Some will argue that the Isle of Wight is more known for outdoor exploration and palaeontology than romance, while it’s generally considered to be a family location rather than being home to getaways for loved-up young couples.
Still, romance is often in the eye of the beholder, while there are also a deceptive number of Isle of Wight getaways that could be described as being classically romantic.
But what are the most romantic getaways on the Isle of Wight, and what exactly do they offer to visitors? Here’s our take on the top three such getaways!
The Romance of a Dreamy Scenic Ramble Through Shanklin Chine
When you visit the Isle of Wight, it’s hard not to notice that the location is swamped with stunning greenery, towering cliffs and mile after mile of sprawling, often sun-kissed, coastline.
These characteristics themselves would make for a picturesque romantic walk on the Isle, whether this includes a morning stroll along the beach (hand-in-hand, of course) or a hike through one of the island’s stunning chines.
Certainly, the Shanklin Chine can provide an incredibly romantic backdrop for any young couple’s walk, especially during the evening hours. This chine, which is a steep-sided gorge that sees a number of springs flow into the similarly idyllic Sandown Bay, has always been one of the Isle of Wight’s most popular tourist attractions, and one that first opened to the public way back in 1817.
A walk through the Chine certainly exposes you to rich natural beauty and some stunningly rare plantlife, while at the end of the trail, you’ll even come out at the busy and bustling Shanklin Esplanade (where you can grab a bite to eat or perhaps enjoy some more traditional or high octane seaside activities).
At night time, the gorge is illuminated by 200 soft and subtle lights, with a select few LEDs even located underneath the chine’s various waterfalls. This is why the location is particularly romantic at night, and there’s no doubt that this sustained illumination enables you and your partner to enjoy the chine in a completely new light!
Outside of the chine, there are 70 miles of coastal paths to see on the Isle of Wight, including stunning ancient woodlands and towering forests. Here, you’ll find a number of outdoor Isle of Wight getaways, some of which may even combine a little romance with high-octane activity.
Check Out the Isle’s Unique and Romantic Range of Accommodation
If you’re a young couple who wants to enjoy one of the Isle of Wight’s quintessential weekend getaways, you’re also spoiled for choice when you visit the island.
This is certainly true when it comes to the variety of accommodation on offer on the isle, which is significant, to say the least.
But what exactly does this include?
Well, you could certainly consider glamping on the Isle of Wight, with locations such as Sibbecks Farm and Glamping the Wight Way both offering luxury accommodation (including luxury safari tents) that’s inclusive of their own shower, stove, running hot and cold water and undeniably spectacular views.
If glamping isn’t quite right for you, why not consider staying in one of the island’s numerous five-star hotels, including Haven Hall Hotel (which can cost up to £519 for a weekend stay) and Arreton Manor in Arreton? Both of these locations offer spectacular sea views, while also including lavish spa facilities and in-house treatments that are as soothing as they are romantic.
Of course, many getaways in the Isle of Wight also offer access to cosy cottages and coastal lodges to help you enjoy an even more romantic escape. One of the best such accommodations is the Landguard in Shanklin, which combines luxurious apartments and in and outdoor swimming pools with nearby beaches and outstanding family entertainment.
Regardless of your own unique idea of romance and preferred accommodation type, the Isle of Wight is capable of catering to every need and offering an intimate experience that will never be forgotten.
What About a Candlelit Dinner for Two?
When choosing romantic island getaways on the Isle of Wight, it’s also important to consider restaurants, eateries and the best places to enjoy a candlelit dinner for two.
Once again, not everyone’s idea of a romantic dinner will be the same, but whether you have a particular liking for traditional ‘pub grub’ or want to enjoy a true fine dining experience in soft light and an intimate setting, the Isle of Wight will be able to provide you with everything you’re looking for and more.
But which venues are the most popular among couples?
Well, Thompson’s definitely provides a high-quality option for visitors, with its a la carte dinner menu and a seasonal seven-course tasting menu that has been inspired by the unique flavours of the island. Then there’s the Royal Restaurant, which is another highly sophisticated choice with a menu that combines rare and special winners with high-quality local produce as part of a compelling ‘field-to-fork’ narrative.
If you have more simple tastes (or, let’s face it, a slightly lower budget), the good news is that you don’t have to compromise on quality when enjoying one of the Isle of Wight’s numerous getaways.
For example, the island’s streets are paved with a dazzling array of cosy cafes and tea rooms, with the Freshwater Coffee House, One Holyrood Tea Room and Quay Arts Cafe offering affordable but tasty dishes against the backdrop of some stunning seaside surroundings.
For those of you who are looking to enjoy some evening refreshments, we can also recommend the No 64 Shanklin bar. Make no mistake; this venue has a superb cocktail menu, with its excellent ‘Caramel Saltini’ particularly popular among locals and visitors alike.
Isle of Wight Getaways: The Last Word
Even with these Isle of Wight getaways, we have barely scratched the surface of what you can do on the island as a young couple. After all, the Isle also comes to life at night, as there are a number of outdoor spots where you can stargaze and bask in the pale light of the moon.
Regardless, you can rest assured that the Isle of Wight is the ideal location for young couples and those in search of a romantic adventure, so why not check out the island in more detail and see precisely what it has to offer you?
