Walking on the Isle of Wight
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The Isle of Wight is a wonderful place if you like walking in the fresh air. The scenery is magnificent and you can vary your walks as the mood takes you, sometimes on the high ground with wonderful views, sometimes the sea-shore along the sand or amongst the rocks. Being an island, whichever way the wind is blowing you can always select a sheltered walk.
The WightStay crew had some great walks which you can read about it in our blog. If you want more information please email us.
One of our favourite walks is on the Warren, just to the west of Totland. On a clear day you can look to the west and see the cliffs around Swanage and the Purbeck Hills. Just to the north lies the entrance to Poole Harbour, the high rise buildings of Bournemouth then Christchurch Priory and round to Hurst Castle.
This is the closest part of the mainland, lying only about a quarter of a mile from the Island shore. Finally, as we look to the east, we see the Solent with its multitude of craft fading into the distance at Calshot, the entrance to Southampton Water.
The Island is covered with over five hundred miles of public footpaths and longer distance trails. With the variety of scenery from wooded glades to high open cliffs, plenty of accommodation and refreshment stops, and the best climate in England, it is the ideal place for that walking holiday. Come and have a look!
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival takes place in May every year. The annual Isle of Wight Walking Festival offers hundreds of walks over 16 days and celebrates the reputation of the Isle of Wight as one of the best destinations in the UK for walking holidays. 'Walk the Wight' from Bembridge to the Needles covers 26 miles and raises money for the local hospice - a challenge, a good walk and very satisfying and worthwhile.
Details of the festival can be found in our Walking Events page.
Maps are available for all these and other walks from the local tourist information offices. Isle of Wight CAM features illustrated walks on the Isle of Wight. The site is updated regularly to include a varying selection of walks both in length & interest.
John Brownscome, previously Rights of Way Officer for the Isle of Wight Council and then Lead Officer for the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is uniquely qualified to guide you around all aspects of our lovely island. John's company Explore Wight offers guided and self-guided walks around the Isle of Wight.
Michele offers guided Wight Walks and these are a great way to see our lovley island in company with an experienced guide. You can read about the walks programme here which also details the costs and booking information. Please mention WightStay when you call Michele, thanks.
