That’s because Lonely Planet, who produce some of the most popular travels guides, have placed the Isle of Wight in the top ten of cycling routes in the World.

Yes folks, we’re sitting alongside the likes of Otago Peninsula in New Zealand, Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy and Mont Ventoux in France.

Here is their entry for the Island.

ISLE OF WIGHT, ENGLAND
The Isle of Wight is a cycling paradise that is home to some of the UK’s most varied terrain: lush velvet hills rolling into the sea, narrow lanes through tidy hedgerows, deep and mysterious green gullies, and the island’s most striking feature, the ridge of white chalk cliffs stretching across its breadth. Although cyclists have been enjoying its outdoor pleasures for decades now, it’s only been in recent years that Wight has started to attract young and trendy Londoners looking for a romantic weekend by the sea with a buzz – which gastropubs, slick hotels and a calendar full of festivals now provide.

 Isle of Wight Walking & Cycling Holidays.                      Wight Wanders are an Isle of Wight company specialising in Self Led Walking & Cyclingholidays on the Isle of Wight.  Wight Walks and Wight Bike offer self led trekking vacations follow along some of the Isle of Wight’s 500 miles of footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths. Explore the Isle of Wight travling from one place to another carrying only your day sack. We will move your luggage to your next stop so it’s ready and waiting for you when you arrive after your days exploring the Islands trails. Experience a walking or cycling holiday designed by locals on the Isle of Wight and enjoy that personal touch. Singles, couples or groups are all welcome with routes and difficulties to suit all abilities. Walk the famous 69 mile Isle of Wight Coastal Path or experience tranquil inland routes as they wander through areas of outstanding natural beauty.