The Isle of Wight is a luxurious, romantic hideaway by the sea is only 90 minutes from London by train or car - and crossing the water will make it feel like a real getaway.

You could catch the 'love boat' - aka the cross-Solent ferry - to the diamond shaped island, just off the coast of Portsmouth and Southampton, or take Europe's only passenger service hovercraft which is a thrilling ten minute ride 1.5 metres above the water.

The Isle of Wight (located on the South Coast of England and easily accessible from London) is a foodie paradise and well worth a trip. Chef Robert Thompson won the Isle of Wight's only Michelin star in 2008. He is an excellent ambassador for the Island and,  at only 29 years old,  has a uniquely fresh perspective on why the Isle of Wight is great destination for food lovers.

In this Jubilee year, visitors will be able to experience the same scenery and tranquillity that brought Queen Elizabeth's great-great grandmother to the Isle of Wight more than 150 years ago.

In keeping with the Island's Victorian heritage - Royal Osborne House on the Isle of Wight was Queen Victoria's own romantic retreat which she shared with her beloved Albert. Writing in her diary, she said "Often I feel surprised at being so loved, and tremble at my great happiness." Written over a decade after her wedding in 1840, Victoria's words are witness to the fact that the couple's passion continued to burn despite the responsibility of raising a family of nine and the burden of her position in life.

Still popular with today's generation looking for a romantic getaway, Twilight actor Robert Pattinson and his co-star Kristen Stewart, spent this New Year's Eve 2010 on the Isle of Wight. The celebrity couple, on a break from filming 'Breaking Dawn', were reliving their romantic trip from the previous New Year's Eve, which they also spent on the Island.

And the couple couldn't have picked a more desirable location for this type of break.   The downlands of West Wight provide beautiful secluded walks and panoramic views, a perfect romantic setting for those have yet to pop the question, or just fall in love with the Isle of Wight's outstanding natural beauty.

Below is our pick of some of the best Isle of Wight offers to make the most of any weekend (Valentine's or otherwise):

• The stylish Seaview Hotel

• Priory Bay - this country house hotel

• Escape to the Michelin-starred Hambrough

Eating out will undoubtedly be part of the experience, and with around one pub for every square mile on the Island, and a wide range of excellent wine bars, cafes and restaurants, many serving locally produced food and wine, visitors will be spoilt for choice.

Keep the first weekend in May free. At the Isle of Wight Walking Festival (5-20 May 2012) or see when other walks are scheduled.