Isle of Wight
There are very few lovely, quiet and tranquil places in Europe. One such place can be found across a small stretch of water to the south of the England called the Solent, after taking a 20 minute boat ride you will arrive at the tranquil destination. The Isle of Wight plunges you into a mystery of surrounding natural beauty. The extraordinary flora and fauna provides you with such a magnetic environment where you can feel your spirit and free your mind from the everyday hustle and bustle. The island has many places of interest to visit and contemplate. The islanders are very proud of the island’s rich history. Every place and every stone seems to remember its past whether it is a glorious memorial or just a simple stepping stone. Queen Victoria for example had her summer residence at Osborne, giving the Island a special Royal significance and many interesting anecdotes.
Wight About is your on line Live Diary, here you can get to know all about the forthcoming events like the annual regatta in Cowes and the Old Gaffas at Freshwater. You are welcome to explore the information about the whole cultural life of the IOW. Wight About can provide you with all the exciting sport and musical festivals like that of the Wight International Jazz Festival, Rock Music Festival, and Bestival. Visitors are encouraged to express their opinions and leave their comments.
The Isle of Wight is great as seaside resort destination. Tourism is one of the largest industries locally. Online communication gives you an opportunity to keep abreast of all news and share your views on this or that topic. For example, if you want to have a nice summer vacation on the island, this is where you can ask about the leading hotels and read other people’s opinion. Or perhaps you would like to find out about a walking tour around the Island, we endeavour to find out what walks are catered for, how past people rate them and what is recommended. We are always available to distribute ideas and impressions.
For updated news, latest events as well as fresh remarks and reviews they are to be found at Wight About!
Isle of Wight Tourism Sector
Where can you find a perfect place for a great British holiday? The Isle of Wight is one of the options you may lie to consider. It is an unspoiled paradise of natural beauty and the special laid back our of time spirit of the IOW will plunge you immediately into a pleasant bygone age.
Tourism is a prime sector of IOW economy, IOW tourism brings an essential amount of income supporting into the IOW livelihoods of many of its residents. It contributes around 350 million pounds every year. This is a significant sum of money and it is vital for the IOW survival. There are many and varied accommodation types on offer all over the Island, The prospective visitor can select from hotels, B & B`s, guest houses, campsites and other types depending on your preferences and budget. Tourism on the IOW is growing and flourishing due to some interesting factors such as its close position to that of the mainland making the trip short but adventurous, a nice climate and super weather conditions. Couple this with its beautiful natural surroundings, historic heritage and hospitable people makes Island a place not to miss.
Another great set of attractions is the hundreds of tourist events and attractions that are being run year round all over the Island. These all add value as economic components over and above the accommodation and pure beauty that the Island has to offer, which includes sunny and sandy beaches, spectacular sea views, magnificent rural areas, historical places, various parks, zoos and countryside. Among big IOW events we can say about Isle of Wight Festival, Cowes Week, Garlic Festival to name just a few.
In other words, IOW is an ideal place for a holiday adventure, here you can find a lot of things to do and review and have a great time having fun and enjoyment. Recent research over the past few years has shown that the amount of holidaymakers coming to the Island is growing year on year. And this tendency illustrates that these figures are a good sign for the coming years, which in turn has given investors reasons to plough further monies into building more accommodation hotels, parks, attractions in many parts of the Island. Most of people who have visited this island once come back here time and time again. The Isle of Wight is a green island shaped like that of a diamond on its side. It is really a jewel of the Great Britain. Here you can relax and feel the fresh breath of the sea while marveling at its outstanding natural beauty.
One of the famed landmarks on the IOW is the Needles. You most certainly never forget it once you have stood on the downs at Alum bay and look down over the cliffs and see these magnificent chalk needles that run out into the English Channel. Here you can also see an interesting natural phenomenon, multi- coloured sand. It is caused over many years by the mixture of different minerals layered into the sandy rock face. Not far away from here you can view the lighthouse on the edge of the needles rocks. Travel Isle of Wight and you will have a marvellous trip on the island.
Difference Between a Guest House And a B & B
There are many excellent options of accommodation types available on the Isle of Wight. This impressive choice caters for all tastes, demands and budgets. What is the difference between a guest house and a B & B? Well, usually the guest houses are bigger; consequently they provide accommodation in addition to just a bedroom such as a lounge and perhaps a communal bar. Also guest houses are often able to offer more services and comfortable facilities than their smaller B & B ones competitors.
