seen anywhere else
in the UK. You'll be able to spot some of these on a wildlife
cruise from St Agnes, where you will look out for puffins, Manx
shearwaters and guillemots, whilst also hoping for dolphins,
porpoises and sunfish.
July 2024 departure: You'll be based at cosy
Tregarthen's Hotel right on the water's edge on St
Mary's, which will serve as your base for the trip. You'll be able
to gaze out to sea as you dine in the restaurant, lounge or
terrace.
September 2024 departures: You'll be based at the Star
Castle Hotel on St Mary's. This historic hotel dates back
to 1593 and has a heated indoor swimming pool and peaceful,
secluded gardens. You might even get to sample seafood caught by
the owner from the hotel's boat.
Please note this is a busy and full itinerary, so a good
degree of mobility and fitness is required to get the most out of
this trip, which involves lots of walking and getting in and out of
boats.
THE JOURNAL COLLECTION OFFER!
Subscribers can claim a three night pre tour stay in St
Austell and Penzace with guided tours on day 2 and 3 including a
visit to the Eden Project, Charlestown and the Lost Gardens of
Heligan and a post tour one night stay in Penzance. Ts&Cs
apply. Subscriber extras are not valid in conjunction with any
other offers or promotions.