St Mary's loop

The St Mary's loop is approximately 10.2 km (6.3 miles) long. While it can be completed in about 39 minutes of continuous cycling, most visitors take longer to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery and various points of interest. Plan for a more relaxed pace to fully experience the island.

Yes, the St Mary's loop is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. It features largely traffic-free lanes, quiet roads, and gentle slopes. There is one notable steepest hill near the Golf Club leading up to Bants Carn, but overall, it's a relaxed and enjoyable ride for all fitness levels.

The terrain on the St Mary's loop is primarily paved, consisting of largely traffic-free lanes and quiet roads. While mostly gentle, there are some undulating sections, including the steepest hill on the island near the Golf Club. Some segments may also include unpaved or cobbled sections, adding to the island's charm.

You can easily rent a bike directly on St Mary's. A convenient option is St Mary's Bike Hire, which is well-located for accessing the island's cycling routes.

The route offers breathtaking views and several points of interest. Highlights include the distinctive Porth Hellick Burial Chamber, Bants Carn (offering great views after the climb), Watermill Cove, Loaded Camel Rock, Old Town Bay, Pelistry Beach, Peninnis Head Lighthouse, Porth Hellick Bay, and Porthcressa Beach. You'll experience rugged coastlines, sandy bays, and flower-rich coastal heaths.

Yes, there are several lovely spots to stop for a break or refreshments. Juliet's Garden Restaurant & Bar is a great option for a meal or drink with a view. You'll also find other cafes and pubs, particularly around Hugh Town and Old Town Bay, perfect for a break.

St Mary's is the main island and the arrival point for most visitors, making the loop easily accessible. If arriving by ferry, the Rat Island Quay – Scillonian III Ferry Terminal is a key access point. As the island has minimal traffic, parking for cars is limited, but the route is designed for cycling and easily started from Hugh Town or any point along the loop.

While the St Mary's loop is generally welcoming, specific rules for dogs on cycling routes can vary. It's best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or near wildlife. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with cycling and consider local signage regarding dog access on beaches and in specific areas.

The Isles of Scilly benefit from a mild climate, making cycling enjoyable for much of the year. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) often offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular but can be busier. Always check the local weather forecast before you go.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the St Mary's loop or to access the Isles of Scilly National Landscape. The island's roads and trails are freely accessible. However, you will need to arrange transport to the Isles of Scilly, typically via the Scillonian III ferry or by air.

Yes, the St Mary's loop intersects with and follows sections of several other paths on the island. Notable intersecting trails include the Porthcressa Promenade, The Promenade, Mill Hill, Newford Lane, Branksea Close, The Rookery, Porthcressa Terrace, Old Quay, Mermaid Slip, Lower Moors Nature Trail, Parsons Field, Trench Lane, Pelistry Lane, Watermill Lane, King Edward's Road, Rocky Hill Lane, Sally Port, Green Lane, Holy Vale Lane, and the Garrison Walls (The Battery Walk).

Cycling the St Mary's loop offers a truly unique and serene experience. The island is renowned for its largely traffic-free roads, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without constant vehicle interruption. It's common for bikes to be left unlocked due to the island's safety, and the absence of many directional signs, combined with the occasional shared road with golf buggies, contributes to a distinctive, almost 'back in time' adventure. It's an idyllic way to explore the island's diverse landscapes at your own pace.