If you’re looking for a remote and unique destination with incredible natural beauty and wildlife, consider the Falkland Islands. As the world’s most southern capital city, just off the Argentina coast, Stanley is unexpectedly very British. Overall, this British Overseas Territory offers travelers the special opportunity to experience a blend of wild landscapes in a subantarctic climate with a cup of tea and scone. I enjoyed a day on an independent walking tour discovering Stanley Falkland Island highlights.
History and Background of Falkland Islands
This archipelago of more than 750 islands, near the southern tip of Argentina is a “Gateway to Antarctica.” It’s also a remote wildlife sanctuary for especially birdwatchers. For example, there are albatrosses and 5 species of penguins, such as, Magellanic, Gentoo, King and Macaroni on the island. Other bird species are plentiful, such as, the black-crowned night-herons, long-tailed meadowlark, two-banded plovers and oystercatchers. Plus, there are whales, along with seals and sea lion colonies along the shores.
There are no trees native to the area. However, there’s a prolific growth of grass species, for example, Tussac Grass. Overall, there are 350 species of flora, with the popular “Pale Maiden” as the national symbol. The climate is subpolar oceanic with relatively mild winters, yet almost close to being a Tundra Climate. Thus, the temperatures remains relatively even throughout the year with strong westerlies.
Falkland War in 1982
This 10-week undeclared war ignited between Argentina and UK in 1982 over the British Overseas Territories in the South Atlantic. Overall, this included in the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. The British victory sustained the controversial sovereignty of these areas.
Also, for military buffs, there are battlefield sites and monuments to learn about the war in the islands. Unfortunately, about 30,000 land mines were laid here and not all removed. However, there are signs and markings to caution visitors on the land mines that remain here to this day.
Stanley Falkland Islands Highlights – A Walking Tour
Stanley is on the SW coast of East Falkland. This capital city is the most populated area of the 2 main islands with almost 2,500 people. Overall, it is about 3 miles long and only a few blocks widespread along the south bank of Stanley Harbor. Read on to learn about what to do in this unique port.
As the capital city, Stanley is a great hub from which to explore the islands. Curiously, I walked throughout this town before heading to the beaches and shorelines. Because of the summer’s long days, colorful Victorian gardens bloom throughout the community. Firstly, I stopped to see the 1982 Liberation Memorial (above photo). It commemorates all British forces and units that served in the Falklands War. This liberated the Falkland Islanders from the Argentine occupation. Also, near the waterfront on Ross Road is the Christ Church Cathedral. Built in the late 1800’s from local stones and brick, this is the southernmost Anglican cathedral in the world. Additionally, there stands an iconic whale bone arch in front of the church.
Stanley Harbor and Gypsy Cove – White-Sandy Beaches, Penguins, Seals and Whales
The stunning Stanley Harbor is right there full of natural wonders. Gypsy Cove, just 6.5 km (4 mi) from town, is part of the Cape Pembroke peninsula, a National Nature Reserve. Overall, the white sandy beaches combined with the vibrant aquamarine waters make stunning scenery.
However, I walked along boardwalks and beaches mesmerized by the scenery and enjoyed many Magellanic Penguins up close and personal. These black and white medium-sized penguins grow up to 76 cm tall. Within inches I saw many of these adorable creatures, even noticing the mottled, pink markings on the feet and eyes of the younger ones. They are aka “Jackass Penguins” because of their braying sounds. Furthermore, the Magellanic penguins breed along the shores, as the only penguin species that nests underground in burrows.
Additionally, about 3 hours north of Stanley at Volunteer Point is the largest colony of King penguins on Falkland Islands. For many people, this is the highlight of their visit here.
Shipwrecks and Horses
Due to the strong Westerlies of the area, there are shipwrecks to be seen. I saw at least 3 shipwrecks, for example, the most well-known Lady Elizabeth in Whalebone Cove. Also, I saw many groups of beautiful horses grazing in the grasslands along the coast with their long manes blowing in the wind. Thus, horseback riding is another popular way to explore these beautiful islands.
Overall, Stanley Falkland Islands Highlights
Even though I only spent about 5 hours walking and exploring the Port Stanley area, it seemed like a lovely dream eternally embedded in my memories. Every moment here brought me wonder and joy coming from our natural, pristine world. Also, calling all nature enthusiasts, put Falkland Islands at the top of your bucket list not to be missed!
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