Ahead of the hectic Christmas period, Stroud Times took a blissful and re-energising two-day break to Soar Mill Hotel and Spa in South Devon and we were in for a Devonian treat.
If a picture paints a thousand words, then the views of the cove at Soar Mill Hotel and Spa does what it says on the tin.
Located in an area of natural beauty on the coastal setting of Salcombe, this jewel in Devon’s crown will take your breath away.
Following our journey from chilly Gloucestershire, the unusually mild Devonian sea air was a welcome tonic as we neared our destination through traditional coastal lanes and instantly we were hit with the ‘wow’ factor as our eyes scanned the spectacular cove below.
A warm welcome awaited at reception as we were guided to our hotel room with a panoramic sea view.
It got better, a complimentary chilled bottle of delicious white wine awaited, but wait – we glanced around the spacious room and spotted another freebie in the shape of Jenny’s Gin – Soar Mill’s house gin made from honey, samphire and gorse blossom all sourced from the cove, distilled and bottled on site. We didn’t meet Jenny but Jenny, the tipple was divine.
Refreshed, we made what felt like a hop, skip and jump to the picturesque beach cove, which quite frankly brought a pleasurable shrill of delight’ – the view was stunning as the sun set, and waves crashed off the rocks and towards the shore.
With the sea air in our lungs, we returned to our room eagerly anticipating our evening. We swiftly popped our sumptuous spa robes on and made our way to enjoy a pre-dinner dip in the heated saltwater pool, followed by a relaxing sauna. The spa also included a gym, and beauty treatments ranging from massages, facials, and much more.
This hotel and spa boasted a view around every corner and as we entered the two AA restaurant we were gobsmacked, the view was to ‘dine’ for! The extensive menu turned my partner and I into a collective dithering mess, but Mimi our charming dining host gave us plenty of time and advice as we deliberated and debated.
I plumped for a starter of crab salad with celeriac and apple remoulade, apple aioli, my companion picked spiced wild mushrooms on toast with rocket salad, garlic and parmesan sauce.
A plethora raft of mains awaited. I chose grilled pork galette, caramelised apple, hog’s pudding. Shallot puree and cider reduction and my dining partner opted for whole lobster with garlic and herb butter served with chips and salad.
Stuffed and mindful we wanted to watch Strictly Coming Dancing, our next decision was do we rush back to our room and skip dessert. Lovely Mimi said we were welcome to order and it would be brought to our room – my coconut panna cotta with spiced mango salsa was in Strictly Come Dancing terms the perfect 10.
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