Hi everyone!
I'm planning to go on a route around the Isle of Wight, which is a part of UK I have always felt curious about but never visited. I have seen this route which seems pretty interesting and easy to start with.
I'm planning togo on mid February/early March. Who is in?
Hi Sarahbiker,
I live on the Isle of Wight, and would be more than willing to act as a guide for your tour if you think it's relevant.
With regards to the round the island route, I've done it a few times. I've usually started from Cowes, and have tried cycling in both directions. There's pro's and cons with each. Cycling in clockwise direction does mean getting the worst of the climbing in the Shanklin, Ventnor, Blackgang areas out of the way first, but it does still leave you with a 10 mile ride along the military road (basically a coastal road) which is very exposed and can be tough going if you end up cycling in to a prevailing wind of any force.
Cycling anti-clockwise is much easier in the earlier stages (perhaps apart from one major climb coming out of Freshwater) and if you're lucky you can almost sail down the military road to Blackgang. From that point the frequency and the gradient of the climbs becomes a bit more of a challenge.
Whatever way you decide to go, the same fantastic scenery is there to enjoy. It is also worth noting that although we do have quite a few hills and climbs over here, the highest point on the whole island is still only 240 metres above sea level. Although the gradients can be a bit steep in places, you're never likely to be cycling uphill for too much more than about half a mile at a time.
Also, although the round the island ride is the most obvious route, there's a lot to see inland too.
Hope some of this has been helpful, and do please let me know if I can help with anything else.
