“This mellow stone Georgian villa with an unusual thatched roof has fallen into talented hands. Gert, Danish, and Anna, English, have created a Scandinavian-chic essay in pristine white, the perfect backdrop for their stunning Danish designer furniture, lighting and CoBrA inspired abstract paintings. Potentially impractical it may be, but it also succeeds in being airy, harmonious and tranquil and guests respect the owners’ faith in them not to spoil it, some even taking off their shoes on the all wool carpets. Hillside’s past – it was at one time the home of the poet John Sterling – is respected too, charmingly displayed in photographs and documents on the walls of the bar. The twelve all white bedrooms have colourful vintage Welsh wool throws, V-sprung beds and fine Egyptian cotton linen. An excellent three course set dinner is served at 7pm for those who wish it. No tea and coffee in the bedrooms; however, you quickly fall in with the warmly welcoming hosts’ ways, and tranquility ensues.”
Written by
Fiona Duncan
Read the full Hotel Guru review
“Hillside is a charming 18th century Grade II listed country house built of mellow stone and thatch, with panoramic sea views and a southerly aspect. Set within 5 acres, backed by St. Boniface Down overlooking the Victorian town of Ventnor, Hillside's location is delightful in summer, sheltered and cosy in winter.
Hillside was extensively refurbished in Spring/Summer 2009 and now offers a minimalistic Scandinavian interior in which to feel at home.
Rooms are contemporary, vary in size and aspect but all decorated in a similar light, modern minimalist style, with light colours and blinds capturing all the coastal light. En-suite bathrooms are modern, with white tiling, powerful showers, under-floor heating and high quality towels and toiletries.
Hillside is a place of hospitality, dedicated to ensure your stay is as comfortable and as memorable as possible, making you feel among friends from the moment you arrive.”