F is for the Falkland Islands – adventure, walks and amazing wildlife

Fearless and inquisitive, the Gentoo penguins huddle round us, murmuring quietly, checking us out. We might be interesting, but they are more fascinated by our Land Rovers, crowding round them and pecking at the tyres. It’s hard not to be completely charmed by these bold little birds, the highlight of a day at Kidney Cove where a beautiful clifftop walk also brought us to a rockhopper penguin colony. The Falkland Islands just teem with wildlife.

Another day, and we’re at Sea Lion Island. We flew here on 10-seater island-hopping aircraft, watching the sea below for breaching orcas and schools of dolphin. We have the place to ourselves; the beaches are pristine and the sea is Caribbean blue, but beware, the water is freezing! The clue is in the name – here we encounter sea lions and huge, amazing elephant seals.

At Volunteer Point, another wildlife highlight – spectacular King penguins, with their beautiful colouring and markings, tall and elegant birds. Unlike the Gentoos, the Kings are completely indifferent to humans – you can observe them at close quarters. The quality of the light here means there are superb photo opportunities.

Walking in this unpolluted environment of clear blue skies, white sandy beaches, wide open spaces and an endless horizon has been a complete pleasure, enhanced by the knowledge of our local guides, who have really brought to life for us the history, in particular the reminders of the 1982 conflict, and the wildlife of the remote, stunning Falklands archipelago.