Following our recent seafood obsession, a trip to Isle of Wight fulfilled our ideas of a relaxing weekend trip in all ways. A beautiful small island with gorgeous nature and fantastic seafood offered in many restaurants throughout the island is the right place for a long weekend getaway.
We took a ferry from Portsmouth when it was already dark and enjoyed a beautiful view of Portsmouth Harbour and the impressive Spinnaker Tower at night. Saturday morning offered another pleasing view over the famous golden sandy beach in Sandown which was still deserted as the season hasn't started yet.
Friday's weather was nice and sunny with very little wind, a perfect day for a coastal walk.
After a nice walk along the Bambridge coast we had to compensate for lost energy at The Crab & Lobster Inn which is located ideally almost on the beach. We delighted our taste buds with a fabulous cold crab and lobster platter for two.
Our Saturday trip started in a wonderful farm shop in Arreton Old Village. Artisan sourdough bread, local tomatoes and cow cheese didn't last longer than lunchtime. Smoked garlic was actually the only item that made it all the way back home. Feeling we should experience a bit of culture we headed to medieval Carisbrooke Castle where King Charles I was imprisoned, followed by St. Cathrine's Oratory, a medieval lighthouse on St. Cathrine's Hill.
After a day of cultural indulgence and stunning views, we let our growling stomachs lead us and found another wonderful restaurant on the island. The New Inn pub is a charming old stoned pub with a country-style interior and fantastic food offer.
Sunday morning was time to say goodbye to Isle of Wight and get back to "mainland". A male part of our gang decided to explore hidden secrets of HMS Warrior and HMS Victory while I strode around the Portsmouth harbour with my camera. What a fantastic weekend it was!
On a less happy note, my thoughts go out to those in Japan, effected by the recent earthquake and tsunami. The situation there is truly heartbreaking.
A fellow blogger and photographer Skye Hohmann, who used to live in Japan, decided to donate a number of her Japan images to the cause. All proceedings from print sale will go directly to the Red Cross relief efforts.
Every little help counts!
