Filled with picture-perfect, pristine beaches and seafront promenades, the relatively milder climate at the Isle of Wight seems to attract herds of tourists waiting to let loose. The island is also known for its music festivals and wide range of outdoor activities it has to offer. Not only is the Isle of Wight one of the UK's top cycling and walking destinations, but also a great spot for other adventures like paragliding, mountain biking, and sea kayaking.
Here's a list of a few places you should surely visit and consider staying at if you're in the area:
1) South Wight:
As the name suggests, obviously located in the south of the isle, South Wight is known to have a micro-climate of its own in comparison to the rest of the city mainly because of the number of plants which grow here but not on the mainland of England, as seen in the Botanic Gardens in Ventnor. One thing not to miss is the Ventnor Fringe Festival which happens normally a the end of July. However, if you're visiting or planning to crash here, keep in mind that this location is about a 50-minute drive from the ferry ports so you'll need to spend some time travelling, but you can rest assured that it'll be worth the wait!
Places to Stay : The Royal hotel, The Hambrough Hotel, Hillside Hotel
Places to Eat : Le Tour De Monde, The Bandstand Restaurant, Thomsons's Restaurant
2) Sandown
Located on the South East Coastline, Sandown receives the highest number of tourists and is the island's main hot-spot. Teeming with hotels offering ocean views, clean golden sandy beaches, and plenty of entertainment for everyone with amusement parks, drool worthy cafes and much more, the area is bustling and full of life. Hire a Pedal Boat, buy a beach towel and build a sandcastle all before you hit a cosy cafe for lunch. There is parking right by the beach which is another bonus.
Places to Stay: The Lodge on the Marsh, The Avenue, Sandown Manor
Places to Eat : The Reef, The Banstand restaurant, The Old Corner Bank
3) West Wight:
Located on west side of the Isle, this is the perfect place for those looking for some peace and quiet, away from all the hubbub. Filled with empty beaches, charming villages, lush green hills and rugged cliffs, travelers have enough to explore. Places like Yarmouth, Freshwater, Totland, Colwell and Brightstone are worth looking into for a nice simple stay or you can even set up camp near the beaches along the military road. At West Wight one can also enjoy an activity-rich holiday by visiting an Alpaca Farm, Fossil Hunting, and visiting the Tapnell Farm park if you're traveling with family.
Places to Stay : West Sea View No 4 , The Portside, The Bugle Coaching Inn
Places to Eat : Off The Rails, On The Rocks, The Cow.
4) East Wight:
Located on the east side of the Isle, East Wight is a uniquely pretty place in comparison to the other locations on the Isle of Wight. The Beachfront hotels in Bembridge, Seaview and St. Helens are options you should consider for an enjoyable stay. However, with great beauty comes great prices; these places are also some of the most expensive on the entire island! Be assured though, that it'll be worth every penny and you'll also be close to the Portsmouth ferry crossing.
Places to stay : Bembridge Hotel, St Helens Lodge Park
Places to eat: The Coast Bar and dinning room, The Cottage Isle of Wight, The Little Gloster restaurant
5) Ryde:
If you're traveling with family, Ryde is the place for you. With perfect picnic spots and paddling pools, kind-friendly activities are abundant. Shopaholics will also enjoy Ryde as it has a wide array of shops for that much-needed retail therapy!
Places to stay: Ryde Castle, Dorset Hotel Isle of Wight, Royal Esplanade Hotel
Places to eat: The Duck, No64 Ryde
6) Cowes:
Apart from being a paradise for sailing enthusiasts, Cowes is also a haven for beachbums, shopaholics, foodies and museum-lovers. The cherry on top is that the town is well-connected to UK's mainland by ferry which allows for easy exploring in and around the region.
Places to stay: Onefifty, The Caledon Guest House, Villa Rothsay Hotel
Places to eat: Murrays Seafood Restaurant, Mojac's Restaurant & Bar
As you can see, the Isle of Wight has something for all kinds of travelers. We hope this makes your decision easier and that you have an enjoyable stay on this beautiful island!
