Watersmeet Hotel

Built in 1907 for an "Edwardian gentleman," the four-pearl Watersmeet became a working hotel not long after in 1914. Since that time the elegant whitewashed structure has been sympathetically added to and updated throughout the century with the most recent owners purchasing the property in 2003. Since then the hotel has been superbly maintained, with fresh and uncluttered interior design that creates a pleasant breezy ambience with neutral tones and lots of natural light. Antique furnishings and beautifully restored period details emphasize its historical origins while smart contemporary touches throughout prevent it from ever feeling too old-fashioned. Large windows and an alfresco terrace overlook a plateau of manicured lawn and make the most of stunning panoramic views of the three-mile long sandy beach below. Guests are generally leisure travelers and couples looking for a peaceful place to soak up the surroundings.

The setting of the hotel is genuinely superb, perched on a cliff top overlooking North Devons's Woolacombe Beach -- generally considered one of the best beaches in the U.K. Winding coastal paths that lead from the hotel provide great views and fine walking along the unspoiled hills and fields that surround the property. The hotel is positioned between the Victorian seaside village of Mortehoe and the lively resort of Woolacombe, both within walking distance and offering quaint restaurants, cafes, and traditional pubs. The area is also very popular with surfers with lots of surf shops and decent-size waves for most of the year. With virtually no public transport in the area beyond some local buses (the nearest train station is in Barnstable over 12 miles away) driving is highly recommended. 

All but two of the hotel's 25 rooms have superb south-facing views that overlook the wonderful stretch of sandy beach. Two thirds of the rooms have been given a contemporary makeover and feature fresh, light tones with pleasantly patterned fabrics and a mix of modern and antique-style furnishings. The remaining third, although well maintained, feel rather dated and old-fashioned. The two Sun Pipe Rooms are windowless and get sunlight from a circular ceiling skylight. All rooms have free (though slow) Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles while some open to small terraces with seating. All rooms are homey and inviting, setting the stage for a peaceful retreat. 

Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the hotel's restaurant accompanied by superb panoramic views over the coast -- breakfast is included and west-facing windows mean lovely evening sunsets. The hotel also has both an outdoor pool, with sea views and sun loungers, and an indoor pool which is part of the spa that also includes hot tubs, a sauna, and a steam room. A range of massage treatments are also available though they're pretty pricey and parts of the spa could use a little attention. Wi-Fi is free throughout, though the signal can be spotty.