LordKnowle
February 4, 2025
To start, don’t visit Gara Rock if you have a fear of West Country ‘roads’ that are not much more than hard-surface farm tracks, because this is on the absolute edge of South Devon, but on a stunning viewpoint. But that’s Devon for you and all part of the quest of finding views like this. Often hard to get to, but once you’re there, you’ll be glad you did. The view is, indeed, quite spectacular. It’s worth the passing points, reversing backups and praying for your wing mirrors. So, journey aside, how did other aspects of our trip fare? Parking is ample for residents, and the layout of the hotel is modern, but nicely set out. It has a feel of spaciousness, but not a huge rambling set of buildings. It’s all reasonably well contained, so no walking miles of corridors to use any facilities. Reception is small and functional, in what looks like one of the lounge areas, but the staff seem very helpful and attentive. We arrived way before check in time, so whilst our room was being prepped, we had lunch in the brasserie style bar. The choice is a good mix of dishes and they also cater for both vegetarians and full-on vegans. Our choices were very good - flavours spot on - and portions very generous. On that note, don’t over order side dishes if you are dining in the evening too. The drinks list is more than sufficient for even the most discerning patron, and the bar seemed well stocked with a wide variety for other concoctions of your choice if you don't fancy one of the suggested cocktails. Pricing for lunch was reasonable, although a ‘service charge’ - even for residents - was added, but more on that later. When our room was ready - sea view suite with a small balcony - it largely met expectations. Situated in what was once the old coastguard house, it had a broad expansive view of the sea. A lounge area with French doors to take in that wide aspect view and an en suite bathroom with a large shower space, and a double bedroom. The bedroom area was, in my view, a tad small for what is quoted as a "suite", but worked functionally, and had a second TV. There was no safe, which was a small minus score. There is no mobile phone signal here, but the hotel's free WiFi coverage is good, and fast, so you can use apps or VOIP to make calls. Dinner on our first night was of a very high standard. The crab fritte starter was superb, very rich and, again, a large portion, with a very well flavoured sauce. My main, of a cod loin with a celeriac purée was very well cooked; flaky fish with just enough grilled edge and the celeriac flavour not overpowering. The finale of the night was a dark chocolate quenelle of the smoothest chocolate parfait-like texture you’re likely to taste. The real surprise is that it’s served with a sprinkle of a very fine olive oil and a light touch of sea salt. It’s a combination you’d think doesn’t work, but believe me it does. It’s quite a stunning dessert with the very fine and light oil, and salt, cutting through the sweet