OUR FAVOURITE ISLAND WINTER WALKS
This winter we encourage you to pop on your wellies, grab your Balance + Glo beanie, and get outside in the fresh air.
Based on the island, or planning a visit, Co-Founder Evelyn has put together a list of the team’s favourite autumnal walks.
Isle of Wight Walks
As a new mum, I recognise the importance of getting out in the fresh air. I’ve found it a great way to gentle build my fitness, break up the day, and have found it often sends Romilly to sleep! I tend to stick to the walks I know, so it was great to speak to the team about their favourite walking routes. Looking forward to trying these out over the next few months.
My Favourite Walk (Co-Founder, Evelyn): Mottistone Downs (3.8km, approximately 55 minutes)
Overview: This is a relatively short circular walk (just less than 1 hour), which takes in expansive views of the downs before heading back down through the forest. There are lots of little offshoots, where you can explore or shelter from the rain. I love the walk up, filling the lungs and breathing in the island air.
Refreshments: Warm-up (and dry off) by the fire at Chessell Pottery with a hot drink and generous slice of cake.
“I love this walk even on a windy day. Stomping up the downs is a great way to blow away any cobwebs and fill the lungs with the fresh island air.”
Kimmi (Photographer): Mill Copse (5.5km, approximately 1.5 hours)
Overview: This is a slightly longer circular walk which takes you through Mill Copse, a 400 year old ancient woodland. This walk starts and ends at Off The Rails.
Refreshments: Finish your walk with a delicious roast at Off The Rails - the perfect Sunday activities!
“I love basking in the rays of light that bleed through the VERY TALL trees. It’s sheltered and magical and smells great. Jude loves it too, when he’s not asleep!”
Olivia (Yoga teacher and marketing Lead): Tennyson Downs (11.2km, approximately 2.5 hours)
Overview: This is a great walk on a clear day, as it takes in the highest point (marked by the Tennyson Monument) on the chalk cliffs of the West Wight, 482ft (147m) above sea level. You take 360 degree views across the Solent. If you’re lucky you may be able to spot a seal or dolphin. You can either do this as a 7 mile walk or choose one of two shorter walks.
Refreshments: Fuel the walk with brunch at the Piano Cafe, or finish with tea and cake.
“I love the walk from Piano Cafe up to the Tennyson monument. It’s worth the climb for the insane 360 views and the long sweeping downhill towards Freshwater Bay is dreamy!”
Pippa (Skincare Expert): St Helens and Priory Bay (7.8km, approximately 2 hours)
Overview: This coastal path walk winds through woodland before brining you out to St Helen’s Duver.
Refreshments: There is a coffee truck at Seagrove Bay which does great coffee and cakes.
“The walk is very special to me as it’s near where I grew up. It’s quite remote and takes in lots of different scenery.”
Emma (Yoga Teacher) - St Catherines Lighthouse (3.5km, 1.15 hours)
Overview: Visit the southernmost tip of the island with a gentle walk to St Catherine’s Lighthouse. This is one of my favourite island walks with amazing views.
Refreshments: Head into Ventnor for post walk refreshments, we love Cantina.
“This walk showcases the island’s coastline so well. I feel so free/open in the space.”
Of you follow one of our favourite walks, please tag us in your photographs. We love seeing you exploring the beautiful island.
