Travel blogger Marion Collinson (Love Travelling Blog) visited the Isles of Scilly for a summer escape with her son, Simon. Marion experienced some of the very best the islands have to offer, from island-hopping adventures and scenic coastal walks to local food, wildlife encounters and breathtaking sea views. Here’s a look back at her Scillonian adventure, which might just inspire your own.
Marion travelled to the Isles of Scilly on Skybus and stayed at the historic Star Castle Hotel.
“As we flew south-west, spectacular views of the Cornish coastline unfolded beneath us. Passing over the dramatic cliffs of Land’s End before heading out across the sparkling Atlantic Ocean was unforgettable, and it wasn’t long before the beautiful Isles of Scilly appeared on the horizon.
“We stayed at the wonderful Star Castle Hotel, one of the most iconic places on the Isles of Scilly. Perched high above Hugh Town within the walls of a magnificent star-shaped fortress, the hotel combines centuries of history with luxurious modern comfort.
“Originally built in 1593 under the orders of Queen Elizabeth I to defend the islands against invasion, the fortress has been beautifully transformed into a unique hotel while retaining many of its original features. Guests can choose to stay within the historic castle itself, where individually designed bedrooms are full of character, or in one of the spacious garden suites nestled amongst the beautifully landscaped subtropical gardens.
“We stayed in a Harbour View Garden Suite, and it was simply divine. Spacious and beautifully furnished with a tasteful seaside theme, it offered stunning views across the harbour and provided the perfect peaceful retreat after each day’s adventures.”
A day on Tresco
No trip to Scilly is complete without island hopping, and Marion’s first off-island experience took her to Tresco.
Travelling with St Mary’s Boatmen’s Association, the short crossing is an opportunity to spot wildlife, including seals and seabirds. Marion visited the world-famous Tresco Abbey Garden, home to an impressive collection of subtropical plants gathered from across the globe.
“As we wandered through its winding pathways, we were amazed by the sheer variety of exotic plants thriving outdoors. Towering palm trees, giant succulents, colourful proteas, vibrant South African flowers, Australian eucalyptus and rare species from South America all flourished side by side, creating an almost tropical paradise.”
Following her visit to the gardens, Marion headed to Ruin Beach Café for lunch, taking in the sea views while enjoying a taste of local produce.
The afternoon offered the chance to experience the coastal path towards Old Grimsby.
“The walk itself was every bit as enjoyable as the destination, with sweeping sea views, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters accompanying us for much of the route.”
Discovering St Martin’s
The following day, Marion travelled to St Martin’s, known for its stunning beaches and slow pace. The crossing on a St Mary’s Boatmen’s Association inter-island boat takes around 30 minutes.
“From Lower Town, we wandered towards Great Bay, taking our time to breathe in the wonderfully fresh sea air as we walked along the beautiful white sandy beach. It felt like stepping back into my childhood as I couldn’t resist bending down to collect shells scattered across the sand. We also spent time exploring the fascinating tidal pools before continuing our walk along to Higher Town.”
In the afternoon, Marion wandered through the quiet lanes to arrive at St Martin’s Vineyard, which was first established in 1996 and is one of the most south-westerly vineyards in the UK.
Owners Holly and James welcomed Marion for a self-guided tour through the vineyard’s signposted trails, sharing insights into the history of winemaking on the islands and their commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.
The experience finished with a tasting flight of homegrown wines and panoramic views across the Eastern Isles. The walk from the vineyard to Higher Town Quay takes around ten minutes, offering one last opportunity to soak up the island scenery before boarding the return inter-island boat to St Mary’s.
Marion and Simon rounded off the day with dinner at The Atlantic Inn followed by an evening stroll to Porthcressa Beach.
Wildlife encounters at sea
On her final morning before returning to the mainland, Marion joined a wildlife safari with the St Mary’s Boatmen’s Association around the outer-islands and lighthouse.
These excursions are popular experiences available in Scilly, with routes varying according to tides and conditions. Exploring the waters around the archipelago provided opportunities to encounter seabirds, marine wildlife and some of the islands’ most remote and dramatic landscapes. Marion caught a glimpse of seals, puffins and guillemots.
Afterwards, Marion enjoyed a final wander through Hugh Town, picking up a traditional Cornish pasty from Hugh Street Café and browsing the island’s independent galleries and shops before heading home via Skybus.
Marion reflects on her Scilly break:
“What an unforgettable four days we had enjoyed on the Isles of Scilly. Every day had brought something new to discover. We’d enjoyed spectacular coastal walks, beautiful beaches, visited a world-famous garden, spotted wildlife and dined on some of the freshest seafood imaginable.”
Whether you’re planning a short break, a longer holiday or seeking a destination that feels a world away from everyday life, the Isles of Scilly offer experiences at every turn. We’d like to thank Marion for joining us and sharing her island adventure with her audience.
Inspired by Marion’s island escape? Discover the beauty of the Isles of Scilly for yourself.