Vacationing on the Isle of Wight

This would not be a normal vacation for me and that's for sure. I'm usually a beach and/or cruise person. Preferably both if I can pull it off. I love the beach and the sunshine. But I had never considered the Isle of Wight. While researching my 2009 vacation, I saw an advertisement for Isle of Wight Hotels. I had never really thought of that. Until I saw one of my favorite words...Sale. That changes your mind pretty quickly. Especially when it's quite a nicely discounted rate you're getting.

Now you may be asking yourself what's so special about the Isle of Wight. Well here are a few quick facts about the island. The Isle of Wight is an English island and county in the English Channel between three and five miles (8 km) from the south coast of England. It is situated south of the county of Hampshire and is separated from the mainland by the Solent. Popular since Victorian times as a holiday resort, the Isle of Wight is known for its outstanding natural beauty and for its world-famous sailing based in Cowes.

Cowes is a world-famous centre for sailing, playing host to several racing regattas. Cowes Week is the longest-running regular regatta in the world, with over 1,000 yachts and 8,500 competitors taking part in over 50 classes of yacht racing. In 1851 the first America's Cup race took place around the Island. Other major sailing events hosted in Cowes include the Fastnet race, the Round the Island Race[17], the Admiral's Cup, and the Commodore's Cup.

The Isle of Wight Marathon is the United Kingdom's oldest continuously held marathon, having been run every year since 1957. The course starts in Ryde, passing through Newport, Shanklin and Sandown, before finishing back in Ryde. It is an undulating course with a total climb of 1,505 feet (459 m).


There are less than 132,000 residents on the island. Meaning that it's a small tight-knit community. Consider the Isle of Wight for your next vacation. While you're at it, check out the sales where you can get a great vacation for a fantastic price.