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The Hotel, nestling within its own grounds of about 12 acres of garden and woods, is situated at the top of St Catherine's Down, the Isle of Wight's second highest point, on the southern most part of the Island.
The gardens and grounds offer quiet seclusion and the setting is ideal for those who enjoy country walks. Footpaths abound in all directions and the top of the downs is National Trust land with panoramic views across the Island.
It was originally the home of Michael Hoy, a successful late eighteenth and early nineteenth century merchant trading mainly with Russia, and was originally built in 1813. He erected the Alexandrian Pillar, known locally as the Hoy Monument, in commemoration of a visit by the Russian Czar. In the 1860's the main house burnt down and was re-built, as it is today, in 1895.
Its more recent chequered past includes being the Island's first Youth Hostel in 1935 and a centre for Hitler Youth until the start of World War II, when it was used as a school for Ventnor children. During the 1970's it traded as a restaurant, hotel and conference centre until 1987. In 1990 the Hermitage was purchased as a private home. In 1998 it was decided to open the doors to guests, the aim being to offer the finest bed and breakfast accommodation on the Isle of Wight. |