Prettiest places to stay and see on the Isle of Wight

Steephill Cove, Ventnor     

There’s much debate over the island’s best beach, but this pretty fishing cove is a real treasure. Despite it’s proximity to the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor, the sandy stretch remains a quiet idyll. There are three quirky holiday homes to rent here, The Lighthouse, The Boathouse and The Crow’s Nest, plus two superb crab restaurants where you can enjoy balmy evenings.
www.theboathouse-steephillcove.co.uk

The Needles

A firm tourist favourite, the iconic Needles rocks on the west coast of the island are a breathtaking sight. For the best views of the chalk outcrops, and of the famous multi-coloured sands of Alum Bay, enjoy a slow boat cruise or take the chairlift down to the beach.
www.theneedles.co.uk

Yarmouth town

A lovely little sailing harbor, Yarmouth has a salty vibe and great walks to the nearby countryside. Dine with the family at the popular Hot Rocks bistro, where diners cook their own meat and fish on large hot stones. For some more luxury visitors can dine and stay at The George, which has a slice of shingle beach where boaters beach their boats before lunch.

Newtown Creek

The only National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Wight and the prettiest spot on the whole island. This quiet backwater is backed by gently rolling hillsides and patchwork fields and feels quintessentially English. Walkers can enjoy flower-rich hay meadows, spot all types of wildlife and rare butterflies and watch sailing boats lie at anchor in the calm waters. The New Inn is a short hike away for thirsty, hungry visitors.

Unusual places to stay on the Isle of Wight

Shanklin Chine
This wooded ravine is the oldest tourist attraction on the island, with leafy scenery, exciting wildlife, rare plants and dramatic waterfalls. Add a little luxury by staying nearby in the 1920’s art deco Marine Villa, a mansion fit for the most discerning guests that promises unbeatable views of the sunrise from the master bedroom.
www.shanklinchine.co.uk
www.homeaway.co.uk

St Catherine's Point

Wild purple flowers adorn the landscape at this most southerly point of the island and sweeping green meadows stretch inland as far as the eye can see. Britain’s second oldest lighthouse is perched on the hill and guided tours are available. You can’t stay actually in the lighthouse, so book one of the three lighthouse keepers’ cottages instead,
www.ruralretreats.co.uk

Carisbrooke Castle

Climb to the top of the keep for spectacular vistas of rolling hills and well-kept countryside. Charles I was imprisoned here in months prior to his trial and he couldn’t have asked for more beautiful surrounds! Be the King of the castle and book a stay in the Bowling Green Apartment, if you’re not afraid of ghosts of course…
www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/carisbrooke-castle/

Osbourne House
“It’s impossible to imagine a prettier spot,” said Queen Victoria of her royal seaside palace in East Cowes. You can’t argue with her there; the majestic building is nestled in lush, green countryside and accentuated by manicured lawns and colourful flowers.Hole up in the Pavillion Cottage on site and enjoy access to the private beach.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/osborne

By Pippa Park