Chalky white cliffs and landslip jungles, remote ‘chines’ and long stretches of undeveloped coast – this unique island is a short hop from England’s south coast and is officially the sunniest place in Britain.
Best beaches for swimming: Isle of Wight
High cliffs protect miles of sand and shingle along the south-west coast, with access only possible via sheer ravines or ‘chines’, carved through the cliffs by streams and waterfalls.
The most dramatic, Shepherd’s Chine and Whale Chine are perfect places to swim and watch the sunset. On the south coast, Steephill Cove welcomed royal visitors in its heyday but, only accessible by foot, it feels like a hidden treasure, with little shacks serving fresh local crab. To the east, Ventnor’s microclimate attracts exotic plants and wildlife, like the famous wall lizards which sun themselves on stone walls
On a remote tidal estuary in the north-west, the sleepy hamlet of Newtown,is a peaceful place to end your explorations. In the 13th century, it was theIsle’s biggest town but the once-thriving port slowly silted up. The old port, amile’s walk across the wetlands, is submerged beneath marsh and mud, but itstill has a quay and is a magical place to swim.
Ready to explore further? Discover more wild swimming and off-the-tourist-track places in the Wild Swimming Britain and the Wild Guide South East
