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St Helena Island – a far-flung adventure will soon only be a short flight away
This month marks the one year countdown to the opening of the first airport on the island of St Helena, until now only accessible by sea. The opening of the airport in February 2016 will bring to an end the isolation of the inhabitants of this British Overseas Territory, located in the South Atlantic Ocean 1,200 miles off the coast of Africa and served by one of the last working Royal Mail Ships, the RMS St Helena.
It is also good news for travellers who are looking for an unspoiled and far-flung destination, a bucket-list action adventure. From its fern forests to volcanic terrain, lush pastures and striking coastal landscape, there is natural beauty at every turn; St Helena is a birdwatcher's paradise and the island boasts at least 40 species of plants unknown anywhere else in the world. Its remarkable history, not least of all the Napoleonic connections, is rich and diverse and activities from diving and fishing to hiking offer plentiful ways to enjoy the unspoilt isle.
A day on an island far away…
Start your day with an invigorating hike to Lot’s Wife’s Ponds. This is one of the 21 Post Box walks on the island, and the most popular coastal walk.
After a drive though the lush green interior of the island, stop off at High Knoll Fort for a taste of the rich history that is an integral part of the St Helena experience. Built in 1798, High Knoll is a superb example of military defensive structures of its time.
After enjoying traditional St Helena fishcakes for lunch, visit Longwood House. Napoleon’s last residence, and the house where he died, is now a museum owned by the French government.
As the sun sets, it’s time to cruise around the island and perhaps swim with whale sharks or marvel at the antics of the resident pod of dolphins. Then choose your evening’s entertainment – be mesmerized by the sparkling night sky, enjoy a meal with new-found St Helenian friends or dance the night away.
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