3 days ago
The most beautiful UK islands for a walkable holiday revealed including one with Caribbean-like beaches
Want to ditch the rental car and explore on foot this summer?
Luckily, you won't have to travel far to do so, as these five stunning island destinations are the perfect locations for a walking holiday.
'Some of the most beautiful and rugged islands lie just off the UK mainland, offering the perfect setting for discovery on foot,' say the experts at HF Holidays, who picked the list.
'Each destination blends wild natural beauty, rich local culture and a real sense of escape, all just a short ferry or flight from home.'
The Isle of Man
A self-governing island between England and Ireland, the Isle of Man is officially one of the UK's prettiest spots for a walking holiday, according to HF Holidays.
The experts say: 'Almost equidistant between England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the Isle of Man is a UNESCO Biosphere Region of fascinating history and phenomenal coast and countryside.'
Their recommended walking route heads along the Raad ny Foilan (Way of Gulf) trail.
Highlights include the 'winding streets of Castletown', the 'soft golden sands of Port Erin Beach' and a ride on the historic tram between Douglas and Laxey.
Anglesey
An island off the Welsh mainland's northwest coast, Anglesey is the ideal destination for birdwatchers.
HF Holidays' experts say: 'The island boasts wild walking trails, sandy beaches and ancient castles.
'[It's] renowned for being one of the best places in Britain for birdwatching, with thousands of rare bird species flocking to its scenic shores every year.'
The company's recommended route includes a visit to picturesque Llanddwyn Island and the 19th century South Stack Lighthouse.
Mull & Iona
A pair of gorgeous islands in Scotland's Inner Hebrides, HF Holidays recommends combining visits to both Mull and Iona for a walking holiday.
The experts explain: 'Adored for their breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife, and peaceful feel, the stunning islands of Mull and Iona are located amongst the Inner Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland.'
The company's trip gives holidaymakers the chance to explore the islands 'long after the day-trippers have left' and combines it with another island Staffa.
Highlights on the route include Staffa's 'towering basalt columns' and the chance to spot sea eagles, whales, seat otters and seals.
Isle of Wight
A favourite of Queen Victoria, the Isle of Wight off the south coast of England, is a dreamy spot for a walking holiday.
'The Isle of Wight tempts with golden sand beaches, rolling green hills, dramatic white cliffs, ancient woodland and charming seaside resorts,' say the HF Holidays' experts.
While the island's beaches are sure to be a highlight for any walkers, the Isle of Wight has many other must-see attractions.
Tourists can pay a visit to Queen Victoria's island home, Osborne House, which offers a spectacular glimpse into the monarch's life.
Channel Islands
HF Holidays recommend combining the Channel Islands, an archipelago off the coast of France.
The experts say: 'Blessed with better-than-average weather than mainland UK, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm offer awe-inspiring coastal walks, white-sand beaches and seaside resorts fit to rival those found in Europe.'
Highlights of a trip to the Channel Island include Herm's 'Caribbean-like Shell Beach' and exploring St Peter Port in Guernsey.
Walkers will also get the chance to learn about Alderney's World War II past.
If you're wanting an even longer walk, along the South West Coast Path, you'll be sure to see some stunning beaches.
We recently revealed ten that will be featured in Gillian Anerson and Jason Isaacs' new movie, The Salt Path, out now.
