The Isle of Wight is known as a treasure trove of natural and manmade wonders and a source of pride for the people of England. Situated in the English Channel near Hampshire County, the island is teeming with gorgeous scenery from pristine waters to fascinating geological oddities. Scattered around the coast of the Isle is where the real treasures are: Sprawling resort cities and towering theme parks dot the Isle, offering thrills and pleasure to the thousands of visitors who run away to the Isle each year. Among these seaside resort paradises, though, none offer the splendor and excitement of Sandown, on the southeast coast.
Sandown, like many resort cities on the Isle, has a vast slew of restaurants and pubs that cater to the tourists. The more upscale visitors can peruse the many fine tea rooms on High Street but those looking for some local flavor will find plenty to love in the unique bars offering Sandown ciders and ales. Gastro-pubs are available aplenty as well, specializing in catering to any and all comers while providing great deals and tons of fun. The immense fun of the nightlife is countered by the staggering beauty of the daylight and the long stretches of sandy beaches in Sandown are second to none. Those fortunate enough to be able to afford a stay in one of the beautiful hotels along the shore will be treated to even more splendor, as enormous and gorgeous edifices built in the Victorian and Edwardian styles of old compete with the natural scenery for top honors in magnificence.
Lounging on the pristine beaches and basking in the temperate sun is heaven itself but Sandown also caters to those with exploration in their hearts. Anybody fascinated by nature will be positively enthralled with the impressive features of Sandown's landscape. For someone like this, a trip to Sandown must involve a trip to the incredible Culver Down. This natural chalk down is home to many unique species of wildlife including rare seabirds that can only be found in the area perching on rocky cliffs. Further inland is another place that draws thousands of bird watchers each year: The famed Alverstone Mead Local Nature Reserve. One needn't flock to these sanctuaries, though, to take in the immense beauty of Sandown. From the city you can see the lush, thick woodlands and the beach gives a wide berth to the fantastic rocky outcroppings that dot the seascape. Those visiting Sandown Bay can even bear witness to the ancient Petrified Forest that is partly uncovered during low tides. From time to time pieces of millennia-old wood even wash ashore!
People have been flocking to Sandown ever since the railways first allowed city folks easy access to this seaside paradise. Whether your aim is to waste away the day in the sunlight amid the wondrous beaches or to explore the incredible natural splendors that can be found all around the city, Sandown is a destination that will provide thrills and memories beyond your wildest dreams.
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