The beauty of the Isles of Scilly is by far best enjoyed with a walk along the coast. Whichever island you find yourself on, the contrast of rugged rocks interspersed with white, sandy beaches and stunning views over to the neighbouring islands will not disappoint and the ocean breeze is so energising. We started our walk at Porthmellon beach on St Mary’s and followed the coastal path towards Juliet’s Garden Restaurant. The views along this stretch back over Hugh Town were just gorgeous looking out over fields of agapanthus flowers.

We followed the path as it turned North East through a carpet of heather and gorse and over rocky cliffs. The weather was fantastic, brightening the views over towards Samson, Bryher and Tresco.

At the North West tip of St Mary’s (the last before you get to Bar Point) we came to the Halangy Iron Age Village. I love that you can see the outlines of rooms and dwellings where a community lived so long ago, but also how the purple heather has now made the village it’s home. From the sea you can actually make out an even older settlement closer to the beach where the villagers would have lived before sea levels rose. At the top of the village is the Bronze Age Bant’s Carn Burial Chamber and turning back towards the sea the views over the village below and across to Tresco are spectacular.

We made our way to Bar Point where the beaches are secluded and quiet. We sat to eat a packed lunch and take in the view over to St Martins. My friend went for a swim while I paddled on the shoreline and we saw seals in the sea. One curious seal really close to the beach which was amazing.

Heading back towards home we broke away from the coastal path and walked in a general southerly direction along country lanes, stopping off at Strudel Up Country for a well earned treat.

After our fill of Strudel and Küchen we wandered back home to get ready for dinner of locally caught fish with foraged herbs – but more on that in another post!