Its stark chalk cliffs may be a visible across the Solent from the mainland, but arriving on the Isle of Wight is like entering another world. From the famous coloured sands at Alum bay, to its status as dinosaur capital of the UK, this special island has a magical feel.
Of course, the sea plays an integral part of anybody’s visit. Sailing around the island is world-class, while its plethora of sheltered bays makes it a top spot for family holidays too.
The exterior of Little Chert, Isle of WightNational Trust / Mike Henton
On the Isle of Wight the sea’s never too far away. From Little Chert it’s just under a mile to the local beach at St Lawrence, and a short stroll along the coast to Ventor, one of the main towns in the south of the island.
Just outside the village of St. Helens you’ll find Old Church Lodge, a beautiful Victorian cottage complete with a secluded garden. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Duver, a beach popular with sea birds, is close by.
Perched on a hill with breath-taking views of imposing chalk cliffs, the location of 1 Compton Farm Cottages couldn’t be more dramatic. Beautiful coastal walks are in abundance around the site, and the stunning Compton Bay is an easy walk away.
A picture perfect retreat in one of the Isle of Wight’s most beautiful villages, Rose Cottage is a well-placed spot from which to explore the island’s east coast. The National Trust’s Mottistone Manor is a must see, as are its lavish, sheltered gardens.
The Old Club House once served members of the Royal Isle of Wight Golf Club, today it’s a unique holiday cottage in an equally unique setting near the village of St Helens. A particularly accessible retreat, The Old Club House has been cleverly adapted to accommodate disabled visitors.
The views from Knowles Farm Cottage are unparalleled. Perched on St Catherine's Point, the Isle of Wight’s most southerly spot, the sea appears to stretch out endlessly before meeting the rocky shoreline, a short walk from the cottage. This really is one of the island’s most enchanted areas.
Gentle cliffs slope down towards Totland Bay on the famous Needles Headland, part of a large area of protected downland rich in native wildflower. In a prime position overlooking the bay is Pomone, a former coastguard cottage now open to holiday makers.
Away from the coast, Wydcombe Cottage is surrounded by rolling green hills and the perfect place from which to explore the Isle of Wight’s southern interior. A prime location for walkers, there are more than one refuelling spots in the pretty villages that surround the cottage.
A spacious property located on the seafront of Cowes, the Isle of Wight’s most well-known town, this is the perfect place to come for a large group holiday. Of course, sailing fans are in for a real treat during Cowes Week with front row seats for all the action.
Large, impressive and utterly striking, Mottistone Manor Farmhouse is surrounded by magnificent scenery. Follow in the footsteps of Tennyson, there is a monument to the poet an easy walk from the cottage, and get inspired by this picturesque, quietly beautiful corner of the island.
