It is the environment that makes the Isles of Scilly special. Our location means that we are surrounded by cool, clean, amazingly clear waters, unaffected by river or stream runoff. The underlying rock is granite, a white rock and the reason why we have incredible white sandy beaches.

So, what makes up the Isles of Scilly? Well, they are an archipelago of some 150 islands and rocks, lying 25 miles south west of Cornwall. Five are inhabited St Marys the largest, Tresco, St Martins, St Agnes and Bryher. The climate sets them apart from mainland Britain and dictates the landscape that characterises Scilly. The air is unusually humid, thanks to the vast Atlantic Ocean and very pure, due to a lack of airborne pollution. Furthermore, the islands enjoy plentiful sunshine, with more sunshine hours than London.

As a consequence, the landscape is home to a tremendous variety of rare plant and flower species, many not seen on the UK mainland. Exotic flowers, palm trees and herbs are often seen on a walk around the islands. The sea is also home to rare corals and sea fans as well as vast kelp forests and sea grass. Wildlife in turn flourishes, with many important bird species able to colonise in safety. Species, such as puffins, as well as marine animals, notably seals, prove to be quite an attraction!

Add to this mix, the archaeological and historical landmarks, the result of over 4000 years of human settlement and it is easy to see why Scilly has over time, been referred to as the Fortunate Isles. Thankfully, they also enjoy a protected status, so that the environment can be proactively managed and preserved for future generations of visitors, who can enjoy the timelessness and beauty that exists here.

Over half the land area is designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, the whole area is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the coastal landscape been apportioned Heritage Coast status. Unfarmed land is managed by the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, who look to manage the landscape, as well as educate people as to its unique qualities.