Cool Place of the Day: Talland Bay Hotel, Cornwall

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Talland Bay Hotel, Cornwall

Bang on the South West Coast path, the Talland Bay Hotel is all about pure relaxation. Forget the trappings of spa treatments, indoor pools and distracting sports facilities – here the focus is on glorious sea views, sub-tropical gardens, fine Cornish cuisine and lounging around in a quirky, luxurious environment. The 22-rooms have been individually decorated – there’s a roll-top bath in one, a sleigh bed in another – and the hotel has a vast collection of local and international artwork in the rooms and around the gardens. As well as a fine dining restaurant, there’s a swanky brasserie in the sea-view conservatory (where the dishes are a little lighter but no less divine), and a very comfy bar too, which like the rest of the hotel is dog-friendly. Just as well: this is prime territory for strolling with your faithful hound, a short walk away from glistening Talland Bay – childhood haunt of Dame Judi Dench – from where the South West Coast Path fans east to Looe (3.5 miles) and west to Polperro (2 miles). Sweeping up a grand tally of awards, including 'Best Small Hotel in Cornwall’ a few years ago, this former family home proves that location, style and cuisine are all you need to relax and embrace the natural beauty and lifestyle this part of the world offers.

Cool Places is a website from the creators of Rough Guides and Cool Camping, suggesting the best places to stay, eat, drink and shop in Britain (coolplaces.co.uk)

Read more: Best hotels in Cornwall