For instance, B & B include only breakfast while guest houses can supply evening dinners and frequently have as already suggested a licensed bar. Usually like any other type of accommodation guest houses are charged with a local star system rating from one to five. The gradation scale is based upon quality of service and hospitality, the level of cleanness, the excellence of supplied meals and whether or not an en-suite bathroom is available.
St. Leonards for example is a typical Guest House situated in the charming and scenic area of Shanklin town. This family run accommodation welcomes you to their business and will make you feel comfortable as if you were at home. Christina and David invite you to enjoy your British holiday in this picturesque surroundings and friendly atmosphere. You have will have a wonderful opportunity to combine many relaxing pastimes with an excellent Guest House service. Last year St Leonards was awarded 4 stars by the Visit Britain team. The Island is an ideal place for cyclists and walkers to enjoy relaxing experience during their days out and about. There are about many hundreds of miles of magnificent walks around the Island and if you are a passionate golf player, you can check the visitors play days on one of the seven major Golf Courses on the Island.
photo source: http://www.stleonards-hotel.co.uk
While looking around for suitable accommodation may we recommend another super short stay Isle of Wight Guest House for a nice short of long holiday. The Winterbourne Country House in Bonchurch, this 5 stars Guest House is a residence of wonderful special charm and beauty. The splendid location is next to my favourite Isle of Wight location of Ventnor and is distinguished by its tranquility and magnificence. You will get a very warm welcome and be inspired by its charming gardens. This famous house has seen the likes of guests such as Charles Dickens. May be you will feel his spirit or inspiration and write another masterpiece like David Copperfield.
photo source: http://www.winterbournehouse.co.uk/
Winterbourne is a non- smoking house, so you if are a non smoker you will have a great time if not we suggest you may need a packet of nicorettes or give up its well worth it. At the Winterbourne House you will find en-suite, direct dial telephone, colour TV and available beverages. Why not sit and have a nice cup of tea on the terrace overlooking the sea and the old church at Bonchurch.
Whatever Isle of Wight accommodation you select, remember to take a camera with you, as you will have plenty wonderful things you will capture while holidaying on the Island. Travel Isle of Wight and have fun!
A Day Out- Donkey Sanctuary
There so many articles written about the Isle of Wight. Even those holiday- makers that had never stepped this island can feel like that they made a trip to this island by reading any of them published items. But there is always another story to tell, today I will draw your attention to wonderful story of the Islands own donkey sanctuary.
The donkey sanctuary is situated between Shanklin and Ventnor, on the road to Wroxall. The history of the sanctuary is as follows, set up in 1987, the main motive of its establishment was to help and support donkeys that were either left over`s from the days when they were being used as beach attractions or as an unwanted child`s seasonal present.
These nice and cute animals need people`s assistance. They are so lovely and defenseless. In some cases they are suffering and in distress. I think that every human being`s mission on this Earth is to help animals if they possibly can.
Photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/frisby/
What are the reasons for these donkeys ending up in the sanctuary? There are various causes as already described why donkeys find their way into the sanctuary. Often a donkey suffers from a malady or disease and will need professional treatment, this is not cheap and if they have not been insured may well just end up being neglected by their owners. Eventually the owners throw in the towel and either call the RSPCA or the sanctuary direct to see if they can help. This and many other reasons are why these donkeys end up entering the sanctuary. In the sanctuary they can find care, feed, warmth and love and they have never turned away a donkey in need.
Photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/73899745@N00/
Often people say that donkeys are stupid a bit and stubborn. I can say that it is completely the wrong view. Those people who do not know these nice animals and who find them obnoxious express opinions like this.
A male donkey is called jack and female one is a jenny and in reality donkeys are very sensitive and gentle animals. They are very good natured creatures that are prepared to work very hard given the right encouragement. They love visitors and children and like very much to interact with the public, if the public are nice to them. In bygone years the donkey evolution and progress meant that they have lived with people and worked with them as companions for centuries, often they were very badly treated but still remained friendly to people. The sanctuary donkeys obviously have no great workloads and spend most of their days frolicking and pandering to the public` s attention. It is a great fun for the whole family, especially for children. Together they will have a good time and pleasant interactive communications often take place.
