The Driftwood Hotel, Rosevine, United Kingdom

Tucked away in the tiny Cornish village of Rosevine, The Driftwood is a stylish retreat for couples and young families seeking simple luxuries in lovely surroundings. After being taken over by Paul and Fiona Robinson The Driftwood underwent a facelift. Today, the wooden exterior is painted a nautical blue, blending seamlessly into the beautiful garden overlooking a sheltered private beach.

The facilities
Fiona’s interior design skills are apparent throughout the luxury hotel. The look is simple and uncluttered with an emphasis on natural materials. The sitting room has an African theme drawn from Fiona’s Kenyan origin and Paul’s years spent there. The colours are bright and natural - marine blue, cream and white - all repainted annually to maintain the fresh, clean air.

We arrived on a stormy evening and couldn’t have been more warmly welcomed, ushered into the sitting room to warm our hands by the roaring fire and snuggle up on the giant sofa with drinks and nibbles. A cosy TV room is packed with videos, DVDs and board games. There is also a small games room with a pool table amongst other things to keep you busy on a rainy day.

Dining at the Driftwood is a special occasion. Chef, Rory Duncan, from London’s One Aldwych, offers a three-course evening meal. Menus change daily with an emphasis on fresh local produce and an eye for adventure. Lamb with rhubarb sauce, fresh fish of the day, scallops, pigs’ trotters and Creole banana soufflé all graced our menu amongst other delicacies. Homemade breads and locally grown vegetables serve as accompaniments.

The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, other guests greet you cheerfully and Paul and Fiona are always on hand. The dining room looks out onto the garden and sea - exceptional food in magical surroundings. Hampers can be ordered to take down to the beach. The pavilion, half way down the path to the beach, can be reserved for a private lunch or a relaxing massage.

The rooms
The 15 rooms are large, with huge soft beds covered with silken pillows; most rooms have wonderful sea views. The style remains light and natural; lamp stands and mirror frames amongst other furnishings are crafted from driftwood. The bathrooms are simply tiled with flagstone flooring and luxurious L’Occitaine toiletries. Two rooms are good for families and children are welcomed. A small two-bedroomed cabin with sitting room and kitchenette is perched at the bottom of the garden, hidden from view. A private, rustic hideaway popular amongst honeymooners and those seeking solitude.