Cowes
Cowes is the world´s most renowned sailing resort and hosts the popular Isle of Wight events, Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race. The west half of the town is linked to the east across the River Medina by an old-fashioned chain ferry, one of the last working examples in the country. At the height of summer, Cowes Week, the biggest event on the Isle of Wight, explodes into life with countless spectators converging in the town to view the hundreds of yachts that participate in this annual extravaganza. The Royal Yacht Squadron headquarters is located at Cowes Castle, where cannon fire marks the start of the races. The town is also known for its sailing clubs, designer clothes shops, fine restaurants and lively pubs and has its fair share of excellent hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and self catering accommodation.