If you are pet lover, then you will have wonderful pastime in the donkey sanctuary. Here the animals live, breed and grow in beautiful natural surroundings. Here you will have an opportunity to communicate with these nice animals as well as enjoy picturesque scenery. I can say that one or two hours out with donkeys provide you with as unforgettable holiday experience. It is well worth taking time out to visit the donkeys! Choose a wonderful day with sunny weather and enjoy a day out with donkeys. Your children will be grateful to you for such a wonderful surprise. If you want to spend your weekend near the donkey sanctuary, you can rent a suitable Isle of Wight accommodation in Shanklin or Ventnor.
By the way, you can buy Christmas Cards with donkeys on. Making your small contribution to the donkeys assists the overall continuation of the sanctuary and the card will remain as a nice memory about your trip. Support these animals of inquisitive nature and gentle spirit!
Inspire Your Imagination With The New IOW Impressions
The Isle of Wight is a very comfortable home for the islanders that live on this beautiful island as well as being a cozy retreat for those wishing to have a nice secluded holiday. The Isle of Wight always welcomes its islanders and holiday makers offering a wide range varied types of accommodation. The pretty towns and villages of the Island with their charming hotels and guest houses are glad to provide all guests with a qualitative service expected by delivered by well trained staff keeping up with all the traditions in hotel sector.
photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ski8r/
You can choose whatever you want and like with regards to accommodation. Obviously this is very dependent on your preferences and budget, you have for example an opportunity to choose from luxury hotels like that of the Lakeside Park Hotel to that of many much smaller B&B variants dotted all over the Island. Everyone can find suitable accommodation for his or her needs and demands. Whether you take a superb luxury accommodation or that of a value for money hotel, you will have an unforgettable holiday on the Isle of Wight.
All the most exciting moments should always be remembered in the photos and pictures that you take. Questions are often asked by the visitor about the Islands` many resorts. What can the Isle of Wight offer to the visitor? When was this or that town built? What happened during here in long ago? Who lived here and so on? These questions are answered when you start to explore the exciting and rich history of the Isle of Wight. Besides interesting history, the island is famous for its natural beauty. From lush and green forests to marvelous sandy beaches and sea views, you are free to enjoy your holiday on the IOW during any season of the year.
What accommodation type would you prefer? Well, some people do like luxury apartments with the whole range of facilities, being fully included. They do not want to care about everyday life issues; they just want to devote themselves to a entertaining with a super lifestyle. But, many holiday makers prefer more informal hotel or guest houses. Holiday makers by definition are very curios to find out more about their new surroundings, they are curious and want to find about all the new things available for them to do. Some people wish to stay in a more quite rural setting; many places are available from caravans to chalets at very reasonable prices, throughout the Island. By the way, the most important factor when on holiday in my opinion is the company you are going with not the place you are stay at. So always make sure you like who you are going with so that you enjoy your stay wherever you choose.
Many of the holiday packages available also offer to a built in ferry service charge for you. All accommodation owners are sure to welcome you with a warm and friendly way when you arrive at selected destination. You arrive as a guest and leave as a friend.There is also some a really good selection of accommodation for the younger visitors, who enjoy the camping sites, caravans and holiday parks. Select a superb location in natural surroundings and have fun with your family or friends. Travel Isle of Wight and inspire yourself with a great deal of new and fresh impressions as well as enriching your photo gallery with many new pictures.
Do you want to have a nice holiday outside your country? Come on and visit a beautiful British island called Isle of Wight. Isle of Wight accommodation offers to you a qualitative hotel service.
The Isle of Wight’s own Ryde Harriers announces the 2009 Marathon
The Ryde Harriers based on the Isle of Wight announces the 2009 Marathon, now being run in October! It is an old event with a great deal of history. Established in 1957, the marathon is the longest running organised marathon in the United Kingdom. It is an exciting event in the sport life of all those people interested and taking part as well as for the spectators. The marathon has its devoted runners, every year they return to it and enjoy the Islands roads. One of the oldest athletics clubs in the UK being Ryde Harriers, has been organizing club events and runs since 1886.
Photo source: Ryde Harriers Photo Album
On 4th of October, 2009 all trained runners are welcomed to take part, this is a not an event for runners who have no experience or who have not be trained to run this kind of distance. It all kicks off on the Sunday morning with a 11.00 am start on the south side of Ryde Boating Lake after registration in Ryde Rowing Club.
The UK Athletics rules the for a marathon dictate it has to be 26 miles 385 yards long. The route of the marathon consists of one anti clockwise circular route of the Island and includes Ryde, Binstead, Wootton, Newport, Arreton, Sandown, Brading and back to Ryde.
Photo source: Ryde Harriers Photo Album
On each mile point the runner will see indicators of the distance covered. During the competition the competitors get rather thirsty and thus break points and water stops are frequent along the route.
If you wish, you can ask for own drink supplies to be placed at various stages but there is a need to register this requirement beforehand. Of course, some runners are very used to running these type of marathons and thus it becomes second nature, however the Islands route is covered in many hill climbs so is regarded as one of the toughest in the UK.. Though some people really do like and enjoy it, but for the new runners it might be another issue. So, you have to be prepared for some special conditions during your running, preparation preparation preperation as the trainers say. All finalists are awarded a runners medal at the end of the competition.
Photo source: Ryde Harriers Photo Album
So, everybody is welcomed to take part in this stimulating Running Marathon Race. It is a really splendid spectacle to witness as the runners go past , make sure to clap and cheer them on.
If you are a driver, please be must be more attentive and careful while driving your car as there are people running are tired and can easily make a mistake.
Of course, there is a great desire to win the Marathon but have time to appreciate all that take part for whatever reason they are running. It gives a sense of satisfaction and completion, but I can tell that the process is also exciting and exhausting. So damn the torpedoes full speed ahead and join in if you dare, open up your hidden capabilities and have fun.
The Ryde Harriers based on the Isle of Wight announces the 2009 Marathon, now being run in October! It is an old event with a great deal of history. Established in 1957, the marathon is the longest running organised marathon in the United Kingdom. It is an exciting event in the sport life of all those people interested and taking part as well as for the spectators. The marathon has its devoted runners, every year they return to it and enjoy the Islands roads. One of the oldest athletics clubs in the UK being Ryde Harriers, has been organizing club events and runs since 1886.
On 4th of October, 2009 all trained runners are welcomed to take part, this is a not an event for runners who have no experience or who have not be trained to run this kind of distance. It all kicks off on the Sunday morning with a 11.00 am start on the south side of Ryde Boating Lake after registration in Ryde Rowing Club.
The UK Athletics rules the for a marathon dictate it has to be 26 miles 385 yards long. The route of the marathon consists of one anti clockwise circular route of the Island and includes Ryde, Binstead, Wootton, Newport, Arreton, Sandown, Brading and back to Ryde.
On each mile point the runner will see indicators of the distance covered. During the competition the competitors get rather thirsty and thus break points and water stops are frequent along the route.
If you wish, you can ask for own drink supplies to be placed at various stages but there is a need to register this requirement beforehand. Of course, some runners are very used to running these type of marathons and thus it becomes second nature, however the Islands route is covered in many hill climbs so is regarded as one of the toughest in the UK.. Though some people really do like and enjoy it, but for the new runners it might be another issue. So, you have to be prepared for some special conditions during your running, preparation preparation preperation as the trainers say. All finalists are awarded a runners medal at the end of the competition.
So, everybody is welcomed to take part in this stimulating Running Marathon Race. It is a really splendid spectacle to witness as the runners go past , make sure to clap and cheer them on.
If you are a driver, please be must be more attentive and careful while driving your car as there are people running are tired and can easily make a mistake.
Of course, there is a great desire to win the Marathon but have time to appreciate all that take part for whatever reason they are running. It gives a sense of satisfaction and completion, but I can tell that the process is also exciting and exhausting. So damn the torpedoes full speed ahead and join in if you dare, open up your hidden capabilities and have fun.
Ventnor is my Favourite Town
I want to start my story with one of my most favorite my emotional experiences whilst on holiday. I have been to the Isle of Wight and I liked the island very much. It is a green and covered in super flora and fauna and is nice and tranquil and one of the best places in Europe where my soul and mind can rest for a while from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But the town I lied most of all was that of Ventnor.
photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ronsaunders47/
If you are going to visit the IOW, do drop into Ventnor. It`s a lovely seaside resort with a long tradition, perfect for a family holiday as it has a real Mediterranean feel to it and is one of the hidden wonders of the island. It is situated right on the south coast tip of eh Island looking out over the English Channel towards France. Built in part upon the inclined cliffs, it nestles in the shelter of steep sided hills and falls steeply towards the sea offering some magnificent views from the many viewing points one can stop at. This town is very nice because of its mild climate and therapeutic sea air. Just a minute or two from the town centre you feel this splendid atmosphere of sheltered tropical weather as Ventnor often receives the highest amount of sunny days for the whole of England.
photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/9183244@N03/
Historically speaking, Ventnor began its life as just a small fishing rural community. Often associated with smuggling and the odd costal ship wreck due to the notorious Ventnor ledge, which used to catch unfamiliar sea captains unaware and cause catastrophic damage to their ships. In 1866 the Isle of Wright Railway was constructed and this date initiated fabulous growth with the community, the town prospered, flourishing with growth all over Ventnor. Due to the type of warm weather, Ventnor became a therapeutic centre with the UK`s largest sanatorium for TB, which at the time was untreatable and deadly. Nearby Bonchurch became the haunt of a number of famous writers, including Charles Dickens.
He stayed in this village for a while very close to the Old Bonchurch Church, which has a really quaint plaque saying “Refurbished in 1086″ outside on the wall. This small village is almost unchanged, with its village pond and pretty cottages can be reached by a pleasant and easy stroll along the sea wall from the harbour.
Ventnor Botanical Gardens is one of the most famous attractions just outside the town.
photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/grahsking/
It is very beautiful and has a tremendous variety of flora and fauna on display, the local microclimate of Ventnor allows for many tropical and sub tropical plants of all kinds to grow, making for really fantastic experience as you walk through the many styles of gardens on display. Here you can find gorgeous plants from Japan, New Zealand and Australia. All through the village is the perfect place for growing many a rare flower or plant.
The temperature and humidity sees many flourishing tropical flowers just growing wild in many of the cottage gardens. However, around about in this area you can observe many features created by the landslip, as the surrounding hills are vulnerable to slippages due to their makeup and the steep hillsides they cling to. This geological aspect is called Graben. Due to this factor several houses have moving over the centuries as well as underground pipes and cables of supplies being destroyed as the movement occurs.
All in all Ventnor still remains one of the popular destinations to vacation to, Its sandy beach is great for relaxation; a walk along the coast path takes you to the famous 22 acre Botanic Gardens, Steephill Cove- one of the island`s hidden gems, do try and go there, take a camera it`s just fantastic. Ventnor town has several supermarkets and a good mix of shops, pubs, cafes and restaurant, together with a great choice of accommodation and fine dining. Ventnor is considering one of the main IOW attractions. Isle of Wight Hotels with open doors all year round.
Cross The Solent And Visit Shanklin
Have you ever been to the Isle of Wight? This splendid Island of natural beauty is situated off the south coast of the United Kingdom and is one of the largest islands of the British Isles being twenty miles wide by eleven miles. If you are on the Island and transverse to the south-east of the IOW, you come across the nice old village of Shanklin. Shanklin`s unique charm attracts visitors year after year.

This old village is famous for its lovely thatched cottages restaurants, and pubs as well as many tourist shops selling trinkets and Island novelties of all kinds. What does the name of this village mean? The word Shanklin is of Saxon origin which means a deep and narrow valley. It has a long, sandy beach which is great for sunbathing, and one of its attractions is its fine gardens, including the extra special Shanklin Chine, this is a beautiful ravine down to the sea, filled with rare plants and a wonderful waterfall as well as a lot of interesting flora and fauna.
The pretty Rylstone Gardens also provides another super option, particularly on long, hot summer days.

You can walk around the Visitor’s Centre where you can find some super information on heritage of the IOW. You can also visit the memorial to the Royal Marine Commandoes and take a nice cup of tea in the Tea Rooms or a stroll around the gift shop. If you are curious to visit something extraordinary, take time out to examine the tiny holes in the facade of the cliff face as you walk around and down to the sea shore. You will be very much surprised to know that these holes are the homes of wasps. So, be careful not to get bitten by them. Shanklin`s long esplanade is served by road trains that take you back up to your hotel, from the play arenas, and places to eat and drink which are found along the promenade.

The town itself has a good choice of restaurant, cafes and pubs, and is also home to an annual regatta and excellent carnival processions. Many Ice cream parlors are on hand, and in the heat of the summer afternoon Shanklin is the perfect place to pass the time. All in all with its old village, range of curio shops and the sun drenched beaches Shanklin is a dream place to vacation. In the evening, kick of the shoes and watch the sunset from the Steamer Inn. Welcome to a magical world of natural beauty found in and around Shanklin.
