This is a route I made with some friends a while ago as a kind of 'only for men' trip. We had such a great time and had a couple of very challenging ascensions, which was great, I think this route should be done at least one in a lifetime, they are incredible coast landcapes and amazing views of the Ocean uo fom the cliffs. Also, there are a lot of things to do along the route.
The walk begins at Cowes and passes the lovely Gurnard and Thorness Bays before coming to Newton, with its delightful wildlife Nature Reserve. You continue along the Newton River estuary, passing Newton Bay on your way to the popular town of Yarmouth where the ferry arrives from Lymington. Here you will cross the river Yar and pass the castle before coming to the village of Freshwater.
The path then leads you to the south west tip of the island where you will pass the beautiful Alum Bay and the famous Needles rocks. The Needles Park is one of the most popular attractions on the island and includes a chairlift which gives fabulous views of the Needles Rocks and Lighthouse.
From the Needles you head east towards St Catherine's point, passing Freshwater, Brighstone and Chale Bay.
After rounding St Catherine's point (the southernmost point of the island) and lighthouse you pass a series of pretty bays and coves on your way to the popular seaside resort at Ventnor.
The path then visits two more lovely seaside resorts at Shanklin and Sandown. Shanklin has a picturesque old town and a pretty esplanade with a number of hotels and restaurants. Sandown Bay is also attractive with a popular stretch of golden sand and the interesting Victorian town to explore.
You then round the chalk down at Culver Down, before passing Bembridge with its pretty harbour, bays and beaches. Next stop is the seaside resort at Ryde with beaches and the esplanade to enjoy.
The final section takes you from Ryde to Cowes, crossing Wooton creek and passing Osborne House. The house was built between 1845 and 1851 for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as a summer home and boasts stunning gardens, state rooms and galleries.
Soon after you cross the river Medina and arrive at the finish point at Cowes harbour.
Along the island you will find a lot of stores where you can hir your bike. Nonetheless, Wight is called 'the bicycle island' due to the several cycling routes in the area and the huge amount of bikes. Also, they have a lovely program, called Re-Cycle, where you can give away your old bike so they can send it to rural populations in Africa so people can move from one place to the other.
The Isle of Wight is fast becoming the foodie capital of the south coast and it is easy to see why!
Finding great places to eat is one of the highlights of any holiday, and the Isle of Wight offers a fabulous array to cater for all tastes and appetites.
As soon as you step off the Isle of Wight Ferry you will be spoiled for choice, with an abundance of afternoon tea rooms, country pubs, quality restaurants and beachside cafes.
If you'd rather pickup or get food delivered to your door there are also plenty of takeaways & fast food outlets to choose from.
Every town and village across the Island will have places to tempt you.
Whether you are looking for family friendly or gourmet dining, the Isle of Wight is truly unique in what it can offer.
The diversity of the landscape is reflected in the quality and choice of local produce on offer in many of the eateries or from local farmers markets.
There are good transport options on the Isle of Wight. This includes good road coverage, bus and train public transport services and at only approximately 25 miles by 13 there are good travel options through cycling and walking.
Bus services on the Island are provided by Southern Vectis.There are over 20 standards routes serving the majority of the island as well as having good connections to the main ferry terminals.
Island Line Trains (part of the South West Trains group) operate a train service between Ryde Pier Head (connecting with the WightLink fastcat) and Shanklin.
