An experience is made memorable by all the ingredients blending together to create something outstanding. There can be no doubt that a visit to the boutique South Sands Hotel in Salcombe will leave abiding memories and a strong desire to return.
Recently included in the Sunday Times ‘Ultimate 100 British Hotel Guide 2016’, South Sands is a bespoke hotel offering outstanding personal service to all guests, situated right on the beach. An idyllic setting, with stunning views, it offers a true taste of this fashionable seaside town at its very best.
Now, there’s another reason to visit. In April, the South Sands welcomed Allister Bishop as their new executive chef. Encouraged by the knowing lure of fresh beach side produce and divine country living, Allister brings with him decades of experience having been based in London, working at some of the most reputable establishments the city has to offer – Harrods, Le Meridien and Hilton to name but a few.
Allister’s style stands apart for its creativity blended with a level of simplicity. He believes it is essential to pull together dishes that look stunning on the plate but can also be easily comprehendible by the diner. Wherever possible, Allister uses local ingredients and integrates foraged food into the menu. The food is matched with carefully chosen wines, from a regularly updated wine list. The spectacular curved wall of pristine French windows presents a breath-taking centrepiece to the extraordinary restaurant, bar and terrace area. The unparalleled views overlook the brilliant blue, green colours of the Salcombe Estuary. The end result is a sensational dining experience.
Sommelier Richard Coulson has recently joined the hotel from Gidleigh Park bringing with him 24 years of knowledge of the wine business. His experience spans sea and shore, having worked on a plethora of up-market cruise liners as well as a six-year stint at a luxury hotel in Bermuda. On the bar front, the young and energetic Will Neil is stirring up a buzz as bar manager. His passion for cocktail design will put the hotel on the map in the mixology scene.
A destination to search out for the food and drink alone, however as somewhere to stay South Sands ticks all boxes. Rooms range for the small but intricately designed ‘Optimist’ to the largest and grandest ‘J-class’, which is adorned with opulent features such as the decadent 8ft bed and two roll-top baths and has stunning estuary views and coastal scenery. A private balcony looks directly across the bay and provides a wonderful setting for breakfast or a glass of bubbly. There are also five Beach Suites which sit to the side of the main hotel. The Beach Suites make an attractive venue for private functions, corporate events and business meetings. Each comprise of two large ensuite bathrooms, one of these can be set up with twin beds, a generous open-plan reception, lounge, and dining and kitchen area.
The South Sands Hotel also understand that dogs are part of the family, so like to make them welcome. They have ‘dog-friendly’ bedrooms available in all their room categories (excluding the J-class) and their Beach Suites. Dogs are welcome on their terrace and in the bar lounge area.
So, whether it’s a first-rate dining experience, a romantic escape, a wedding or a corporate event space required, South Sands Hotel is the destination to discover in 2017.
Doubles cost from £170.
Address: Bolt Head, Salcombe TQ8 8LL
Phone: 01548 845900
