About the Isles of Wight - WALKING

Over half the Isle of Wight is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including over 50 miles of Heritage Coast both part of the national family of protected landscapes recognised and treasured for their special qualities and character.

Criss-crossed as it is by more than 500 miles of well-maintained and signposted footpaths, the Isle of Wight is ideal for a UK walking holiday.

Walking is still the most popular activity with visitors and hosts the largest Walking Festival in the UK. Winding through field and forest and round the coast these footpaths give access to every corner of the Island - including many fascinating towns and villages. Over half of the Island is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Island's amazing variety of countryside means it offers a wide range of habitants. You can stroll through the forest and see Red Squirrels. .

There are many organised guided walks throughout the year. For something a little different, how do you fancy a spinechilling Ghost Walk. Walks take place from Easter - October. Numbers are limited so booking is essential on these walks. .

The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is a fantastic way to explore the Island covering 67 miles of well maintained paths. .

The walking is easy on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path with generally only mild ascents and descents to be made en route, though some are steeper. The northern sections spend more time away from the coast itself than the others, but this tends to be necessitated by the lay of the land and it happens pretty infrequently considering the rest of the route. .

There is much to be seen on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path with striking chalk geology featuring heavily in the south and west. There are great views out to sea and many interesting places to visit, reflecting the island's heritage and royal patronage over the years. .

It should be noted that many of the cliff edges can be unstable, so you should make a point of not venturing too near to them .

PTGH wish to thank www.islandbreaks.co.uk for their help in providing the above information 01/10/09