The Atlantic Hotel

The Atlantic Hotel is a romantic, Art Deco fantasy approached via a picturesque country lane that is pure Cornwall. On arrival, the gorgeous coastline comes into view setting a glamorous vibe. The Atlantic is far removed from the boozy bar and club scene of Newquay, and has an impressive history involving hospital services during World War I and even a 1960s Beatles visit. From the outside, the hotel recalls another time, with its 10 acres of rolling lawns, elegant sun terraces, and glass conservatories. Inside, decor feels lifted out of the early 20th century, with black-and-white checkerboard floors, sweeping staircases with wrought-iron railings, chandeliers, and original architectural features. Occasionally there's a misstep, such as the worn black leather sofas or the mass-produced sculptures of jazz musicians. But in general, the furnishings suit their surroundings: a little quirky, a lot luxurious. Silks, one of the hotel’s two restaurants, resembles a classic palm court, with luxe zebra-print upholstery, fancy wrought-iron chairs with sunburst motifs, a white grand piano laden with Champagne buckets, picture windows, and, of course, tropical palms. Afternoon high tea is an event here. The more formal Atlantic Dining Room is done in heavier navy blues and whites, with plush carpeting, high ceilings, and a grander air. During the Christmas holidays, the Atlantic turns up the festivities with elegant holiday dinners and Cornish traditions. And it's also a grand setting for weddings and special events, with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, including a large ornate ballroom lined with exquisite Art Deco stained glass. Lest the hotel feel too stuffy, dogs are welcome guests, and are even invited to join their owners and dine on the terrace. With its romantic and historic setting, The Atlantic tends to draw middle-age couples and young sweethearts seeking sophistication in their seaside vacation. 

The Atlantic is located on a hilltop overlooking the town of Newquay and the Cornish coast. The hotel is reached via tiny, seaside country road, but is very accessible and easy to find. Newquay is the surfing capital of England, and the beaches are within a four-minute walk of the grounds. The Newquay Golf Club is a seven-minute walk from the hotel lobby, and the Blue Reef Aquarium is less than 15 minutes away on foot. The boisterous bar and club scene in Newquay is far enough from the hotel for it to feel secluded, but only a 12-minute walk down the shore.

Guest rooms at the Atlantic Hotel all offer gorgeous sea views, and some have private balconies for watching the waves roll in. The rooms vary in size from Singles to Suites, but they're all spacious, clean, and comfortable. Even the Atlantic’s Single Rooms are large and welcoming, with beds that are larger than twin-size. (A boon for solo travelers who often end up in convent-like cells.) Decor aims for a luxurious feel by way of thick blue carpeting, period wooden furniture, and glitzy chandeliers. But as with common spaces, a few furnishings don't match the luxe setting, including black leather couches and cheap blond-wood tables. Some guest rooms open right onto the pool area. Most bathrooms have glass shower stalls and attractive claw-foot tubs with bath caddies; a few rooms have shower/tub combos. Standard amenities include memory-foam beds, flat-screen TVs, minibars or mini-fridges, small safes, tea/coffee facilities, and free toiletries. Hypoallergenic rooms are available upon request.

The Atlantic Hotel has a pretty outdoor pool with a tiled sundeck that offers views of the sea coast. In addition, there's a spacious and bright indoor pool with a hot tub and two saunas. There's an on-site massage therapist and “wellbeing treatment room,” where guests can book a variety of treatments including sports massage, reflexology, Thai massage, crystal healing, and more. In keeping with the early 20th-century atmosphere, there's a billiard table, and a comfortable lounge with cool high-backed seating nooks. Silks Bistro and Champagne Bar serves a menu using fresh local produce, and guests can dine in the palm-lined solarium, on the sea-view terrace, or on sofas in the clubby bar area. Afternoon high tea is also available. English breakfast is served in the Atlantic Dining Room for a fee. Children’s menus, high chairs, and coloring books are on hand in the restaurants. The hotel offers a variety of surfing expeditions and surf-themed packages for guests who want to take advantage of the spectacular Cornwall waves. The hotel is dog-friendly, and provides pet beds, bowls, and treats for visiting canines.