Forget the Maldives or St Lucia – there’s a British destination that’s much closer to home that could be mistaken for an island in the Indian Ocean or the Caribbean
A travel influencer claims she’s found the country’s “best kept secret” – and it’ll delight those after a refreshing break in the sun. Rather than searching high and low for the best holiday deals in the Caribbean, one place in the country is just as delightful for a day trip or longer. Charlotte Jacobsen, the face of CJExplores on social media, says it is so stunning that “you’d never believe was in the UK”.
It’s found just miles away from the Cornwall coast, and has incredible white sands and blue seas. That’s not to mention the tropical climate and exotic flora. YouTuber Charlotte, who runs CJExplores with her husband Cory, says the Isles of Scilly are “breathtaking”.
They are reachable through a select few distinctive methods. Whilst tourists can take flights from Newquay, Land’s End or Exeter Airport, there’s a more extraordinary and considerably more rewarding transport option.
A picturesque ferry journey from Penzance takes you on a voyage from the mainland with incredible views and is an experience in itself. Charlotte explained the voyage from the mainland requires approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Charlotte said during a TikTok clip: “Welcome to the Isles of Scilly – home to white sand beaches, sub tropical gardens and breathtaking walking trails.”
Viewers appeared to share her enthusiasm. One commented: “That looks like heaven, why have I never heard of this place!”
Another remarked: “I’m Cornish and I still haven’t been but it’s on my list!” Charlotte responded: “It’s so worth the visit!!”
Throughout the ferry journey, travellers can glimpse Cornwall’s most celebrated attractions, including Saint Michael’s Mount, the Minack Theatre and Land’s End.
Charlotte added in the video: “Keep your eyes peeled too – sea birds and dolphins often join the journey. It’s all part of the adventure and that’s how you reach one of the UK’s best kept secrets.”
However, once there, guests will discover a temperate climate that enables tropical vegetation to thrive.”
The internationally renowned Tresco Abbey Garden houses over 20,000 plant varieties from across the globe. This is thanks to the Gulf Stream, a warming Atlantic Ocean current that carries heated water to Northern Europe from Central America.
Tourists can discover some of Britain’s most spectacular coastlines and azure waters that could make the Maldives jealous. The Visit Isles of Scilly website describes the island chain as feeling “like a world away – untouched, unhurried, and unbelievably beautiful”.
It continues: “Life here is simpler, gentler, and refreshingly slow. No crowds, no rush – just the space to do as much or as little as you please.
“Whether you’re exploring rugged coastlines, wandering white-sand beaches, or simply soaking in the tranquillity, Scilly promises a magical escape you’ll never forget.”
How to get there
While the Penzance ferry is both the most reliable and unique mode of transport, there’s another quirky way to reach the Isles of Scilly. The Penzance Helicopter whisks you off to St Mary’s and Tresco, offering the quickest route from the mainland.
The journey takes a mere 15 minutes but will set you back between £90 and £200 per person. Day trip return tickets on the Scillionian III ferry start from a bargain £35 per person but can skyrocket to as much as £589 depending on the season and travel class.
Skybus flights from Land’s End operate all year round, with prices ranging from £26 to £210 and a flight time of roughly 20 minutes. From Newquay, flights start at around £35 and take half an hour, while Exeter flights take an hour and fares kick off at about £40.