Suitable accommodation on the Isle of Wight for one person, a couple or a whole family can be found on many of the online Island portals, providing you with the all necessary information about the IOW Tourism, IOW Attractions etc.
Photos source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/iow_sparky/
Sports And Fun of The Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight even if I say so myslef is a splendid place for fun and adventure. I personally find the Isle of Wight is a wonderful place where the sun admirers have an opportunity to enjoy warm days, golden beaches and the lazy hazy days of summer. On top of this it is really a fantastic and one may say one of the best places for water sports like yachtsman, kite surfers, wind surfers, canoeist, powerboats, rowing to name but a few, all summer the water worshipers are having super fun enjoying their particular interest.
For example at the end of August a fairly new event that has taken place over the past few years adorns our islands air sea and waterways yet again, The White Air Festival. It has now become the leading and biggest sporting event of its type in Europe. Within its framework you can enjoy a fabulous variety of sports you can examine in detail what makes these tick and how you can get involved, The whole thing is organized in a very hands on way so that the visitor where possible and try for themselves and see if they are keen to enjoy these activities. Try for example; mountain boarders, surf kayakers, gravity racers, Jet Ski or any others are just s sample of what is on offer. It is a portion of simple amusement and up to a kick of excitement for an adrenalin rush for those risky enthusiasts. Do not hesitate to endeavor to try these thrilling kinds of sports, you just don`t know until you ry. If you think that it is an opportunity only for young or risky people, you are absolutely wrong. Any person at any age or from any social group or with even with physical disabilities can compete and have a go. It is all about having fun and enjoy sports and at the same time minimizing the risks!
After all this excitement you may wish to have a break and rest for a while, you can of course listen to some of the live artists and bands all around the arena , or why not just have a drink and a rest at a bar under a comfortable tented area. I am sure that after feeling dully satisfied and happy you up again plunging again into the atmosphere of fiesta and celebration they call The White Air Festival. Also you may well be interested in mountains the brave mountain boarders skilled in high jumps; you can see them test their strength in extremely high, vertical and sharp steep mountains` slopes. Whether water or land sports, you can have fun at any of these sporting activities. Choose whatever you want and don`t worry if you think you will be missing something as they are going on simultaneously so plenty of time to try all. Entertain yourself in an impressive and thrilling style! Commentators will help and keep the competitors and visitors fully amused throughout the event.
If you do not go in for any sport now but you have a desire to do it and try it out then you will be welcomed with open arms. There are programmers for beginners and experts alike. Sometimes it is important to try the strange and daredevil things in life. Do not be afraid as you will find the way out of any situation as you are being carefully guided throughout. In addition, these missions will often make you stronger; give you a piece of enduring knowledge and may be a new skill set. So, if you are up for a bit of excitement I will see you at The White Air Festival.
If you are interested to find a suitable Isle of Wight accommodation, you are free to do it via many internet portals. IOW Tourism welcomes you and is ready to offer a wide range of water and mountain sports.
Beside The Isle of Wight Seaside
Our sunny and hot summer has now faded into memory, but this is not a reason to get upset. There are still some warm days and we can always prey for a late Indian summer which would be wonderful. Even now you can enjoy our warm autumn season on the Islands sea shores. As the golden beaches of the Isle of Wight, always attract many late holidaymakers every year. In addition to the wide range of attractions, fun, amusement events, festivals, historical places of interest, Isle of Wight is famous for its rich beach and coastal walks. Isle of Wight Tourism is happy to provide people with information on many walks and rambles.
People who are born near the seaside get very used to going to the beach and having recreational fun in and out of the water. Children like to play in the sand, build sandcastles, families enjoy picnics and romantic pairs take pleasurable loving strolls with each other, listening to the waves striking against the coastal rocks. Why don’t I give you a sample of some of the IOW beaches describing their delights and secrets. Sandown bay is a traditional family resort famous for its long golden sandy beach.
The pier is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The sea air is wonderful, and a walk along the coastal path towards Bembridge is the best way to enjoy it, while savoring the stunning scenery from the top of Culver Down on your way. If you find time to tear yourself away from the beach, you can discover that the town has a nice choice of restaurants and along with many local pubs. Do tell the children that the area around Sandown Bay is a good place to go fossil hunting which will keep them amused for hours as they scour the rock pools for a prehistoric find! This year the beaches received a Blue Flag Beach Award for its high standards.
