The narrow and winding roads demand all our attention so that we see our destination just as we almost get there. The sight is impressive: Polurrian Bay Hotel stands as an old stately lady tall high on a cliff above the sea. Although it is still fresh in April, the sun is exuberant. "Does an important person live here?", asks one of our daughters from the back seat as we drive up the driveway. And although the view is formal, The Polurrian is a real family hotel and part of the Luxury Family Hotels Group. As soon as we enter with our luggage through the beautiful, high old doors, we immediately see a wide array of rubber boots in the hallway with a big basket with all kinds of beach gear: nets, surfboards, scopes and buckets, etc. Handy to borrow for a visit to the sandy beach just a steep climb down from the hotel. Only if you manage to pass the enormous chess board in the garden.
When we are checked in we continue to the lobby where our mouths open in surprise. Because of the glass façade we have a great panoramic view of the sea and the coast line that stretches all the way to the horizon. Here and there families relax for lunch, we immediately decide to do the same. Scattered around this impressive lobby and adjoining restaurant you will find children's toys, reading books and a children's bar where you can enjoy free lemonade and fruit juices all day. It’s great for parents as well, with a modern interior design, nice sitting areas and amazing art.
Sitting areas with a view
Our room is situated on the third floor and has the same sea view and is of a good size. The furniture is adequate but by no means luxurious or design. It is all highly comfortable and you do not have to worry about kids trampling on expensive pieces with sandy feet. There were plenty of toiletries, big fluffy towels and a king size comfy bed.
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Especially the younger ones will definitely love the treasure hunts in and around the hotel. Make sure they will have a look at the fair garden hidden in one of the corners of the beautiful landscaped garden. There is also a kiddies play area and tennis court on one of the lower terraces. The play area was being renovated during our stay but will be all brand new and up and running by now. The leisure club includes an indoor heated swimming pool, a family cinema, a games room with table tennis, snooker tables and computer games. In the warmer months you and your children will have a blast at the good size outdoor swimming pool, with again great sea views.
For each day of your stay The Polurrian offers up to two hours of childcare in the kids den with two specially trained staff. The play room is huge with masses of toys, structured play sessions for those who want and again, it might not surprise you, an amazing view. To top it all off the friendly staff will even whisk your children away to Breakfast Club on a Sunday morning, leaving you to curl up back in bed with a coffee and the newspapers. Or think of visiting the little gym and attractive spa.
All kind of toys, but she still starts with drawing. Our great artist...
We had all our meals in the hotel. Portions are of a good size and cooked well, the presentation is great all the staff were friendly and attentive. They offer a massive choice of drinks, with some interesting the local wines and cocktails. The kids menu also has lots of choice and it make a nicely change to have so many healthy options on offer. One night we were lucky since our kids decided to eat with the two of them, leaving us with a good book. After our approval the staff handled it very well. After this, our daughters found themselves in the cinema with a movie of their own choice. And us in the separate adults only dining room, an elegant Edwardian dining room flooded and with a view enhanced by the lights of coastal hamlets from mullion to Lands End. Dinner was served with unlimited attention from the staff and a fitting end to the day.
Movie time!
For those of you traveling with babies no need to stress out. The staff will liaison with you before you arrive to ensure that your room is equipped with every item of baby equipment you need, including cots, nappy bins and bottle warmers. So you can leave most of the baby equipment at home and travel light.
From the stunning coastal backdrop, to your left is a 30 min walk to Mullion Harbour. You’ll find facilities for kayaking, kayak fishing, rock climbing, bushcraft and courses here. To the right it is a 10 min walk to the beach, both lovely little walks and part of a bigger costal walk. The hotel feels like it's recently had a refurbishment, it's a mix of high ceilings, modern fittings and a bit of quirky!
Mullion Harbour
The grounds also have a small exit that joins to the coastal path leading down to Polurrian Cove. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the Cove which is very picturesque. Make sure to have a coffee in the old tavern. Apart from walking there is a range of family activities to choose from. For example the Cove is ideal for body-boarding and building sandcastles. Also close by is the monument marking where Marconi sent the first transatlantic message in 1901. For some more action consider a day at Flambards, the West Country's leading family attraction with rides for everyone, family fun and entertainment. Or visit the Seal Sanctuary provides a lifeline for stray, sick and injured seal pups discovered around the Cornish coast, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall that makes history inspiring for all ages and finally the Trenance Chocolate Factory close by for some nice souvenirs.
WOW
# No matter where you are in the magnificent building that houses this family hotel, the views are always breathtaking. Just sit down with a good book while the kids play in the kids club and get in a ‘zen state’ while watching the passing cloud formations.
# Especially younger children will have a blast with the treasure trails and the fairy garden. It is quite save to let them roam on their own. For the older kids there are still numerous activities in the area to undertake.
# The Polurrian strikes that difficult balance between stylish and family friendly. Just the place for everyone to feel at home and relax.
This property can be booked through www.i-escape.com/polurrian bay hotel
