The Driftwood Hotel, Cornwall

Perched above the South West Coast Path on Cornwall’s stunning Roseland peninsula, sits the awarding Driftwood Hotel.

Privately owned, the Driftwood is a luxury boutique beach retreat with a home-from-home ambiance that wouldn’t feel out of place in the Hamptons. But who wants the Hamptons when you can stay in an area so stunning, it has officially been designated as an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’.

We’re talking secluded coves, delightful creeks, wooded countryside, pretty villages and tranquil beaches. Yes, that’s right. Even in the heart of summer you would be hard pressed to find the crowds so often associated with the beaches of Polzeath, Newquay or St Ives. But just in case one of many the local beaches doesn’t feel private enough, alongside seven acres of lush landscape overlooking the crystal blue waters of Gerrans Bay, the Driftwood also boasts its very own beach.

When you’ve had enough of the beach and breathtakingly scenic walks, take to the terrace and enjoy the cliff top views with a refreshing G&T (or whatever your tipple) while the kids run free amid the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Inside, the Driftwood continues its Hamptons style costal theme with Farrow and Ball hues, laid back interior and local art. Kids will enjoy the games rooms, while parents looking for a little peace can take a turn in the library or retreat to the bar with its extensive drink’s menu. All 14 bedrooms (bar one) come with stunning sea views alongside soft crisp linen, tv’s, tea and coffee making facilities, and our favourite Ren toiletries.

For those looking for something a little different, there is a rustic cabin which can accommodate a family of 4. Set along their private beach path, the cabin offers panoramic sea views over the Atlantic, a private terrace, two bedrooms, a sitting room, kitchenette and bathroom. But be warned, while the cabin has a tv and DVD player, to allow you to completely switch off, the Driftwood have ensured its 100% WIFI free!

If all that fresh Cornish sea air has built up your appetite, you couldn’t be in a better place. Headed up by Chef Olly Pierrepont, who has worked alongside Raymond Blanc and as well as many a mitcheline stared restaurant in London, the Driftwood restaurant is some of the best fine dining in Cornwall. 

Offering up the freshest seafood and local grass-fed meat, Chef Olly works with the seasons, to create a mouth-watering menu that is both surprising and delicious. We highly recommend taking at least one evening out to sample their seven-course tasting menu.  Lunchtimes on the other hand are a more relaxed affair with a number of lighter options, while breakfast is a sumptuous array of yogurt and granola, croissants and homemade muffins. Of course no hotel breakfast is complete without the option of a full English or the ‘new classic’ poached eggs with avocado on toast, and the Driftwood doesn’t disappoint.

If you are looking at venturing further afield St Mawes on the very tip of the peninsula with its delightful array of cafes, restaurants and shops is well worth a visit, as is a boat trip across the river Fal to the bustling shipping town of Falmouth and Pendennis Castle. St Michael’s Mount on the south coast is somewhat of a legendary attraction, while the Eden Project with its awe-inspiring biodomes is a must, but it’s the seals at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

With its balmy summers, mild winters and endless natural beauty, there is no denying Cornwall’s a year-round destination, and the Driftwood one of it’s premier hotels.

The Driftwood Hotel and restaurant reopens on July 4th. Rooms from £170 per night. For further information visit driftwoodhotel.co.uk