Boskerris Hotel

It's blue heaven, on a sunny day, to sit on the terrace of this adults-only, 1930s hotel overlooking a white-sand Blue Flag beach and the clear waters of St Ives Bay, with a chilled glass of wine or a cream tea. It’s a best-of-both-worlds place, with arty, bustling St Ives just four minutes away by train, and serenity when you want to rise above it. The interiors have a coastal palette and Mediterranean cool. The most covetable bedroom has panoramic sea views, an in-room sunken bath and a wet room with rain shower. The cheapest is snug, with an over-bath shower, and 'extremely comfortable' bed. Three superior ocean-facing rooms have a super-king bed, free-standing bath and walk-in shower. All have an espresso machine, 100 Acres toiletries, fresh milk on request. The ambience is relaxed and friendly but decorous: proper leisure dress is expected in public areas. A short dinner menu offers choices such as pan-fried hake with salsa verde; mixed bean casserole. 'We had a fabulous three-course meal on the terrace.' Downtown, cafés, bars and restaurants abound. A locally sourced breakfast includes St Ewe free-range eggs, Cornish smoked salmon, a full English or vegetarian. (DO)