The Isle of Wight has once again been recognised as one of Europe’s top island destinations after being shortlisted for the ‘Most Desirable Island in Europe’ title at the 2026 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.
The Island is among a prestigious list of destinations competing for the accolade, including Corsica, Crete, Gran Canaria, Hvar, Lanzarote, Madeira, Mallorca, Santorini, Sicily, Tenerife and the Isle of Skye.
Now in their 25th year, the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards are the UK’s largest consumer-voted travel awards, with more than 200,000 travellers expected to cast their votes before the winners are announced later this year.
Visit Isle of Wight is encouraging residents, businesses, visitors and everyone with a love for the Island to support the nomination by casting their vote.
Dominic Wray, Chief Executive of Visit Isle of Wight, has said:
“We’re incredibly proud to see the Isle of Wight shortlisted once again as one of Europe’s most desirable islands.
“To be recognised alongside some of the continent’s most iconic destinations is a fantastic achievement and reflects everything that makes our Island so special – from our spectacular coastline and beautiful landscapes to our welcoming communities, unique experiences and rich heritage.
“These awards are decided entirely by the public, so every vote really does count. Whether you live here, have visited before or simply love the Isle of Wight, we’d be hugely grateful if you could take a moment to vote and help us showcase our wonderful Island on the international stage.”
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The Isle of Wight has been nominated for the award on a number of previous occasions, with Visit Isle of Wight hoping another strong showing will help further raise the Island’s profile among UK and international travellers.
Voting is now open and closes on 27th October, with the winners due to be announced at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards ceremony during World Travel Market London on 4th November.
Those wishing to support the Isle of Wight’s bid can vote online via the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards website.
