An easy, level ride along a traffic-free cycle route and a seafront esplanade.

Parking: car park off Riverway Industrial Estate, Newport. Turn right just after the second roundabout and parking is available at the Medina Riverside Picnic Area.

Start at the car park entrance and turn right along the traffic free Newport to Cowes cycleway.

1. Go straight across Dodnor Lane and continue to the wooden bridge at Dodnor Creek. This is a local nature reserve which links to the Medina Estuary – an internationally important wildlife site. Keep going straight on.

2. Go straight across Stag Lane and follow the track all the way until it stops on the outskirts of Cowes

3. Turn right at the end of the track and immediately left at the mini-roundabout up Arctic Road. Follow this road past houses up to the next mini-roundabout.

4. Go straight over the roundabout along Bernard Road and cross Mill Hill Road at the end to go down Westhill Road.

5. Turn right onto Beckford Road, then dismount and turn left down Shooters Hill

6. Walk along the pedestrianised High Street until you reach The Parade. From here you may cycle in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron and along The Green, eventually meeting up with Egypt Esplanade, which you can follow all the way to Gurnard.

To return, just retrace your steps.

If you want to avoid Cowes town, the cycleway is a lovely ride in its own right with river views and wildlife to be seen along its length.

Refreshments:

• Cowes has many shops, cafes and pubs. You will have to dismount and walk through the pedestrian area so there are plenty of refreshment options.

• The Woodvale Inn at Gurnard serves food all day and has a beer garden overlooking the sea. Children are welcome.

• The Waters Edge and the Bowsprit are cafes on the seafront at Gurnard serving teas and snacks.

Points of Interest:

• Cowes Maritime Museum

• Cowes Yacht Haven

• Gurnard Beach

Tourist Information Centre:

Fountain Quay, Cowes and High Street, Newport