Shanklin beach which is situated a little further along the coast is also a long and sandy one, but not so rocky. Do take time to admire Shanklin Chine which is a narrow gorge running down to the sea, filled with rare plants, a waterfall and lots of points of interest, such as PLUTO the famous Pipeline Under The Ocean, which kept the troops on D Day supplied with water, oil and petrol. Moving up at the top of the gorge you will discover the Old Village with its thatched cottages, tearooms and small shops all greeting the visitor with open arms and cream teas. The town itself has a good choice of restaurants, cafes and pubs; again In 2009 Shanklin beach also received an award of the Marine Conservation Society Good Beach Guide.

Photo by Christine Matthews
Form Shanklin one can walk all the way around to Ventnor, which is a seaside resort with a very long tradition, perfect for family holiday and is wonderfully Victorian and very picturesque.
Ventnor nestles in the shelter of steep sided hills, and was the seaside town of choice in Victorian times because of its mild climate and therapeutic sea air. Its sandy beach is great for relaxation and the new harbour is a great place to hire a fishing boat or take a afternoon trip on one of the marine trips. A walk along the coast path takes you to the famous twenty two acres Botanic Gardens, a dream to walk around and peruse the trees and flowers and you must while there nip down to visit Steephill Cove, one of the islands` many hidden gems, it is so wonderful and I am sure you will remember it forever. You can buy fresh and delicious lobster and crab here at several of the eateries. Ventnor beach is tranquil and comfortable beach. The beach also received the Marine Conservation Society Good Beach Guide 2009 award.
Now you can choose from my little list a beach that best suits your taste. For me it will always be Steephill Cove. Do not hesitate to find a fitting Isle of Wight accommodation looking for all on the internet.
Parks of The Isle of Wight
What is would you say was a super and great pastime for both adults and children alike? Immediately holiday time together comes to mind as it is the most favourite and lovely pastime for any family to enjoy on an annual basis. We all love having wonderful times with our dear ones and close friends. The grown-ups can have a drink and relax while the children enjoy the many days away from school, having a super and nice time with friends and not just sitting in front of computer and playing electronic games, but walking and cycling, jumping around and generally having fun.
Where can you find such a nice place to relax and rest? Well may I suggest you try the beautiful and green Isle of Wight. There is a great spirit on the Island brining enjoyment and service to its visitors is one of the main thrusts of the many tourism businesses. As well as this the traveler will notice immediately that the pace of life changes as soon as you cross the Solent and set foot onto the Island, it’s a magical place of beauty with the most splendid scenery. I would like to provide you with some information on a few of the main attractions and parks on the IOW. Your children will find that there are many things to do and see within them.
One of the popular attractions on the IOW is Dinosaur Isle- an Interactive dinosaur museum.
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This park is located in Sandown. It is a really nice and stunning area, where you can see and play with Interactive displays, large fossil collections, alongside is an extensive gift shop, this is an all weather attractions and is open all the year round. You can have a walk into past and then back to future, contemplating the history and development of the civilization of dinosaurs that lived 120 million years ago. There is also a great collection of all kinds of dinosaurs fossilized remains.

Their sizes will surprise you as they are their natural size which means BIG! Do not be scared as they are just skeletons, but very, very long ago a world of dinosaurs ruled the Isle of Wight.
The next attraction and park is Robin Hill Country Park.

Set in picturesque country side, it is an ideal place for children’s parties and the playing of games. There are five new woodland gardens to rest in and explore so something for the whole family. Here you have a great opportunity to see and take pictures of the rare red squirrel. This is great fun for the kids as squirrel spotting can take many hours of hunting to find the right picture,. It is a real fun for kids!
The thirds alternative is Fort Victoria to the West of the Wight, situated on the north side of the Solent. Here you can see the following attractions, the Marine Aquarium, and Archaeology Exhibition, Planetarium and Model Railway. Again I t is an opportunity to combine leisure time with super educational themes. It is a very good place to view vintage boats and ships in action as the views across the narrow straits between the Island and the mainland is narrow and very busy. After having a super walk you can have lunch at Verdi’s Cafe.
Here are just some parks and attraction options found on the Isle of Wight. However, there is a great amount of Isle of Wight attractions. Choose whatever you want and have a great day out! IOW Tourism welcomes you!

