Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Looe Island, also known locally as St George’s Island, is a 27-acre island nature reserve located approximately one mile off the southeastern coast of Cornwall near the town of Looe. The island features rugged rocky shores, coastal scrub, and woodland habitats that support a variety of native birds, marine life, and plant species. Historically, Looe Island has evidence of human use dating back to the Iron Age, with past connections to monastic settlements and smuggling activity. The island is managed by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust as a protected site, focusing on the preservation of its fragile ecosystems and rare seabird colonies. Access to the island is by private boat with guided trips and limited visitor numbers to minimize human impact. Popular activities revolve around wildlife observation—particularly seabirds and seals—and exploring the island’s coastal views. There are no formal trails or facilities on the island, maintaining its wild character, while the surrounding waters attract kayakers and snorkelers interested in Cornwall’s marine biodiversity. Looe Island’s history as a private sanctuary and its current role as a nature reserve make it a special destination for visitors seeking quiet, wildlife-focused excursions near the Cornish coast.
