The Isle of Wight at Leisure

03rd - 7th September 2012

Monday – An after breakfast journey to Portsmouth for the 35 minute crossing to the Isle of Wight. On disembarkation we take the short journey to Sandown for an extended lunch break and promenade stroll. During mid afternoon we continue to our hotel with time to explore before evening dinner.

Tuesday - Relax over breakfast, then  a round island tour. We head to Ventnor to visit the Ventnor Botanic Gardens. Ventnor Botanic Garden lies in the remarkable microclimate at the heart of the famous ‘Undercliff.’ This unique garden is protected from the cold northerly winds and it holds the warmth from its southerly aspect. The garden is unrivalled for its collections of subtropical plants grown unprotected out of doors. Continue via Brighstone, where an interesting stop can be made at Isle of Wight Pearl. Next, we journey to Alum Bay, which is an ideal tea stop. Alum Bay is famous for its multicoloured sand cliffs and breathtaking views of The Needles and lighthouse. Dare to take the chair lift over the cliffs! We return to the hotel in plenty of time to relax before dinner.

Wednesday - Breakfast at leisure then enjoy a free day on the island (don’t forget your bus pass!) Shanklin Old Village is a favourite attraction, where most of the picturesque cottages clustered around the thatched Crab Inn have now become craft and gift shops or restaurants. Alternatively explore the island on the railways. Evening dinner concludes the day.

Thursday - Breakfast is followed by our morning tour of the famous Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s island retreat. A spacious new visitor centre provides an excellent introduction to our visit. Highlights of Osborne House include the lavishly furnished State Rooms and glorious grounds and gardens. Later we travel to Ryde for some free time and a stop at the Rosemary Vineyard. Ideally placed to make the most of the mild Island climate. All English wine, liqueurs, juices and ciders are made on the estate from grapes / apples grown on the estate. Relax and enjoy a taste of the good life in this peaceful setting. Time to enjoy your last evening before dinner.

Friday - After breakfast and check out we take the short journey to Godshill. With its charming thatched-roofed cottages, delightful medieval church and a winding main street lined with tearooms, Godshill is the quintessential English Village. Then its a lunchtime departure to check in at Fishbourne for the return ferry to Portsmouth Harbour. On arrival there we continue to the local area with fond memories of a truly relaxing and reward ShortBreak.

• The Hotel:

The Melbourne Ardenlea Hotel, Shanklin is a comfortable, family run hotel, located in a quiet position one street back from the cliff top and a 15 minute walk from Shanklin Old Village.  All rooms come with an en suite bathroom, bathroom amenities and tea/coffee facilities. Guests are offered a warm welcome, good food and regular entertainment. There is a lift to some floors, an indoor pool and a pleasant garden with outdoor seating.

• What’s Included:

All coach travel, short channel ferry crossings, welcome drink on arrival at hotel, porterage, 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast, excursions as listed, entry to Ventnor Botanic Gardens, Osbourne House & Rosemary Vineyard, complimentary on board coach drinks, a Travel & Information pack and the services of a Tour Director throughout.

• £359.00 Single Supplement £54

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