Countryside
The Isle of Wight is home to some of the most diverse countryside in the UK, and what better way to unwind than to get out into the fresh air and explore?
It is an Island of extreme diversity, there is lush green countryside, ancient forests, woods and villages, all framed by a coastline as dramatic as it is beautiful.
Venture a little off the beaten track and you will be rewarded with scenery that will take you breath away.
Over half the Island is recognised as an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty with nearly 30 miles of the seashore designated as Heritage Coast, an accolade applied only to coastlines of the highest quality in England and Wales.
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or something more energetic, you can discover historic farms, pretty lanes, thatched villages, coastal trails and woodlands. It's easy to find your way around, with over 500 miles of carefully maintained footpaths and signposts to follow.
The Isle of Wight was the first UK county to be given national recognition by the Countryside Commission for the maintainence and signposting of its footpaths and bridleways. Walking, cycling and bird watching are popular all year round and every May the Island hosts the UK's largest annual walking festival.
Whatever you choose to do - whether it's following a pub walk, hiring bikes, or wandering along secluded coves, your time on the Isle of Wight is something the whole family will enjoy. See our visitor attractions pages for details of the National Trust owned Downs and other natural attractions on the Isle of Wight.
Gift to nature
Gift to nature is a new scheme on the Island which gives visitors the opportunity to put something back into the Island's environment. With the support of Island business, Gift to Nature aims to show how tourism and conservation can help each other. Many tourism businesses on the Island are participating in Gift to Nature by asking their customers to make a voluntary donation through collection envelopes or by adding a small, optional supplement to the accommodation bill.
Other areas in the UK and across Europe have tried this approach, called "visitor payback" and have found it to be generously supported by visitors. In return, the tourism industry can develop more of a caring reputation by demonstrating how tourism can positively help the local environment. All of the money raised through Gift To Nature will be spent on the Isle of Wight on local conservation projects. Visit the Gift To Nature web site at www.gifttonature.co.uk to find out more about the scheme.
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