Gurnard is filled with 'Enid Blyton' charm and famous for its incredible sunsets which you can watch from The Ark's sofa. The locals are very friendly and welcoming and even when Gurnard becomes busy in the summer months, it never feels crowded or commercial. Although small, Gurnard has a convenience store, a wonderful village café, 2 food-serving pubs a newsagent and florist.
From The Ark it is a beautiful, pleasant, flat walk into Cowes, the world famous sailing town, with its variety of independent shops and abundance of bars, cafes and restaurants (There is also an M&S Foodhall and small Sainsburys).
Within a 10 min drive is Newport, the Island's main town and within a 30mins drive are Yarmouth, Ryde, Shanklin and Ventnor - in fact the whole Island is within easy reach. If you are feeling active then there are numerous beautiful walks and miles of coastal paths and cycle routes to explore (maps can be found at The Ark). To keep the energy levels up there are pubs, tea rooms and restaurants galore - the favourite ones can be found in a folder at The Ark or you can take advice advice from previous guests, all their comments are in the guest book.