Travel to a small island off the Cornish coast and revel in the freedom and tranquility of deserted beaches and rugged cliffs.
The island of St. Martin’s packs a lot into a relatively small area. In addition to the fine sandy beaches and spectacular cliff-top walks are a vineyard, tearooms and a flower farm. Play on the sands, enjoy watersports and admire the sensational scenery of this 2-mile (3.2-kilometre) long island.
St. Martin’s is one of the five inhabited islands of the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago off the coast of the Cornish peninsula. As you approach by boat, look out for the distinctive red and white Daymark. This circular granite tower was erected in 1683 and was used as a navigational aid by sailors of the time.
Head north to the remote Great Bay for a secluded beach experience or examine the creatures in the rock pools of Lawrence’s Bay. One of the most popular swimming spots on the isle is Par Beach, while the quirkily named Bread and Cheese Cove is also a good spot to stop and relax. For more invigorating activities, embark on a snorkeling excursion with seals or trek along trails on the windswept northern coastline.
The three main settlements on the island are Higher Town, Middle Town and Lower Town, with Higher Town having the most facilities. Come here to browse the crafts, jewellery and artwork at the North Farm Gallery before eating a hearty portion of freshly caught fish from the renowned Adam’s Fish and Chips.
While you are on the island, inhale the scents of fields of narcissi at Churchtown Farm and take a tour of St. Martin's Vineyard and Winery. Visit its south-facing slopes and learn about the production of its white wines.
To get here, you first need to reach St. Mary’s, the largest of the Scilly Isles. You can do this by air or by taking the boat from Penzance in Cornwall. From St. Mary’s, transfer to a connecting boat for the trip to St. Martin’s. Journeys between the various islands are short, so it’s easy to go island hopping during your stay.
