Seaside England on the Isle of Wight

There is so much more to Great Britain than London, but most tourists still seldom get out of the city. While seeing Buckingham Palace, the Tower, and the rest of London's famed sights is a must for the first time visitor, after a couple of days, wise travelers will head for the countryside.

Of the many quaint English towns, few compare to the Isle of Wight. The summer residence of Queen Victoria, this small island, only 12 miles (19km) long, sits just off the Hampshire coast. From early spring through late fall it is a popular getaway, and peak season comes with the high temperatures of summer.

Frequent ferry, hovercraft, hydrofoil and catamaran services from Southampton and Portsmouth plus a ferry from Lymington makes the island easily accessible. Upon arrival, rent a bike - the easiest way to get around the island.

Most of the island is wooded and hilly with cliffs looking out over a seaside English mirage of shapes and colors. Apart from its marvelous natural sights, the island has other charms to offer. It is famous for its annual sailing regatta, which takes place at the harbor at Cowes, as well as Osborne House where Queen Victoria spent her summers. The house is well preserved and an excellent example of the high domestic architecture of the epoch.

Isle of Wight's beaches are renowned for their golden sand as much as for their eclectic attractions. Crazy golf, amusement parks, riding, golf, fishing, and tennis are among the island's activities. Arguably, the most bizarre and pleasurable spot on the island is the rather camp theme park Backgang Chine. Situated on the rugged coast to the south of the main village of Chale, Blackgang summons up images of smugglers and tales of evil shipwreckers! Opened to the public in 1843 (well before Disney), this 40 acre park is now a fantasy fun park for children. Complete with a Cowboy Town, Dinosaurs, Pirates' Ship and a huge Boat Slide, the park pleases children ages 3 to 90.

Set in the parkland gardens amid mature trees adn winding paths leading to cliff steps and sandy beaches, the Isle's best accommodation is the charming gay guest house Rylstone Gardens, in the town of Shanklin. The Manor was privately built in 1863 and remained a gentlemen's residence until 1923. Though of Victorian proportions, the Manor also gestures to the Gothic, Tudor and Georgian periods. The many styles blend well, making the Manor delightfully unique, not only in its exterior, but also within. The old thatched village of Shanklin can be reached through the gardens and boasts an abundance of gift and tea shops.

The Rylstone Manor's fine cuisine is served in the intimate atmosphere of the candlelit dining room. The menu is updated daily and complimented by a comprehensive winelist boasting local island wines alongside Australian bottles. Dishes are prepared by the resident owner chefs. For aperitifs or an after dinner brandy, visit the adjacent bar lounge, where the peace and tranquility of Rylstone will make the visit one to remember.

For more information on the Isle of Wight, visit www.islandbreaks.co.uk.