In 'the most idyllic location', cascading down the cliffs at St Mawes with views to St Anthony's lighthouse, Olga Polizzi's seaside hotel continues to delight readers. Once home to a yacht club, it is spread across a cluster of houses. ‘It seemed like a place where people were happy to bring families and felt right at home,’ our inspector reports. Inside it is 'charmingly decorated', effortlessly stylish yet unstuffy. There is a great holiday vibe, with summer Sunday barbecues, a skippered 1930s yacht, a beach club with café/bar and private terraces. Each bedroom has its own style, from bright and breezy to country chic. Most have a sea view; four are dog friendly. The mosaic-floored restaurant, its terrace a riot of pelargonium, is 'nothing short of spectacular', with a short menu showcasing local fare with an emphasis on seafood such as lobster, lemon sole or brill. 'The service was faultless despite the hotel being full; guests were made welcome without staff being over attentive.' Breakfast is imaginative, as you would expect. If you're not nimble on your feet request valet parking; it is 137 steps up to the car park. (David Haugh)