Meudon Hotel

Originally a country manor house dating from the 19th century, this property was bought and opened as a hotel in the mid-'60s by the same family who still run it today. After years of decline, a popular TV show engineered a makeover in 2012, updating much of the dreary decor and providing the hotel a much-needed boost. The reception is one part that clearly benefitted, decked out in smart neutral tones, with an understated, efficient feel. In fact all the common areas have now been updated, and in most cases integrated with the buildings original architectural features. However, the '60s-era additions of two accommodation blocks are still jarring against the quainter, older parts of the property. 

The gardens are indisputably the hotel's standout feature. They're made up of almost nine acres of beautiful gardens brimming with botanical specimens -- mostly planted by the original owners brought back from travels around the world. A short stroll through this sub-tropical haven for wildlife also brings visitors to a lovely stretch of private beach. Many guests are returning visitors, mostly older couples from around the U.K., some of whom have been coming to the Meudon for many years. Also being particularly canine-friendly, the hotel is quite popular with dog owners.

The hotel is located on a lightly trafficked road surrounded by pretty countryside on the picturesque south Cornish coast. The nearest major town is Falmouth, a 10- to 15-minute drive away; it's a working port and popular tourist resort with a hilltop castle and small sandy beach. However, most visitors are more interested in strolling the surrounding walking trails, with the grounds traversed by the lengthy South West Coastal Path, a waterside footpath. A little over five minutes walk downhill is the hotel's secluded sandy beach -- Bream Cove -- backed by low cliffs with fine sand and rock pools, and suitable for bathing. The nearest airport is Cornwall Airport Newquay, around an hours' drive, while by train the nearest major station is in Truro, 30 minutes away by car.

Most of the hotel's 29 rooms and suites were  updated between 2014-17 with a fresh, contemporary finish that combines calming, muted tones with wicker Lloyd Loom chairs, oak-top bedside tables, and carpeted floors. Some (Garden Rooms) are yet to be modernized and are decked out in with a distinctively last-century feel with numerous signs of wear. Rooms are generally spacious with most providing lovely views over the pretty gardens. Particularly comfortable beds with cotton linen and natural-fiber Vispring mattresses aid a good night's sleep, though some guests have commented on poor soundproofing between rooms.

Amenities are suitably up-to-date throughout with 32-inch flat-screen TVs and free reliable Wi-Fi, plus more retro radio sets and tea- and coffee-making facilities. As well as lounges with dining areas, the two suites open to a balcony or a terrace overlooking the grounds with teak garden furniture. Traditionally styled bathrooms are clean and well-maintained, with shower/tub combos, heated towel racks, and high-end Cornish toiletries.

One cottage is also available, renovated in 2013, with two upstairs bedrooms and a ground floor kitchen-breakfast room opening to a small private garden. A lounge also has valley views, plus the large bathroom has a separate bath and shower. 

As with many small-scale historic properties, Meudon is big on atmosphere and cuisine, but its notably missing any fitness, spa, or sports facilities. A freshly cooked breakfast is always included in the room rate, and served in the lovely bright restaurant with original herringbone parquet floors and a covered terrace with views out to the gardens. The restaurant opens for lunch and dinner, too (to guests and non-guests alike), and it serves a high-quality a la carte menu sourced almost exclusively from local ingredients. Half-board plans are available that cover a three-course evening meal. An upstairs bar also offers plush seating and a good range of drinks (including traditional Cornish ales), while more comfy chairs and a small library can be found in the "Bridge" lounge. Food and drinks can also be enjoyed on the alfresco terrace or on tables dotted around the tiered gardens. On-site parking is free and plentiful, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout.