The Isle of Wight has once again been recognised as one of Europe’s most outstanding island destinations after being shortlisted for ‘Most Desirable Island in Europe’ in the 2026 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.
Now celebrating its 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 this year.
The Isle of Wight joins an impressive shortlist featuring some of Europe’s best-known island destinations, including Corsica, Crete, Gran Canaria, Hvar, Lanzarote, Madeira, Mallorca, Santorini, Sicily, Tenerife and the Isle of Skye, among others.
Having been nominated previously, Visit Isle of Wight is once again calling on residents, businesses, visitors and everyone who loves the Island to help showcase everything that makes it such a special place by casting their vote.
Dominic Wray, Chief Executive of Visit Isle of Wight, 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.”
Voting is now live online www.wanderlustmagazine.com/about-us/our-awards/2026-reader-travel-awards-voting-form and closes on 27 October, with the winners announced at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards ceremony on 4 November during WTM London.