The ferry over to the IOW is a pretty relaxed affair compared to those crossing international boarders. They go frequently and people commute over them. None of the whole turning up hours before hand. It was dark so the first impressions of the island were hard to give.
We kicked things off in tourist mode heading to the Needles – the only spot anyone has really heard of. No doubt a bit of a circus in season, but in late autumn it was pretty quiet. We enjoyed the chalk cliffs which look so different to the scenery we are used to and walking along the coastal path.
We were based in Brook on the west side of the Island. It is pretty rural and pleasant with easy access to big beaches at low tide. Again a great spot to walk the dog whilst admiring the chalk cliffs.
We drove to Gurnard, parked up and walked towards Cowes. It was cool looking back towards the mainland and figuring out where places were. It goes without saying sailing is a big deal round here. Fun to watch. We met up with Lance and went for a light wind wing followed by a pint and dinner.
The wet weather came in. We headed to Shanklin for brunch. The waves crashing onto the sea wall looked pretty cool making spray fly upwards. Obviously the second the camera came out it just wouldn’t happen with anywhere near the same power.
We went on a couple more wet walks. We will return in summer. There is obviously huge potential for good times on the Island.
