Call 01983 281662 now to book this holiday.

MBT4

MBT

The Isle of Wight Off-Road Randonnee

A gentle introduction to the Isle of Wight Off-Road Randonnee with a level ride from Yarmouth following the old railway line passing through the marshes on one side and the river Yar on the other to Freshwater. The first of the climbs begins as you pass through Freshwater Golf course to the top of the Downs and the famous Tennyson trail with far reaching views to Needles and beyond. Long sections of open track lead across the downs with steep inclines and fast downhill runs into the village of Shorwell and its quaint village pub and trout stream. Leaving Shorwell you pass farms and Manor Houses before climbing to the Hoy Monument at the top of St Catherine’s Down.

Dropping down from St Catherine’s and join the Yar river trail in Niton and onto the small village of Whitwell and its thatched pub. A gentle climb past fishing lakes followed by a steeper assent to the top of Stenbury down with views to all corners of the Isle of Wight. Passing through Freemantle Gate and a gentle run down into the village of Wroxall with pubs and shops.

Climbing back out of Wroxall to a spaghetti junction of footpaths and bridle paths at the top of St Martins down and descend the other side and under the steam railway line. The next section is flatter as it meanders through small woods and open farmland before passing through the outskirts of Newport the Island’s capital.

Passing close to Carisbrooke Castle you re-join the Tennyson Trail as it climbs back onto the down lands of Bowcombe. The wide open track runs across the downs with farm land starching away either side into the distance. Passing various tumuli you enter the Brighstone and onto Westover Down. Leaving the downs for the last time you wander across open farm land and sleepy villages before returning once again to the port of Yarmouth.

Throughout the route there are many opportunities to take detours into villages or local attractions. If you fancy longer days then no problem we offer various excursions off of the main route. These extensions to the route will always be from the main round Island route and circle back
to re-join it either in the same place or a little further along. We will supply a list of these options when you arrive.