The Falkland Islands is an archipelago located at almost 500km from Patagonia in the South Atlantic Ocean. It’s a non-autonomous British overseas territory. However, it has its own capital and government. It consists of two main islands: East and West Falkland. These islands are where the majority of the population is located. The rest of the islands are mostly unpopulated, but there are exceptions like the Sea Lion Island and Pebble Island.
As expected from an oceanic climate, the islands’ weather is mostly cold, windy, and humid. And due to its location, they experience long daylight hours during summer. Therefore, we recommend you visit during the summer months of January and December. But visiting between October and April is also ideal.
Now, you might wonder what makes the islands a holiday destination. The answer is simple: its abundant, unique wildlife. At the Falkland Islands, you can see different kinds of penguins, such as the Gentoo, King, and Magellanic. You’ll also find sea lions, seals, whales, and numerous bird species, such as the Patagonian crested duck and albatross. So, if you’re a nature lover, make sure to visit the archipelago as soon as possible.
Despite being a small destination, several attractions are available for you to enjoy. And the majority are located near the best hotels in Falkland Islands. Read more about this on Top Things to do in the Falkland Islands.
Where to Stay in the Falkland Islands
Being one of the least densely populated countries in the world, you won’t have too many options here. When visiting the Falkland Islands, it’s best to stay in the capital, Stanley. Located on the island of East Falkland, it’s where you’ll find the biggest town of all the territory. It’s also where most hotels, bed and breakfasts, guest houses, and attractions are located. If you’re looking for the most convenient location, Stanley is the option for you. Now, if you want a secluded vacation away from the city, stay in Pebble Island. This island offers a peaceful, quiet ambient. It’s also the best place to stay for bird watchers. You can see unusual bird species such as the Peregrine Falcons and Night Herons. Meanwhile, Sea Lion Island is the perfect place for those who love nature and want to get a bigger glimpse of the islands’ wildlife.
Southernwind
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Southernwind – Spareroom is the perfect hotel for backpackers or solo travelers. It’s a house that provides adults-only accommodation. Both individual and shared rooms are available. And it features a lounge and garden where you can hang out. The front desk is conveniently open 24-hour. At an additional cost, airport transportation is provided. The rates are affordable, perfect if you’re on a budget.
The rooms are small yet cozy, and they feature a kettle for your tea or coffee. All of them also offer you a garden view and a seating area for you to enjoy. Continental breakfast is served every morning. While for lunch and dinner time, you can prepare your meals at the shared kitchen. Its location provides you with nearby restaurants and markets. Less than a mile away, you can visit the Town Centre Restaurant and the Bittersweet café. And if you’re a nature lover, visit Mount Longdon which is only 1.5mi (2.5km) away.
Darwin House
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If you’re looking for a secluded, tranquil ambient, the lodge Darwin House is the option for you. It offers six en-suite bedrooms and is open seven days a week throughout all seasons, except winter. It doesn’t have an on-site restaurant per se, but it offers several English dishes that you can enjoy for lunch and dinnertime. Tea, coffee, pastries, and biscuits are available from 11 am to 5 pm, perfect for an evening coffee break. Even better, all meals are made with locally sourced products.
There are several types of rooms available. If you’re traveling with your partner, pick one with a double bed. Meanwhile, for those who travel with friends and family, the hotel offers rooms with several single beds. Whichever you choose, each features a traditional, cozy design, and offers a view of the landscape. The hotel’s Sunny Conservatory is another excellent spot if you want to enjoy the view of the bay. For your convenience, a taxi service is available on request. All of these features make it one of the best hotels in Falkland Islands.
Lookout Lodge
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The Lookout Lodge is the go-to-place if you’re on a budget but want a more luxurious hotel. It offers 60 rooms and different packages that fit every guests’ needs. Whether you’re staying for a night or two weeks, the rates are affordable. The lodge features a picnic and barbecue area, perfect for an outdoor gathering under the sun. If you’re traveling with family, visit the game lounge for some family-bonding time. And for the bookworms, a separate reading lounge is available.
It’s located near the center of Stanley, making it one of the best hotels in Falkland Islands. Nearby, you’ll find popular restaurants such as Shorty’s Dinner and Victory Bar. And if you’re a nature lover, visit the 1982 Memorial Wood, which is less than a mile away. The lodge features an on-site dining room that serves continental breakfasts and regular dishes for lunch and dinner. For your convenience, coffee, tea, and a wide variety of natural juices are available all day long. And when requested, special diet meals are served.
Pebble Island Lodge
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Pebble Island Lodge is a cozy, renovated farmhouse that can fit up to 11 guests at a time. As its name suggests, it’s located in Pebble Island, near to Elephant Beach. Both the exterior and interior maintain a traditional design that provides you with a warm and friendly ambient. The rooms are spacious and feature either single, double, or twin beds. There’s also an outdoor deck and garden where you can enjoy outstanding views of the ocean and sky, especially at nighttime. Enjoy a unique experience watching the Aurora Australis!
