Greetings from the Isle of Wight, where we've just arrived at The Terrace Rooms & Wine, Ventnor. And where J and I have been welcomed with much warmth and genuine hospitality by the host and their family pet in residence, Ronnie.
I already feel as if I've stepped into a scenic seaside postcard. From my vista overlooking the bay, I can hear a very gentle hum of waves as the Ventnor sun glistens on the water in a way I didn't think existed in the UK.
I commented to one guest about how sunny it is. To which she remarked, 'the Isle of Wight is one of the sunniest places in the UK.' (They are repeat guests.) But did you know that about the IOW?
Anyway, wish you were here! xxx
Room with a View, The Terrace Rooms & Wine
Hello again!
We checked in hours ago but are yet to do much else. Well, other than sit and watch the views, our near floor-to-ceiling bay windows frame. The same window that lets the sea and the sky right in. With views like this, I can happily abandon my phone and sit, stare and watch the world go by.
And as it is rather tranquil here; sit in the window snook and write. I know now why you recommended here.
I've just discovered an in-room wine cooler. There's a fireplace too.
The bed is at least a king, the sheets are The White Company's linen, the shower is of Amazonian proportions and stocked with La Eva's full sized bath products. The same exquisite brand found in Maybourne and Peninsula Hotels.
Everything, everywhere has been done with a touch of style, light and airy too. And this follows through to the bathroom where these are the views out of Room One irrespective of what you're doing.
Think Hamptons' well-styled seaside home.
As always, wish you were here xxx
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Tip: How to get to the Isle of Wight from the mainland? The ferry (passengers and vehicles) from Portsmouth or Lymington is a breeze. Book in advance, especially in summer!
A Glass (or Two) at The Terrace Rooms & Wine
Cheers from the Isle of Wight
I should say, we did manage to leave the room. Yes, for the wine tasting at 5 PM in the wine library.
Relaxed, enjoyable, fun, informative, enlightening - all the words I'd use to describe the experience. And too, filled with laughter and shared stories chatting with fellow guests while tasting rosés.
One need not worry about their wine knowledge. The wine tasting is suited for the wine aficionados and the curious alike, to simply sip and delight.
We followed that up with a stroll along the promenade, treating ourselves to some fish of the day, chips and a delightful ice cream on our way back.
But I may have just found my new favourite wine spot. The Terrace at the Terrace Rooms & Wine. I tried a glass of something crisp and white while watching the cruise ships go out and the sun set over Ventnor Bay. I call that, Perfection!
This place isn't just about great rooms—it's a wine lover's dream. The wine list here, (all 900 bottles and more), is carefully curated and features small producers too.
Anyway, try not to miss me too much. As always, wish you were here. xxx
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Tip: Ask for recommendations! Ashley and Tom know their wines and will guide you to something delicious.
Eating by the Sea
Good morning from my food bliss at The Terrace Rooms & Wine!
I've just returned from an invigorating early morning swim in the sea. I now find myself relaxing out on The Terrace following this morning's lovely alfresco four-course breakfast of housemade toasted soda bread, Poached Egg & Truffle Sauce, grilled Crispy Bacon, Tomatoes & Roast Mushrooms.
Breakfast was an experience. One that engaged all my taste buds and showcased Tom's prowess as a chef. The focus here is decidedly organic, locally sourced ingredients. And because the ingredients are from neighbouring producers, they're farm fresh and garden fresh. The Isle of Wight's tomatoes burst with all of their sunny flavours and the bread, freshly baked in house was the kind I couldn't stop eating.
This breakfast stopped me in my tracks and will now be the benchmark for breakfasts to come.
I do hope my postcards are making their way to you. I at least sent them first class. xxx
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Tip: Breakfast is a set four-course, first-class meal served daily between 9 and 10 AM
Morning Walks & Coastal Bliss
Greetings from the seaside!
Do you know, I think waking up to the sound of waves should be mandatory prescribed therapy. Little walks along coastal paths leading to hidden coves and Victorian-era botanical gardens should be, too.
Though it was down to the lavender-hedged deck, I took myself after breakfast this morning. Kicked back with a cup of coffee in one hand and Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim in the other.
Such bliss, I personally recommend this place as mandatory prescribed therapy.
Love Always xxx
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Tip: Bring comfortable shoes! Some of the best spots involve a walk, but they're worth it.
Until Next Time…
Here's one last card to add to your collection
As I sit in my window snook, relishing the last moments of our stay and writing one final postcard to you, I wonder what plan I can hatch to take up a more long-term residence here. I am finding it difficult to tear myself away. Perhaps, a writing retreat!
And although we much enjoyed all the warmth and sunshine, I suspect returning in the winter months will be just as fun sitting by the log fire and reading in the main room. Perhaps falling asleep there too. After all it does feel as a home away from home.
Though it pains me to, I must finish writing this card and leave. The Terrace Rooms & Wine has been the unexpected escape I didn't know I needed. A beautiful mix of a well-styled home, complete with first-class dining, even better wine and Ronnie the Labrador. We must return to share our favourite sunset spot, a glass of wine and the magic of The Terrace Rooms & Wine. Or just return because I want to. Need to.
Before that, I'll be bringing you a well-chosen bottle of wine from the wine shop that Ashley helped to choose. Oh and some Isle of Wight rock candy, I picked up on our walk.
With love from the The Terrace Rooms & Wine, Ventnor, Isle of Wight,
Tip: Book early! There's only six rooms.
Tell me, would you stay here?
Good For: Adult Only getaways / first class breakfasts / daily inclusive wine tasting
Where: St Augustine Villa, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1TA
When: Open All Year but with Friday dinners in the winter months.
Visited in Summer 2024.
