SUE McQUEENIE explores the latest hot hotel on the British coast – The Talland Bay Hotel, near Looe, Cornwall.

WHAT’S THE BUZZ? Leave the crowds behind, pause the hustle and bustle of everyday life and head for this unique hotel situated a stone’s throw from the South West Coast Path, between Looe and Polperro on the south Cornish coast.

A winding lane leads you to Talland Bay Hotel, situated in its own wonderful sub tropic gardens with stunning ocean views. Dating back to the 16th century, this 20-room boutique hotel was once a luxury country house and has been developed over the decades.

Its interior is full of quirky and eclectic décor – there are definite Alice in Wonderland vibes here. The well-appointed, luxurious rooms are warm and comfortable, think four poster beds, claw foot baths and ocean view hot tubs. The service is top notch – from the warm welcome to the friendly staff, nothing is too much trouble at Talland Bay Hotel.

BEST SEA VIEW? The rooms at the front of the hotel boast glorious views of the ocean, the lower ground floor rooms have French windows which open up to a small outside seating area and direct access to those wonderful gardens. With Talland Bay below it’s a short walk downhill to get to the coast path, a little more challenging on the return trip!

CAN I BRING MY DOG? Yes, you can! Dogs are welcomed as warmly as humans with space set aside in the conservatory brasserie for those who wish to dine alongside their pooches. They even have their own special menu of locally-sourced chicken at dinner time and Kittow’s Butchers’ sausages for breakfast.

HOW ABOUT THE FOOD AND DRINK? The stunning food is the star at this hotel. Head chef Glen Merriott and his team have created an incredible menu built around fresh seasonal Cornish produce. Every bite is just as exquisite as the next and the service is excellent – attentive, knowledgeable, but relaxed.

As well as the food, the superbly stocked bar offers a wide choice of drinks including thirst-quenching Cornish craft beers, and for gin-lovers there’s more than 100 gins from around the world – including the hotel’s own specially commissioned gin.

WHAT WILL IT COST? Rooms cost from £210 per night on a B&B basis. Bed and board for pets is £15 per night and includes a pooch pamper pack on arrival with a dog blanket, bowls and feeding mat

HOW DO I BOOK? Call 01503 272667 or visit tallandbayhotel.co.uk

Pick up the latest copy of coast magazine for more inspiration.