If the Gara Rock hotel walls could talk, they would sing a song of the ages. It offers an all-encompassing experience that leaves an indelible mark and wants you coming back for more.
This stunning haven is just what the doctor ordered. Located on the sumptuous Devon coastline it offers the very best service, reinvigorating fresh sea air, extensive pampering and the undoubted guarantee of that escapism feeling.
This boutique retreat, located in East Portlemouth near Salcombe, is much more than a hotel and has a place in our hearts already.
The staff feel like old friends from minute one – welcoming and always attentive to your needs – duty manager Patrick Firmin and guest services manager Polly Amato are more than worthy of a mention.
The one thing that never ceases to disappoint at Gara Rock is the view from the restaurant. The glass surround enables the sea in all its glory.
As we arrive for dinner, we have a jaw-dropping look down at the sweeping sea against its own Gara Rock coastline.
As we are seated by the reliably friendly staff, we look at the extensive menu for the evening created by executive head chef Paul Hegley.
What we devoured
Our party of three all opted for something different so we have an array of food to sample.
The wine and cocktail list is extensive. M partner has a refreshing Aperol spritz while I have gin and tonic adorned with pepper and lots of ice.
For starters we had mixed heritage charcuterie and burrata with burnt spring onion dressing and lavosh It did not disappoint the burnt spring onion and lavosh was like an oaky sweet accompaniment to the milky smooth burrata.
Then the charcuterie was the tastiest I’ve had and felt like heritage in its flavour. Overall, I would highly recommend these two dishes together. Served with crisp bread and knocked back with a glass of pinot noir.
For main course I opted for the traditional fish and chips. Possibly the most fresh fish and chips I have ever had.
My partner went for fillet steak – perfectly cooked and remarkably tender. The third in our party ordered a pizza and said it was “ sourdough perfection”. All of the dishes were served on time and consistent follow ups on feedback or levels of satisfaction. There was no need for complaint.
For dessert we chose the Devonshire clotted crème brûlée and milk ice cream , Yorkshire rhubarb and ginger crumble and a trio of ice-creams.
The star of the desserts for me was easily the milk ice cream with delicate rhubarb and an avalanche of crumbled ginger. One of those desserts you will think about again.
I think more than a match and then some. From carefully curated sharing dishes to snacks, to fish of the day, there is something on Paul’s menu for everyone.
Delicate and sophisticated without pretension. Thoughtful flavours and stunning presentation.
We will be back…..oh and did I mention the view?
Like the food, utterly spectacular!
A room with a view
Gara Rock is just perfect for visitors just looking to unwind.
Boasting rustic-chic interiors, heated indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, cinema, two restaurants and bars, a sun terrace, cosy bedrooms and stylish self-catering cottages, all cleverly positioned to make the most of spectacular sea views.
Of the bedrooms, Loft Suite 5 has the biggest wow-factor, with an open-plan living area, freestanding bath and a super king-sized bed and terrace which faces the sunset.
Dog owners are well catered for with a range of lovely suites and rooms that lead out onto pretty gardens through bi-fold doors. There’s also a warm-water outdoor dog shower, complete with dog shampoo.
The Penthouse and Signal House are geared for large groups, while the uber-romantic Secret Suite overlooking the sea is a luxurious and secluded hideaway for lovebirds.
Relax
The hotel’s Elemis spa is excellent. You can enjoy all the usual treatments, from massages to manicures to facials, swim in either the inside or outside pool (with impressive views of the surrounding coves), relax in the jacuzzi or in the sauna or steam room.
You can even watch a film in the private cinema room and there are no end of books and board games to enjoy in the open-plan lobby.
Want to escape and come back feeling actually rested? Book an escape to Gara Rock now.
Factbox
Rooms at Gara Rock start from £221 per night including breakfast
Address: East Portlemouth, near Salcombe, Devon, TQ8 8FA
Tel: 01548 845946
Website: gararock.com
All imagery credit: Gara Rock
