OUTDOOR ISLAND
adventures
The Isle of Wight’s contrasting landscapes, rugged coastline, flat sandy beaches, and unique weather and microclimate, make it a playground for watersports and activities. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find some of the best (and most challenging) Isle of Wight adventures in the great outdoors.
KAYAKING A kayak’s combination of stability and manoeuvrability gives it the edge over paddleboards for those chasing adventure. Covering a distance against a tide is an intense workout but you’ll be rewarded with beaches and bays which few have stepped on. The first challenge is to battle through the breaking waves – approaching them head on is the only option. Once you reach calmer waters, you’ll see tantalising glimpses of unoccupied bays with looming cliffs and perilous caves. Adventurers with their own kayaks often visit Newtown Creek or tackle the choppy waters of Freshwater Bay, Brook or Compton. Inexperienced kayakers should sign up for an expert-led “safari session” with Tackt-Isle. tackt-isle.co.uk
COASTEERING One of the most hands-on ways to explore parts of the Island’s rugged coastline is to sign yourself up to a coasteering session. You’ll find yourself scrambling around the shore, hopping over rocks, cliff diving, riding the surges in the swell, and discovering hidden caves. This activity will grant you access to various locations and views that are generally off limits, unless you’re travelling by boat or paddleboard; but it’s not for the faint-hearted. The right equipment and an experienced guide who knows the tides are essential. The best (and safest) way to enjoy one of these adventures is to sign up to a guided coasteering experience with Freshwater Bay Coasteering. fbciow.com REDFUNNEL.CO.UK
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