The Best Isle of Wight Walks For Your Walking Holiday
Many who enjoy walking holidays aren’t aware that the Isle of Wight is a brilliant place for them to visit. In fact, the Island even runs a walking festival every year where you can participate in over 200 walks, which is perfect for anyone who prefers exploring new locations on foot. The Isle of Wight Walking Festival is actually one of the UK’s longest-running walking festivals too and every year thousands of walkers participate.
There really is no denying that there are so many picturesque walks here on the Isle of Wight and miles of accessible footpaths to choose from both in the countryside and on the coast, so there is something for everyone. Many like the fact that all of the Island walks are clearly signposted and easy to follow too, meaning you won’t need to worry about getting lost. To help holidaymakers who are keen to lace up their walking boots and set off on their next adventure, below are some of the best Isle of Wight walks.
Full coastal walk
We had to start with this incredible walk which provides you with the opportunity to see the whole of the Island. The Isle of Wight coastal path is an exhilarating walk and is just over 70 miles. Many make it all the way around the Island in 4 or 5 days and it is by far one of the best ways to see so many of the incredible sights that the Isle of Wight has to offer.
ABC of the downs walk
This is a circular walk starting from the Freshwater Cliffs, 400m east of Freshwater Bay, that will take you over the ridge of Afton, Brook and Compton Downs. You can guarantee that the views you’ll see along the way will be breathtaking and may consider it a good length at 7.5 miles. The ABC of the downs walk is dog friendly too if you’re planning on bringing your furry friend.
St Helens Duver walk
When looking for a shorter route that is suitable for the whole family, the St Helens Duver walk is a good option and it’s only 1.6 miles. This coastal walk enables you to explore St Helens Duver which is a sandy bit of land that is rich in wildlife and history. You could always stop for a while at the water’s edge for a picnic or to do some rock pooling if you wanted to as well.
Brading and Bembridge marsh walk
This trail is slightly longer again at 7 miles, but it provides you with the opportunity to visit the Isle of Wights only surviving windmill. With an ascent of 500ft, it is considered to be a moderate walk and with beautiful views of both the coast and countryside, you can take your time and enjoy everything the Brading and Bembridge marsh walk has to offer.
Dunsbury trail walk
If you have a couple of hours spare, this 3.5 mile walk takes you over the National Trust Dunsbury Estate. During this walk, you’re likely to meet lots of wildlife, yet many come to Dunsbury specifically to see the butterflies. If you’re lucky, you may see the rare Glanville fritillary butterfly that the Nation Trust and Butterfly Conservation are trying to safeguard.
The monk and the merchant walk
For anyone who is interested in history, this Isle of Wight walk is definitely one to consider. The monk and the merchant walk is just under 5 miles long and the view you get from St Catherine’s Down is spectacular, you can see for miles across the Island on a clear day. With a few different monuments on the route, you will never get bored either.
Planning your Isle of Wight walking holiday
All in all, whether you’re an adventurous walker and you’re wanting to tackle some long and difficult walks or you’re more of a casual walker and you’d prefer to take a shorter stroll, there is something for everyone on the Island. It is fair to say that one of the best ways to see the beauty that the Isle of Wight has to offer is by foot and even if you’re not necessarily on a ‘walking holiday’ we would recommend that you explore some of the country walks and coastal paths.
If you’d like to find out more about any of the Isle of Wight walks mentioned above or if you’re wondering what other trails and paths there are, be sure to browse the rest of our website. Of course, if you’re tackling the full coastal walk and you’re searching for different places to stay or places to eat on the route, we have you covered. Should you require any further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team, they’re always happy to help.
