News

The Scilly Isles are a birdwatching paradise and one of the best places in Britain to watch migrant and resident birds.

Saga’s exclusive five-night Birdwatching in the Scilly Isles special interest holiday is led by expert Will Wagstaff, who has more than 30 years’ experience as a wildlife and ornithological guide.

Will, who is Honorary President and Chairman of the Isles of Scilly Bird Group, has also worked on expedition ships and as a conservation officer for the Scilly Isles Wildlife Trust.

Saga’s bespoke holiday, which starts with a flight from Exeter Airport, Will shares his knowledge and love of the islands, the birds and wildlife, during an exciting programme which features five birdwatching tours, plus a talk and daily reviews.

Guests stay on a half-board basis at the Atlantic Hotel, in Hugh Town, in the heart of St Mary’s. The 25-bedroom hotel has lovely views over the harbour and meals are served in the Tides Reach restaurant which boasts locally sourced and freshly prepared food.

The birdwatching programme includes:

Seabird cruise and the Isle of Bryher
Cruise the waters to look out for the puffins, razorbills, guillemots and shearwaters.

Tresco
Spend a full day at family-owned island of Tresco and head for the Great and Abbey Pools, looking out for water birds such as dunlins and plovers. There’s also time to visit the sub-tropical Abbey Gardens, home to 20,000 plant species.

Saint Mary's Island
Discover the largest of the Scilly Isles, following nature trails and exploring the beaches and countryside while looking out for migrant and resident birds.

Agnes Island
Spend a day on the small island of Agnes, a Site of Special Scientific Interest which known for its migratory birds. Tide permitting, guests can walk to the uninhabited island of Gugh, which lies off the east coast.

Evening boat trip
Sail by Annet Island bird sanctuary, home to puffins and other breeding seabirds including Manx shearwaters which have recently started nesting again after a project to facilitate their return.

For details call free on 0800 300 500 or visit saga.co.uk/special-interests

Five nights from £999, departing on Scillonian Ferry from Penzance, on May 13, 2017. Price includes return ferry transfers, all breakfasts and dinners, five birdwatching excursions, a talk and daily reviews, birdwatching host Will Wagstaff and hosting services of the hotel manager, welcome drink, porterage at hotel, optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights or a reduction if not required. There is also the option to fly from from Land's End or Exeter to St Mary's with Skybus for a supplement of £80pp, subject to availability.

Editors: Saga Holidays is the winner of 16 Gold British Travel Awards 2015 including Best for Wildlife & Nature and Best for Special Interests.

Contact PR manager Naomi Thornton at naomi.thornton@saga.co.uk or call 01303 772499

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers aged over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award winning Saga Magazine.