With breathtaking views of The Atlantic Ocean and super family facilities this could be the ultimate West Country retreat

Words Apphia Michael 

The Watergate hotel

Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from your bed. Then picture stepping out to explore a two-mile stretch of sandy beach so expansive it feels like your own private playground. Add a stunning 25-metre sea-facing infinity pool, spa treatments and countless dining options to suit any mood and you see why we think Watergate Bay Hotel has bottled the formula for the perfect British beach retreat.

Built into the rugged coastline on one of North Cornwall’s best surfing beaches, the family-owned hotel’s stunning location right on the beach, its smart interiors together with an unpretentious vibe thanks to a crew of friendly, enthusiastic young staff have us totally hooked.

Families are extremely well-catered for here, with a dedicated Kids’ Zone crèche running daily supervised sessions for children and thoughtful touches such as baby monitoring and complimentary kids’ tea all in the mix.

The rooms

Chic yet comfortable beach house-style bedrooms – many of which offer lovely ocean views – kitted out with all the mod cons and decorated in a fresh and pared back neutral palette with pops of colour for a distinctly elegant Scandi vibe.

The open-plan Suite offers the ultimate in ‘room with a view’ indulgence, with a freestanding roll-top bath impressively holding court in front of a picture-perfect bay window. Opt for a Family Suite if you are planning on taking the kids, as each of these has a master double bedroom and a separate bunk bedroom. Incredibly roomy and cleverly laid out to sleep up to six, these are arguably the best value for money.

What to do

You really can be as active or as sedentary as you like. On a romantic break or desperate need of some down time? A whole host of cosy nooks, terraces and even an outdoor Canadian hot tub are waiting to be enjoyed. The well-equipped Swim Club, which offers everything from regular yoga and pilates classes to relaxing massage and beauty treatments, is home to a cute manicure and pedicure room with gorgeous views of the sea.

The beach’s large open bay is great for extreme sports as it picks up swell from the Atlantic, so if you’ve always wanted to learn to surf, body board or wave ski, then there really is no better place: the hotel offers access to qualified instructors from The Extreme Academy.

The food

Four contemporary, laid-back spaces for eating and drinking. Be sure to nab a sea-facing sofa in the relaxed Living Space for afternoon tea or sundowners with friends. Zacry’s, the hotel’s main restaurant where breakfast is served, is the place to head to for a special occasion dinner, where a delightful evening menu sees delicious American and locally-inspired dishes served up alongside a great selection of wines.

Down the lane, you’re spoilt for choice with Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall and the popular Beach Hut, the hotel’s newly revamped beach-side café which dishes up burgers, steaks and seafood.

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