There are two very good reasons why the Isle of Wight is a hot place for mountain biking: spectacular scenery and an unrivalled network of trails.

The Island's countryside is England in miniature. There are chalky cliffs and ancient downland, broad-leaved woodland and marsh, a coastline scarred by deep chines. Almost half the Island has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the Countryside Commission or Heritage Coastline.

There are over 200 miles of trails threading through this landscape which are great for mountain biking, as well as countless quiet country lanes. These networks of Rights of Way are regularly maintained and comprehensively signposted.

For a leisurely ride with the family, take a trip through the Arreton Valley on old railway lines. Another popular family ride is Freshwater Bay to Yarmouth beside the River Yar. To check out our Easy Peasy Pedalling Guide click here.

For those looking for a more rugged and challenging ride, there's the classic rollercoaster route over the Island's spine from Freshwater to Newport. For some serious hills, try the many trails over the southern downs around Shanklin and Ventnor.

The Island plays host to a number of big cycling events, including the annual week-long Cycling Festival. There is even a signposted, easy to follow 'Round the Island Road Route'.

If you're looking for ready-made routes, we recommend 'Cycling Wight' and 'Cycling Wight 2' by Ian Williams and John Goodwin, suitable for leisure and family riders. More experienced riders making their own routes should use Ordnance Survey Outdoor Leisure Map No 29 (1:25,000).