TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE

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Words by Poorvi Singhal

Of all the things that take a backseat amid the cost-of-living crisis, vacations are definitely the first to be sacrificed. But does that mean we bid adieu to one of the few pleasures of life that keep us sane? Absolutely not, because we have staycations to the rescue.

A study commissioned by BLVD hotel in Liverpool revealed that 52% of the 2,000 polling Brits prefer staycations to international travel in the post-pandemic world. As warmer days await, we cannot wait to snorkel in the blue seas, or even get a fresh tan.

As dreamy as it sounds, we somehow associate all our sunny, splashy escapades with the Greek or Canary islands. But have we explored all the scenic islands at home which don’t require breaking the bank and getting on a muscle-scrunching flight?

The clear answer is no. That’s why GORP has curated a list of our top five favourite islands in the UK and Ireland for your next sandy adventure.

The Isles of Scilly, Cornwall

A beautiful expanse of whitesand beaches, the Isles of Scilly makes for the perfect summer staycation with its rich fauna, seabirds, seals, coastal paths, and indie craft shops. The best part? Even in peak holiday months, the island isn’t as busy as the mainland and you can get a piece of Scilly just for yourself. Plus, when you’re holidaying in Scilly, you’re in an entire group of islands, some inhabited and others abandoned. Why stop at just one?

To get respite from the heat, why not dive into the clear blue waters in the many sheltered coves. If you would rather be on the sea than in the sea, kayaking is the way to go until you reach Bishop Rock Lighthouse.

The Isle of Skye, Scotland

With 50 miles of rustic landscapes, the Isle of Skye is a haven for all outdoor fanatics like ourselves who enjoy climbing, hiking, water sports, and wildlife spotting.

Trust the Cuillin Hills and the Trotternish Ridges to give you an adventurous go at hiking and mountain climbing. There are also great walks for our less-experienced outdoor enthusiasts. When in Skye, keep an eye out for the whitetailed sea eagle, otters, whales, and seals.

While June and July are the hottest months here, you can expect clear blue skies from April to October. Camping is a must if you’re feeling especially adventurous and wish to sleep under the stars. Otherwise, B&Bs and self-catering cottages work great too.

Anglesey, Wales

The biggest island off the coast of Wales, Anglesey, is best known for its dramatic coastline and some of the best beaches in the UK like Porth Wen and Aberffraw Bay. A long walk on the island can win you the most breathtaking looks of uneven cliffs, stretches of golden sand, and the prettiest 19th-century lighthouse – Tŵr Mawr.

When in Anglesey, keep your camera, and more importantly, your eyes, ready for mossy headlands, grassy dunes, scenic lakes, marshes and woodlands.

Explore the waters while windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or you can just bike along the coastline. Choose from guesthouses in quiet harbours, rustic villages and natural landscapes for the best of Welsh hospitality.

The locals are friendly and would often be willing to chat and give recommendations.

Mersea Island, Essex

With evidence of pre-Roman settlements and history brewing from the Mersea Museum, this island is for culture chasers.

If you want to increase your steps, the round the island walk is a popular 13-mile challenge which will take around three hours for seasoned walkers. Not a professional? Cudmore Grove country park in East Mersea is the place for dilly-dallying, playing with dogs or even flying kites!

While Mersea offers plenty of stay options for all budgets, caravans and tents are popular in the spirit of being in the great out there.

And what are we doing here? Anything from boat trips sailing over the Blackwater River, the Crouch and the Colne, water activities and fossil hunting. Yes, finding shark teeth and other remainws is not uncommon in Mersea.

Do check tide times online as this might affect your journey.

Clare Island, Ireland

As you enter the harbour, you’d be spellbound by the majestic sandy beach fit for swimming. What’s also a must-visit is the Granuaile castle, The Cove - a small fishing port, sea cliffs perfect for birdwatching, and the Clare Island Abbey — a series of wall and ceiling paintings.

The Clare Island Art Studio is unmissable with its gallery, workshops and class. And if you’re one with a meditative mind, book a yoga, mindfulness, or cookery session at the Macalla Farm Retreat & Yoga Centre. You can also book a sea safari or hire a bike to add a dash more adventure to your staycation.

Staying at Clare Island means choosing between lighthouse-inspired guesthouses, cottages, rentals and B&Bs.