Isle
of Wight Tourism
The
Westridge Centre
Brading Road
Ryde
Isle of Wight
PO33 1QS
Tel: 01983 813818
Fax: 01983 823030
e-mail: post@isle-of-wight-tourism.gov.uk
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Just
a short sea crossing from the mainland is the Isle of Wight, a unique island
with nearly half of it designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Due to the Island's mild climate it has its own vineyards. It is also
one of the few places where you can still catch a glimpse of a red squirrel
and the Glanville Fritillary butterfly. The Isle of Wight has over 25
miles of beaches from secluded coves to safe family beach with amenities.
You'll find busy market towns with a variety of shops, charming harbour
sides full of chandleries and shops stocking designer yachting clothing.
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had their favourite seaside retreat here
'Osborne House', you can still visit it today furnished very much as they
left it providing a marvellous insight into royal life. In the grounds
of Osborne House is Swiss Cottage now a museum, it was originally built
for the royal children to play in, where you can see the bathing machine
used by the queen.
The scenic highlight of the island has to be the Needles, three towers of
rock at the western end of the island which jut out of the sea. There's
a varied choice when it comes to eating out with riverside inns and cosy
country pubs offering local produce with fresh seafood being a speciality,
along with harbour-side restaurants and bars.
Accommodation is also widely available ranging from large luxury hotels,
family run guest houses and B & B's, self catering apartments to holiday
parks and camping sites. There's something for everyone.
If activity is what you want there's plenty of it, try windsurfing, sailing,
paragliding or perhaps a round of golf, there are over 500 miles of paths
and bridleways to walk and explore, cycling and riding are also popular,
there again you could always just laze on the beach. The Isle of Wight
hosts many major yachting and powerboat events, including the world famous
Cowes Week. You'll also find music and arts festivals and even a 'Garlic
Festival'. |
