LIFESTYLE
escape
AN ISLAND
Why leave the country when you can book a break in paradise just past Land’s End?
é ABOVE Explore the sands of Scilly
BELOW You could be forgiven for thinking you’re in the Mediterranean
I
magine an island holiday without going abroad: the magical Isles of Scilly are just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, close enough to visit for a short autumn break to make the most of the last hints of summer. Scilly is the most south-westerly point of England and whether you sail along Cornwall’s amazing coastline on Scillonian III erry or y ybus you will be on the islands in time for lunch. Greeted on arrival with white sand beaches and clear blue seas, you could be forgiven for thin in you had o n on hau rather than a 15-minute hop from Land’s End, 30 minutes from Newquay or 60 minutes from Exeter. Even the ferry journey from Penzance takes less than three hours! Late summer and autumn is a special time on Scilly – quieter and wilder. The islands are ablaze with wonderful warm hues, the wildlife thriving with activity and it is still warm enough for days spent outdoors enjoying the spectacular scenery. At this time of the year you find somethin or oodies, a ers, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone seeking a little peace. As the islands are near to the Gulf Stream, they are warmer than the mainland
which makes them a haven for migrating birds and ear y o ers Once you set foot on the islands you begin to explore a world of few roads and even fewer cars. Life here moves at a more natural pace and is as relaxing as the rhythm of the tides. You might choose to ramble from the beach to a bar where you can enjoy slow-cooked, local food or you might just sit and watch one of the most awesome sunsets you will ever see. Discovering the delights of these sand-fringed islands will help to recharge your batteries and if you want to reconnect with nature, the rey sea s, pu ns and red s uirre s i be pleased to guide your way. If it’s peace and quiet you’re looking for it’s never hard to find a tide s ept beach here yours are the only footprints in the sand. In the evenings, co apse in ront o the fire in one o the oca pubs and try some local delicacies, before heading outside with a blanket. The islands have virtually no light pollution and on a clear night the incredible dark skies allow you to see the Milky Way in all its splendour. Moving between the islands is simply a matter of catching one of the inter-island
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