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A Victorian town with a Mediterranean feel, Ventnor is one of the sunniest spots on the Island. Built on a series of terraces beneath St. Boniface Down the town's roads zigzag down to the sea past the beautifully planted cascades. Ventnor grew up as a health resort in the Victorian era. The population swelled from 800 to 5000 in about thirty years, thanks to eminent physician Sir James Clarke, who in 1830 discovered the extraordinary microclimate which he said was ideal for the treatment of pulmonary disease. The seafront enjoys a surprisingly mild climate due to sheltering cliffs and southerly aspect. The Western Esplanade has a part sand, part fine shingle beach, good for sunbathing and swimming and adjacent to pubs, cafes, amusements, paddling pool and seafront car park.