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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
National
Emma Grimshaw

How to travel from Bristol to South West islands dubbed a 'mini-Maldives'

A collection of beautiful islands in the South West has been dubbed a 'mini-Maldives'. Isles of Scilly is only a short flight away from Bristol and Aspects Holidays described the location as a ‘mini-Maldives nestled off the Cornish coast’.

The area is made up of five inhabited islands, St. Mary's, Tresco, St. Martin's, Bryher, and St. Agnes, as well as numerous uninhabited islets and rocks. Boasting crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and rugged coastline, the islands are perfect for those who love the outdoors, reports MyLondon.

And to travel to the paradise locations, it's only a short train and plane ride from Bristol. Sadly, Bristol Airport doesn't serve the location directly, so travellers would have to go from Exeter Airport, where direct flights take one hour and cost around £200.

READ MORE: The iconic 'Bristol' village with a historic pub and scenic walks

St. Mary's Island is the largest of the Isles of Scilly and offers a range of accommodation options, from B&Bs to luxury hotels. There is also a castle and ancient burial ground, which walkers love to explore.

One reviewer said: "Hidden away is this beautiful history of the island. It’s a good walk but well worth a visit , there are plenty of signs to all the sites and plenty of lovely locals who will point you in the right direction."

AT RISK: Giant's Castle, Isles of Scilly (Scheduled Monument) (Historic England)

Another wrote: "The views across to the off islands are stunning. Halangy Ancient Village is a wonderful place to rest and chill out listening to the chug of the passenger launches motoring around the islands and the ever present bird song."

Tresco Island is famous for its stunning gardens, which are home to a range of exotic plants and flowers from around the world. The gardens are open to visitors all year round and are a must-see attraction.

One reviewer wrote: "Beautiful grounds, lots to see. The plants and views are amazing , a definite must see if you travel to tresco. Amazing climate."

Another said: "Beautiful gardens up a hillside with unusual plants . The huge succulents were amazing. Lots of colour even late in the year. Well worth a visit and is a gentle stroll from the boat landing."

While St. Martin's Island is known for its stunning beaches, which are some of the best in the UK. The island homes a range of wildlife, including seals and seabirds, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

Pi the humpback whale has returned to waters in the Isles of Scilly after nearly two years (Gareth Tibbs/Above & Below Imagery)

Read more:

  • The secret Cotswold village half an hour from Bristol the tourists don't know about
  • 7 of the prettiest villages near Bristol to visit in 2023
  • The timewarp village near Bristol where Harry Potter and Downton Abbey were filmed
  • £2 Bristol bus ride leads to National Trust estate in pretty village
  • 'Prettiest' village in the Cotswolds with links to Japanese royals
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