Discover Scilly’s active, outdoorsy side – perfect for young at heart couples and friends looking for a healthy, adventurous holiday! 

The arrival in June 2016 of the international Ötillö Swim Run World Series qualifier to the Isles of Scilly (Ötillö meaning “island to island” in Swedish) spawned a new sport on the archipelago. Swim Run. 

And ever since, in increasing numbers, islanders and visitors have been dusting off their wetsuits – or braving it in skins - and embracing our exceptionally clear (and cool!) waters to the full.  Scilly adventurers have always enjoyed a good yomp up to the Daymark on St Martin’s and down to the smugglers’ hideout (Pipers Hole) on Tresco – the stunning natural beauty is second to none; it’s just these days, some combine it with a salty, spine-tingling dip in the ocean.

Scilly’s waters are pristine – the perfect environment to swim wild and free amongst the exceptional sea life between the uninhabited beaches and islands. Look into the shallows for the impressive kelp beds or for old field markings (before sea levels rose) and make virgin footprints in the powder white sand.

Eco-friendly thrill seekers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to swim with Scilly’s seals over on the Eastern Isles, either (Seal Snorkelling Adventures organises daily trips in season), or go bouldering and coasteering off Peninnis Head on St Mary’s (with Kernow Coasteering).

Or you could hire yourself a kayak and paddle between uninhabited islands, or out to England’s final frontier at Bishop Rock, 4 miles west Scilly. (Make sure you check sea conditions first.) Admire the majestic lighthouse, standing 49 metres high and built by brave hearts, exposed as it is to the full force of the Atlantic Ocean. 

And, if qualified, why not treat yourself to an organised deep dive to see some of Scilly’s eerie shipwrecks too?

Then maybe in the early evening, head out into the ocean at sunset to catch and tag rare blue sharks (their population numbers are monitored off shore), with St Mary’s Boatman and wildlife photographer Joe Pender, his boat “Sapphire” often accompanied by bow-riding dolphins.

And then comes the spectacular night… Nowhere in England will you find darker skies, so sit atop a rocky outcrop and await Scilly’s incredible festival of sparkling stars. 

Find your own island adventure by checking out our outdoor activities and browse our accommodation options for your perfect summer escape.