Looe Island, now operated as a wildlife haven by Cornwall Wildlife Trust, is soon to open for the 2016 season.

You can now book your place to visit the stunning nature reserve with a  boat trip across waters teaming with life, followed by a tour with the warden around the island. 

And for the really adventurous there is even the chance to stay on the island under canvas for three nights. 

The nature reserve is home to many nesting birds such as cormorants, shags and oystercatchers, and Looe Island has the largest breeding colony in Cornwall of the majestic great black-backed gull, which has a wing span of around 1.5m. The island is also home to grey seals. 

A guided walk takes around three and a half hours and there is a  chance for visitors to independently explore the island or join the warden for a slide show in Jetty Cottage. 

Spring visits offer the chance to see seabirds breeding along the dramatic coast and take in the wonderful displays of wild flowers. Summer visits, and the reserve comes alive with insects, including  around 15 different types of butterflies. 

All the guided walks are afternoon events and cost £25 per person. 

Dates this year are: Wednesday April 6, Wednesday April 20, Thursday May 5, Friday May 20, Saturday June 4, Monday July 18, and Thursday September 29. 

In addition there are two speciality guided walks, both afternoon events, and costing £25 per person - Sunday July 3: Birds of Looe Island with Derek Spooner, and Thursday September 15, History of  Looe Island with Mark Camp. 

But if you really want to experience island life the Trust has a bell tent available for three-night short breaks at a cost of £250, including the return boat fee. 

Dates available in 2016 are Wednesday, April 13 to 16, Thursday, May 12 to 15, Friday, May 27 to 30, and Wednesday, September 7 to 10. 

Booking for the afternoon visits is essential. See  www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/looeisland  for further details. To book the three night short break please contact Callum Deveney, Head of Nature Reserves on (01872) 273939 ext 222 or by email  [email protected]