Food-wise, the lodge serves local cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It also has a wide variety of teas and cakes for you to enjoy. And when requested, vegan and vegetarian meals can be provided. Nearby, you can find several historic buildings, and its location offers you quick access to Elephant Beach. You can reach it with a 5-minute walk! For your entertainment, two off-road tours in 4×4 vehicles are available.
Sea Lion Lodge
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Located in Sea Lion Island, Sea Lion Lodge is the ideal (and only) place to stay when visiting the island. It features 12 bedrooms with British sized beds. And if you’re traveling with your children and spouse, a family room is available. The rooms offer you breathtaking views of the South Atlantic Ocean, which makes it one of the best hotels in Falkland Islands. Meanwhile, at the main lounge, you can enjoy views of a nearby gentoo penguin colony.
The on-site restaurant & bar serves British and international cuisine, and also offers a wide variety of wines and beers. This hotel is also an excellent option if you’re a photographer. Why? Its location provides easy access to the island’s wildlife and landscape. You’ll be able to take unique shots of penguins, different bird species, and the ocean. Activity-wise, it has several tours you can enjoy. For the adventurous, hiking trails are also within reach.
The Pale Maiden B&B
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The Pale Maiden B&B is a modern bed and breakfast located in the center of Stanley. It features four bedrooms and an elevated shared lounge that overlooks the town’s historic harbor. All the rooms have a private bathroom and offer supreme comfort. At the lounge, there’s an honesty bar where you can find different soft drinks. For “smoko” – the local name for tea and cake break – tea, and coffee machines are available. And for the best pastries, visit the Teaberry Café, situated at 0.68mi (1.1km).
The location itself makes it one of the best hotels in Stanley, Falkland Islands. The Falklands Islands Museum and National Trust is only 0.7mi (1.2km) from the hotel. Even better, the East Jetty harbor and several restaurants and convenience stores are also less than a mile away. Rates are higher compared to other nearby hotels, but they include daily breakfast and housekeeping.
Malvina House Hotel
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Malvina House Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in Stanley, Falkland Islands. It features an on-site restaurant & bar, a lounge, and a garden. The restaurant, one of the best in town, serves continental breakfast and a mix of British dishes and international food for lunch and dinner. The rooms have a modern yet cozy design, and there are several types available. The standard rooms are perfect for backpackers or travelers staying for only one night. Meanwhile, the executive rooms and suite are ideal for a romantic getaway.
At an additional charge, several activities, such as walking tours, movie nights, fishing, and canoeing, are available. The hotel features a central location that provides you with nearby restaurants, shops, memorial monuments, and historic sites you can visit. For your convenience, a car rental service is available at the front desk. And after a long day of exploring Stanley, relax at the hotel’s sauna and Jacuzzi.
The Waterfront Boutique Hotel
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When it comes to the best hotels in Falkland Islands, Waterfront Boutique Hotel is the number one option. As its name implies, it’s a boutique hotel that faces the ocean. The interior features a chic design decorated with the artwork and photographs of local artists. Its location in the center of Stanley makes it the perfect choice if you want to explore the town. Less than a mile away, you’ll find most of the town’s pubs, restaurants, and convenience shops.
The rooms provide a luxurious ambient and offer beautiful views of the ocean and landscape. They’re also soundproof and include a tea and coffee machine. Enjoy a morning coffee in the comfort of your room! The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Waterfront Kitchen Café, serves delicious local cuisine and a wide variety of wine options. On the weekends, brunch meals are available from 10 am to 2 pm. On-site, you’ll also find a gift shop, and when requested, airport transportation is available. Rates are some of the highest on the islands, but the experience you’ll enjoy here is worth every penny.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in the Falkland Islands:
- The Narrow’s Bar & Restaurant – One of the most popular restaurants in Stanley. It serves a wide variety of British dishes.
- Teaberry Café – Here you’ll find the best coffee and pastries in town. Sandwiches and burrito wraps are also available.
- Victory Bar – It’s a classic English pub with the best ambient. Enjoy different cocktails, wines, and beers.
- Shorty’s Dinner – The place-to-go for a quick meal. It serves American cuisine, especially milkshakes and hamburgers.
Recommended Activities In the Falkland Islands:
- Falkland Islands Museum & National Trust – At the museum, get a glimpse of the Falklands Islands’ history. You can also view the Cape Pembroke Lighthouse.
- Post Office Museum – The ideal attraction for those who enjoy museums of all kinds. You can view old postal artifacts, along with wooden mailboxes and mailbags.
