Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa

Although business travelers do stay at the Fistral Beach Hotel, Cornwall's lack of a major business hub means that most of the guests here are tourists. It's a popular spot for a romantic weekend getaway, and is geared clearly toward adults (even the spa facilities are off limits to those under the age of 16). From the outside, the long white building that houses the hotel looks a bit institutional, and the plain, wood-floor reception area is similarly bland, with a rack of hair salon products for sale just opposite the front desk. The restaurant, however, is notably elegant, with tables for two facing out towards the water and swathes of white chiffon hanging decoratively from the ceiling for a breezy, romantic vibe. The bar is equally charming, with purple crushed-velvet chairs and Japanese-style wallpaper; it's also one of the city's favorite spots for a sunset drink, thanks to its ocean views.

The hotel is located on the rugged coast of Cornwall, a five-hour drive southwest of London, on a seaside road that runs along the water with lovely views of the sea, a five-minute drive from Newquay town centre. There are a few other hotels as well as residential houses on the same block. The Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project are each about a 40-minute drive away. Guests will need a car or taxi as bus routes in the area are limited.

The Fistral's 71 rooms are bright, cheerful, and classically simple, with off-white and pale eggshell walls and light-wood furniture. White bedspreads are spruced up with marine blue accent cushions, and chairs upholstered in bold turquoise hues add pops of color. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee facilities, and free Wi-Fi. All but Economy and Standard category rooms have sea views. Bathrooms include heated towel racks and shower/tub combinations, and even the Economy rooms have bathrobes and slippers. The best room in the house, the Fistral Suite, has a hot tub and three balconies.

The Fistral Beach Hotel's Beach View Restaurant serves a seasonal menu of locally sourced meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes, including a number of gluten-free options. The slightly more casual bar serves burgers, sandwiches, and a few main dishes along with cocktails, beer, and wine. Both restaurants have panoramic sea views. There's a spa with a fitness center, large indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, and sauna that's free for guest use. Treatments include facials, body wraps, massages, and reflexology for an additional cost. Nail and hair treatments are available in the beauty salon. Event space can host up to 140 people for weddings and corporate events, and there are two conference rooms available for rent. There's plenty of free parking on site.