Isle of Wight

Destination

The Isle of Wight is has something to offer visitors at any time of the year. Whether you want a relaxed weekend away with scenic walks, or an action packed few days trying a new watersport, then the Isle of Wight is the right destination. As soon as you step off the ferry you will feel yourself relax. Over half the Island is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and there is a network of footpaths that stretches over 500 miles so it's easy to get close to nature. Alternatively, if you are looking for somewhere to be spoilt then indulge yourself in the Isle of Wight's fine restaurants, art galleries and historic houses.

What's on Offer

Amenities

Litter free sands, clean bathing water and lifeguard provision, just some of the reasons why the the Isle of Wight has been voted joint top in the UK by ENCAMS for its number of quality beaches, including the Blue Flag ones at Ventnor and Sandown.

Amenities like trampolines, crazy golf and playgrounds as well as watersports, beachside cafes and restaurants, make the Isle of Wight is the ideal family holiday destination.

Places to Visit

This small Island offers an impressive range of attractions from ancient castles and Roman villas to animal parks and a working craft village. Blackgang Chine is one of the Island’s most popular attractions and new for the 2010 season, there will be a separate entrance to the cliff-top theme park for adults to explore the mysterious past of this beautiful coastline. This will give admission to a range of exhibitions and attractions, including Wight Flight, a 70 seat large screen cinema experience flying around the Island’s coast.

Eating Out

The Island is famous for flavoursome, home-grown produce. Expect seafood straight from the fisherman¹s catch, tasty organics, locally-brewed beer, locally-grown wine, scrummy ciders made from gorgeous Island apples. And whatever your budget and whenever the season you visit, you¹ll find your ideal eating venue. Eat and drink in an historic inn, a grand manor house, a romantic restaurant, a trendy bistro or a chocolate-box tearoom.

Accommodation

Country house hotels, restaurants with rooms, farmhouse B&Bs and coastal cottages; there are even establishments where you can tap into your mystical side or explore your inner self. Book on-line at www.islandbreaks.co.uk, or telephone 01983 813813.

Getting There

Road

There are car and foot passenger ferry crossings from Portsmouth and Lymington with Wightlink (www.wightlink.co.uk), from Southampton with Red Funnel (www.redfunnel.co.uk) or from Southsea with Hovertravel (www.hovertravel.co.uk).

These ferry ports are only two hours from London, and the ferry routes connect directly with road, rail and coach links to take you to your Island destination. If you are not bringing a car with you, once ashore you can take advantage of the Island's comprehensive network of buses, which are especially geared towards visitors.

Air

You can fly into Southampton’s airport from all over the UK, and from there to the ferry port is only a short car journey.