WELLNESS
on the Isle of Wight
As well as being a playground for action and adventure, the Isle of Wight offers a relaxing retreat from the bustle of every day life, with an abundance of opportunities to nourish your mind, body and soul.
From making a splash at the beach and reconnecting with nature, to spa experiences and good food - we've got you covered. And of course, there are plenty of seaside cafes, traditional pubs, and interesting landmarks to discover along the way.
top up on vitamin sea
Did you know sea air offers a multitude of health benefits? Due to a mineral-laden composition and absence of allergens and pollution, you can expect a boost in respiratory health and immune response. Plus, just sitting or strolling beside any of the Island’s beaches can promote restful sleep, thanks to the combination of invigorating fresh air and exposure to daylight. It’s also believed sea air has a positive impact on skin, with salt acting as a natural exfoliant, and negative ions working as powerful antioxidants. Head to the seaside in the evening to catch some of the Island's spectacular sunsets.
eat well
A foodie’s paradise, the Isle of Wight is a hotbed for local and artisanal produce, fresh from the farm to your table. Garlic lovers should head to the Garlic Farm shop & cafe for all things allium, while sweet, sunsoaked Isle of Wight Tomatoes are grown in the heart of the fertile Arreton valley, and appear on menus all over the Island! Discover delicious seafood spots across the Isle, traditional pubs, and other beautiful establishments offering dinner with a view. If you’d rather cook up a storm or pack up a picnic, Harvey Browns is a one-stop-shop for local ingredients, condiments, and tempting treats - also offering high quality seasonal dishes in their onsite café. Discover the flavours of the Island whilst supporting sustainable agriculture and minimising food miles – great for your body and for the planet!
Make a splash
One of the UK’s fastest growing wellness trends, open water swimming can see you reap a range of health rewards such as enhanced circulation, cardiovascular health and immune response, as well as increased energy and endorphin levels. Many of the Island’s beaches have gently lapping waters and a gradual incline, perfect for beginners – try Gurnard, Bonchurch or St Helen’s for a relaxing dip. If you're already a keen swimmer, why not try your hand at something new? iSurf offer kayak, surf or paddle board rentals and tuition with locations in Sandown and Freshwater. Wherever you choose to swim, make sure to swim safely and check out this RNLI guide.
get outdoors
Everyone knows the benefits of regular exercise, and if you’re struggling to get those steps in, why not explore some of the Island’s popular walking trails? With some of the most scenic routes in the UK, you’ll barely notice the distance covered when you’re taking in spectacular seascapes, with the gentle crashing of waves forming a soothing soundtrack to your stroll. Whether you prefer the fairy cottage core of woodland walks, or the sparkling blues of shoreline surf, you’ll find a route for all interests and abilities. Check out our walking route recommendations to get you started, and see if you can even spot red squirrels along the way! A gentle stroll around Ventnor Botanic Gardens is another great way to wile away a few hours, taking in the tropical plants and resident Ventnor lizards.
hang out with the stars
With significantly lower levels of light pollution than the rest of the UK, the Isle of Wight is a superb spot for taking in the ethereal beauty of the cosmos. Clear summer nights are ideal for observing the annual Perseid meteor shower, which peaks between 12 & 13 August with an average of 40 meteors an hour! Top stargazing spots include Fort Victoria Country Park, Compton Bay, Culver Down, and Freshwater Bay – where you can find convenient car parks nearby. Every Thursday from 8pm, you can even visit the observatory at Vectis Astronomical Society – admission is free of charge, though donations are welcomed. A wonderful way to unwind, don't forget a cosy blanket or chairs.
treat yourself
To treat yourself or someone special, indulge in a luxury champagne tea at The Royal Hotel, or opt for a traditional Victorian Afternoon Tea in a fascinating setting at historic Albert Cottage Hotel, formerly part of Queen Victoria's Osborne estate. Alternatively, discover soothing pamper packages at The Cabin in sunny Ventnor, with a wide range of treatments from massages to facials - including options designed with men in mind. A trip to Cowes offers a unique retail therapy experience - just 25 mins from the mainland on our Red Jet service you can find a charming seafront town and high street lined with quirky independent shops, perfect for day-tripping.
Go retro
Take a trip down memory lane with a quintessentially British day at the seaside. On Shanklin Seafront you'll find glorious golden sand, three mini golf courses to choose from, and if you fancy a flutter, traditional penny arcades offering prizes. Round off your nostalgic visit with a Bayside fish and chip supper, or pop into Toppings Ice Cream and choose from over 40 flavours of ice cream, milkshakes, and more! Echo the happy times of childhood summers, or take your own family along to make new and cherished memories.
