The UK's beautiful 'holy island' offers visitors a serene off-the-grid retreat

Not far from Tenby, Wales, lies Caldey Island, a serene and secluded retreat where time seems to stand still.

Accessible only by boat, this small holy island offers visitors a chance to escape the trappings of modern life and immerse themselves in nature and history.

From the moment you step onto the boat from Tenby, you’ll feel as if you’re leaving the hustle and bustle of the mainland behind.

Caldey Island is a place where public transport, supermarkets, and social media influencers are nonexistent, replaced instead by breathtaking views, peaceful walking paths, and a sense of timelessness.

The island’s rich history stretches back over 1,500 years, and its spiritual significance continues today, with a community of Cistercian monks - known as Trappists - calling it home.

The journey to Caldey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.

Boats run from Tenby every 20 minutes, Monday to Friday, between 10am and 5pm, although services are weather-dependent, and rough seas can cancel trips.

Once on the island, the most striking sight is undoubtedly the monastery. This Grade II listed building, with its white façade and terracotta roofs, was constructed between 1910 and 1912 by Anglican Benedictine monks.

While the abbey is not open to visitors, its presence dominates the island, and you may catch a glimpse of the monks during one of their daily services.

Beyond the monastery, Caldey Island is rich with historical landmarks.

St. David’s Church, perched on a small hill above the village, dates back to Norman times, though its stonework suggests Celtic origins.

The island is also home to the Old Priory and St. Illtyd's Church, which features a distinctive leaning spire.

Each of these sites offers a glimpse into the island’s ancient past, inviting visitors to reflect on the generations who have found solace on this remote isle.

Caldey’s natural beauty is just as captivating as its history.

The island is crisscrossed with walking routes, many of which trace the coastline along dramatic cliffs or wind through woodlands where red squirrels can be spotted.

As you wander these paths, you’ll be treated to stunning views back toward the Welsh mainland and across the open sea.

For a peaceful picnic, there are countless secluded spots where the only sounds are the waves and the wind rustling through the trees.

Priory Beach, the island’s only public beach, is a particularly tranquil place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

One of the island’s unique features is its Post Office, a small, weathered building that stands as a testament to the challenges of island life.

With the frequent rains and strong winds that sweep across Caldey, the post office cannot always guarantee timely dispatch of letters, adding to the island’s charm and sense of detachment from the fast-paced world beyond.

Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, its stunning landscapes, or simply the desire to disconnect, Caldey Island offers a rare opportunity to experience a simpler, quieter way of life.