This hidden gem is the largest of the uninhabited Isles of Scilly, scattered with remains of old cottages.
Situated off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, it’s a beautiful "desert island" with no residents today.
The island has two hills connected by a narrow strip of land, and with pristine white beaches that stretch out at low tide, it feels almost tropical with its bright sands and clear turquoise waters.
A circular walking trail takes you past the haunting ruins of former homes and farms, giving a sense of island life in the past.
Samson and the nearby small islands are a vital habitat for seabirds and unique plant species, especially on South Hill, where you can find tamarisk, elder, and primrose.
Visitors can reach this idyllic spot by boat from St Mary’s harbour, a 25-minute trip, or through an adventurous inter-island ferry ride with a mid-sea transfer.
Some boats may even have you "walk the plank" to reach Bar Point, adding an extra bit of excitement to the journey!
The Isles of Scilly include five inhabited islands, while roughly 140 others remain untouched by people, serving as safe havens for wildlife and seabirds. Some of these islands can be reached by day trips, while many stay completely undisturbed and wild.
The Isles of Scilly were once thought to be a single large landmass before rising sea levels formed the current archipelago.
Recently, Big7 Travel named them among the world’s top islands, praising their coral-fringed beaches, vibrant historic towns, and lush forests.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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