There are many self-catering cottages dotted around the
Falkland Islands which make excellent destinations for weekend getaways
from Stanley, or maybe for visitors returning to the Islands wanting
to really travel off the beaten track ...
North Arm This remote settlement is one of four
settlements in the area known as Lafonia and is one of the largest
sheep farms in the Falklands; a visit here is a real opportunity
to experience traditional camp life in the Falklands. For those
with off-road driving capabilities (not permitted with hire vehicles
so a vehicle with driver guide is recommended) a stay at some of
the outside/shepherds houses at North West Arm, Fanny Cove or Danson
Harbour will provide the ultimate get away from it all experience
with excellent wildlife, walking and beachcombing. From these houses
it is possible to explore the wildlife rich area of Bull Point.
Gentoo penguins and sea lions can be seen on the sandy beaches around
the Point, whilst Magellanic penguins, Black-necked swans and the
usual selection of geese may also be encountered on the greens and
ponds slightly further inland. Dolphins are often seen offshore.
North Arm settlement also has a couple of self-catering cottages
for those that prefer not to be quite so isolated. This area provides
an excellent opportunity for trekking tours, camping out at a different
house each night.
Port San Carlos In the northwest of East Falkland, some
two hours drive from Stanley, or less by plane, Port San Carlos
offers magnificent scenery, fishing on the San Carlos River and
fine selection of wildlife at Paloma Beach and Fanning Head, and
further afield at Cape Dolphin.
There are two options for accommodation at this destination. A self-catering
cottage operated by Smylies Farm can sleep up to 8 people in one
double and two triple rooms. Race Point Farm, also operating out
of Port San Carlos settlement (sometimes known as KC locally), offer
full board accommodation, and in the summer a rare opportunity to
do some horse-riding Falklands style. San Carlos Just over two hours drive from Stanley
by road, San Carlos became a household name during the 1982 Conflict
as the place where the British Task Force first landed, and today
is the site of the British Cemetery which overlooks San Carlos Water
(dubbed Bomb Alley after the concentrated Argentine air attacks
on the British fleet). There is a small museum containing photographs
and relics from 1982, as well as a display prepared by Falklands
Conservation about their work and the Islands wildlife, and a section
about rural life in the Falklands prior to 1982.
Two self-catering cottages operated by Kingsford Valley Farm offer
cosy retreats from which to explore this area.
A newly built all-weather track over the mountains allows access
to Port San Carlos as well.
Volunteer
Point Full-day guided excursion in 4x4 vehicle.
Approximately a 2¼ hour drive will get you to the white sandy
beach and turquoise waters of Volunteer Point, a destination with
almost a Caribbeanesque feel to it, but the King, Gentoo and Magellanic
penguins will bring you back to the Falklands. In addition to the
largest accessible King penguin colony in the Islands there is a
host of other wildlife to be seen along the beach and on the lagoons,
as well as spectacular scenery as you traverse the north of East
Falkland. Alternatively enjoy the superb photographic
opportunities that the tranquillity and great light that the evening
and early morning will provide at Volunteer Point … basic
full board accommodation is available at the Wardens Cottage for
individual and very small groups allowing visitors to overnight
at Volunteer Point.
Port Stephens Explore the south-west of the
Falkland Islands from the comfort of Port Stephens Farm Cottage.
The cottage sleeps 5 people in 2 bedrooms and provides all the amenities
of a self-catering accommodation and meals cam be provided on request.
Wood Cove, just an hours scenic coastal walk from the cottage provides
access to Rockhopper and Gentoo penguins. Further around the coastline
lies the strange rock formations known as Indian Village. Calm Head,
about two hours walk from the settlement, has superb views of the
jagged shoreline and powerful South Atlantic.
Combine this destination with Roy Cove (Crooked Inlet Farm) to provide
a West Falkland Discovery itinerary!
Little Chartres On the road between
Port Howard and Fox Bay, Little Chartres offers the ultimate in
Falklands hospitality under two thousand acres of sky. There is
excellent fishing literally at the bottom of the garden in the Chartres
River - one of the Falklands best trout fishing rivers. 4x4 tours
to some of the neighbouring farms and wildlife spots, or walking
tours closer to home are also on offer. This is an excellent destination
for children with a playground and plenty of wholesome home cooking.
