Isle of Wight Travel Forum

Hi, I want to take my girlfriend out somewhere on the Island but I want to go somewhere quiet, somewhere not many people go, but is accessable for buses etc so we can get there and back ok. Last weekend we walked along Ryde beach in the evening and that was good, but I want something a little bit different to supprise her. Got any ideas?

Rob

There's a lovely walk heading north out of St Helens over the Duver sand dunes and along the rocky coastline.

Hop off the bus in St Helens at the anchor (the driver will know what you mean) and walk straight up to the harbour. Turn left here and head across a narrow sea wall...to the left is a pool with swans, to the right is a wonderful view over the harbour to Bembridge.

You then come to the dunes, covered with grass and shrubs and full of rabbit holes. Heading on to the beach, there is a row of colourful huts and a mixed sandy/pebbly beach. Follow the beach north, enjoying the views out to sea...you'll probably spot ships heading into Portsmouth and will see the forts in the Solent.

You'll come to St Helens church tower, the rest of the church has fallen into the sea. From here you can follow the coast, it's rockier and more remote, with nothing but trees to your left and the Solent to your right. It gets tricky and it's a long walk, but a couple miles further along is charming Seaview. More on my travel pages.

Just one of my fave spots on the IoW, the whole island has a great network of trails and bus routes, you really can't go wrong anywhere you go!

Happy travels.