Ventnor
This Victorian seaside town with a Mediterranean fell is located at the southern end of the island and accessed via an array of steep winding roads set amidst truly stunning scenery. Sheltered by St. Boniface Down- one of the island’s highest points and an ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’, this charming town has a uniquely mild climate which surprisingly enables tropical and exotic plants to grow throughout the area.
Ventnor is a lovely town, built on a series of terraces beneath St Bonchurch Down the town’s roads zigzag down to the sea past the beautifully planted cascade.
Over the past years Ventnor has become a chic resort with the introduction of new wine bars, fine dining and fabulous properties. There are a number of eateries such as Phileas Foggs, Cantina or head down on to Ventnor Seafront with places such as The Mill Bay and the renowned Spy Glass Inn. You cannot go to Ventnor without sampling the famous fish and seafood and we recommend Ventnor Haven as a great place to get your local fresh fish, seafood and also a great serving of fish and chips.
The esplanade has a sandy and fine shingle beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing or walking one of the great range of coastal paths to explore and take in the beautiful coastline. Along the seafront you will find a selection pubs & cafes who offer locally caught sea food. Here you can watch the boat leave from the harbour and return with the day’s catch.
There are lots of other small bays to discover along this coast such as Steephill Cove a beautiful sheltered bay, which is only accessed on foot and is a real rock pool paradise. Also you are able to walk along the coastal paths to Wheelers Bay or the woodland in Bonchurch to find the Wishing Seat or The Devils Chimney.
If you fancy a game of golf whilst on the Island then Ventnor is a great course to try. Ventnor golf club is the oldest club on the Island, it offers 12 holes and boasts fantastic views
Ventnor Botanic Gardens are a place not to be missed. The gardens are hailed as one of the great gardens in Britain with them having a collection of subtropic and exotic plants that are unrivalled. You can enjoy fantastic coffees, fine wines and light lunches in The Plantation Room cafe and ultra-fresh dining using produce from the gardens on site in the Edulis restaurant.
Ventnor is perfect for families or couples and often attracts walkers, writers and artists who come in search of unspoilt views. Its quirky mix of small vintage shops and many popular pubs and restaurants offer something for everyone. Local supermarkets in town: Co-op, Tesco Express and Spar all with long opening times.