Isle of Wight Walking Festival returns for 2021
After an 18 month hiatus, the Isle of Wight Walking Festival returns in October 2021.
The popular event, which sees thousands travel from across the UK and Europe to take part, will host up to 100 walks, led by enthusiastic guides, keen to share their love of the Isle of Wight and its beautiful scenery, history and natural environment.
From October 9 to October 22, the Isle of Walking Festival promises to be a celebration of the great outdoors.
Awarded UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Status in 2019, the Isle of Wight has long been recognised as an ideal destination for walking, with a large variety of routes for walkers of all abilities.
Over 50% of the Isle of Wight is also classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty [AONB], adding to the popularity of the destination which has long held a special place in the hearts of visitors.
Walkers can look forward to a plethora of trails with themes and interests to suit everyone. In past years the event has seen everything from wild hikes to a Dodgy Knee Walk, with the 2021 festival promising that and more.
Organised by Visit Isle of Wight, the Walking Festival is seen as a key part of the Island’s activity calendar.
Will Myles, MD at Visit Isle of Wight, said:
‘After an 18 month delay, it is absolutely fantastic to welcome back the Isle of Wight Walking Festival!
‘Where better than the Isle of Wight, which has been recognised with UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Status to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Over 50% off the Island is classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and this October will be an excellent chance to get out and enjoy the autumn.
‘We’ve all spent so much of the last year and a half cooped up inside, now is the time to explore the Isle of Wight, accompanied by experienced and enthusiastic guides as part of the Walking Festival. There’s a huge variety of walks, with different themes – something for everyone!’
The October date for the Isle of Wight Walking Festival has been welcomed as an extension to the traditional holiday season.
Will Myles continued:
‘Part of Visit Isle of Wight’s work is to encourage more visitors to enjoy the Island all year round, and why wouldn’t you want to come in the autumn?
‘The colour of the natural landscape is simply stunning, the weather refreshing and with so many great places to stay and to enjoy the Isle of Wight’s famous hospitality, the Isle of Wight Walking Festival is not to be missed!
‘Keep an eye on our website, new walks are being added all the time, so make sure you’ve got your choices sorted!’
New walks will be added to the website over the coming weeks, to find out more sign up to the Isle of Wight Walking Festival Newsletter.