Address: Rosevine, nr Portscatho, South Cornwall, TR2 5EW.

Telephone: 01872 580644.

Website: driftwoodhotel.co.uk.

First impressions: Sheltered in Gerrans Bay, the hotel sits in a seven-acre suntrap. Summers are warmer than elsewhere in Britain, and the winters milder. There are 10 bedrooms and a self-contained cabin, most of which have views over the bay. Guests are lured by the private beach, terraced garden and elegant dining.

What are the rooms like? The most striking feature is the sea view. Rooms are uncluttered and decorated in beach colours: sand, pale blue and white. Each room has a TV and video. Driftwood is used subtly in the manufacture of the bedside lamps and mirrors.

The bed test: The sound of the sea should be enough to lull you to sleep, but the natural fabrics and soft sheets help, too.

The bathroom: Simply tiled, with flagstone flooring. Plenty of towels and toiletries.

The restaurant: Choose from the daily catch of seafood, or the locally-reared meat. There is a real emphasis on fresh, organic food here, so expect the vegetables to be homegrown, and the cakes homemade. As well as the bright, airy restaurant, you can dine on the deck, or take a hamper down to the beach. Menus change daily, but the lemon sole is a treat, as are the Westcountry cheeses with a glass of port. £32pp for three courses.

What is there to do nearby? St Mawes with its bustling harbour and pretty quayside houses and shops makes for a pleasant stroll. Try a boat trip up Falmouth Bay to Truro. The heritage coastline is good walking territory.

How much? B&B from £140 per night per room. Dinner is included in low season.