What the West Wight has to offer:
The West of the Isle of Wight is an area of outstanding natural beauty show casing the Island's iconic feature, the Needles. The dramatic and unspoilt coastline of the West Wight is very popular with walkers, bird watchers, nature lovers and those seeking a quiet, tranquil environment in which stay.
You must visit
Compton Bay's long sandy beach spanning the south west is non-commercialised and unspoilt and a popular spot for surfing, great family fun days out and for fascinating fossil finding. On the north west side sailors love to moor their boats in the safe harbour and step ashore to enjoy the old world charm of Yarmouth, with its variety of shops, superb pubs and restaurants and the 700 foot long pier boasting the splendour of the Victorian era.
Attractions
Yarmouth Castle, Isle of Wight provides a magnificent picnic spot, with views over the Solent for a lovely relaxing family day by the sea. The Needles Park Chairlift continues to be a firm favourite with, the views are truly spectacular from the picturesque Needles Rocks and lighthouse to the multi-coloured sand cliffs, also look out for the marvellous turquoise colour of the sea.
Freshwater Bay golf course is one of the most spectacular courses in the UK. Set on the downlands overlooking the English Channel, this seaside links style course is 5,725 yards long, par 68 which provides a challenge for golfers of all abilities. Visitors are most welcome. Calbourne Water Mill, set in 10 acres of stunning rural landscape contains one of the oldest working water mills in the country, dating back to the Domesday Book. A great day out for all the family.
Walking
The Tennyson Trail is a 15 mile walk from Carisbrooke Castle to The Needles. The route follows across Bowcombe Down, through Brighstone Forest, across Mottistone Down, Brook Down & Afton Down to Freshwater Bay, then onto Tennyson Down & across West High Down to Alum Bay. The name of the trail comes from poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, a former resident of the Isle of Wight. There are several points of interest along the walk, including The Tennyson Monument on Tennyson Down and the spectacular view of The Needles.
Places to eat
Spoilt for choice, from the opulence of the George Hotel in Yarmouth to fish and chips with fantastic view from Totland pier. Together with a good a selection of cafes and pubs all pallets and budgets can be catered for.