British adventurer Jasmine Harrison is currently three-quarters through a global voyage in the Mini Globe Race.
She sails alone aboard a 19-foot boat having set off from Portugal in March 2025. On her home run, she paused for seven days at St Helena.
St Helena sits deep in the South Atlantic Ocean. It ranks among the world’s most remote inhabited islands. Yet despite its isolation, the island actively welcomes adventure travellers and sports enthusiasts. As a result, visitors arrive ready to challenge both body and mind.
During her stopover, Jasmine spontaneously swam 30 miles around the entire island. She nearly made it stopping just 1.2 miles short of her quest. Clearly, she is not alone in her love of the island. Many adventurers now view St Helena as the ultimate playground for adrenaline seekers.
World’s Most Remote Marathon
St Helena hosts the World’s Most Remote Marathon each year. The race starts in the gardens of Plantation House. This is the home of the island’s Governor and Jonathan the tortoise, the world’s oldest living land animal.
Participants can choose a full marathon, half marathon, or 10km race. Each route winds across the island’s varied terrain. Along the way, runners pass lush green landscapes and historic landmarks.
Highlights include Napoleon’s House and rural hilltop views. Finally, the course finishes beside the sea in Jamestown. Consequently, runners combine endurance sport with immersive exploration.
A Vertical Test of Strength
Another iconic challenge awaits in Jamestown. Jacob’s Ladder links the town to Ladder Hill Fort. Jacob’s Ladder, a Grade I listed structure, dates back to an early 1800s cable railway. The staircase features 699 steps and a 183-metre vertical climb.
It delivers a serious test of strength and stamina. Athletes can race against the clock or pursue an official record. The current record stands at 4 minutes 40.75 seconds.
Explore the Island on Foot
Beyond races and climbs, guided hikes reveal the island’s dramatic character. Walkers traverse coastal paths, pastureland, and volcanic terrain. Rock pools and sea cliffs add further interest.
Moreover, hikers encounter unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Historic forts, cannons, and batteries punctuate the landscape. Importantly, many trails remain quiet and uncrowded. This creates a deeply immersive experience in untouched surroundings.
Small Island – Big History
St Helena has been a British territory since 1659. A brief Dutch occupation interrupted this period. Nevertheless, East India Company heritage remains strongly visible. Jamestown, the capital, preserves much of this history. Despite its modest size, the island feels rich in character.
St Helena covers just 47 square miles. It has a small population and unspoilt landscapes. As a result, visitors enjoy tranquillity, beauty, and discovery.
Airlink operates weekly flights from Johannesburg every Saturday. Seasonal flights also operate from Cape Town.
Accommodation options suit every traveller. Choices include the Mantis Hotel, guest houses, B&Bs, and self-catering cottages.
