The popular Isle of Wight Walking Festival marks its 25th anniversary with the launch of the Spring Walking Festival on Saturday (May 11).
Organised by Visit Isle of Wight, there are over a thousand walkers are expected to join volunteers on walks across the Island.
With over 70 walks on offer, there are still opportunities for exploration, including a unique journey through the solar system – a one-mile educational walk in Ventnor.
The ‘Walk Through The Heavens’ culminates in the opportunity to enjoy sandwiches and cakes on the terrace of the Wellington Hotel, and is available every day of the nine-day festival.
All of the walks are available to see on the IW Walking Festival website HERE.
Environmental awareness takes centre stage with events like the Sandown Litter Pick Walk and Project Seagrass fragment walk in Seaview.
Nature enthusiasts can join Whitwell’s Nettlecombe Farm feeding experience on May 14/15, for a slow-paced walk during feeding time for many of the inhabitants.
Meanwhile, the IW Ramblers host the Walking Festival Silver Anniversary Long Distance Ramble on May 19, covering 25km of the Island’s stunning rural and coastal landscapes.
To promote sustainability, many walks start near bus routes and train stations.
Amy Summers, sustainable travel, trade and exhibitions manager at Visit IOW, said: “The 25th anniversary of the IW Spring Walking Festival is an incredible chance to explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where approximately 50 per cent of the land is recognised as a National Natural Landscape [formally Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty].
“Right now, the Island is bursting in to life and there is no better way to enjoy this beautiful place than to step out of the car and enjoy the best definition of ‘slow travel’ and soak up the history, the nature and the wonder of the Isle of Wight.”
The Spring Walking Festival takes place between May 11 and 19.
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