When we arrive at St Moritz Hotel, we first notice the surfboards in the lobby. In addition, there are baskets with all kinds of beach toys, umbrellas and rain boots. Just there to borrow and take with you to visit the nearby beach at good or lesser weather. For active guests with older children, it is highly recommended to indeed lent the boards and visit Polzeath beach, one of the best surfing beaches in England. When our daughters hear it, it is immediately taken up in our program and next day the dare devils in their wetsuits impatiently wait for our private lessons begin. The hotel has its own surf school right on the beach and the friendly surf teacher takes all the time to bring us the principles of golfing. And with some perseverance we are all able to stand on the board and master some waves.
Standing!
So far so good, but let’s start at the beginning. St Moritz hotel is situated where a hotel with the same name was built in the 30's. It was rebuilt in the 90s in the same style, but with all modern facilities and fortunately exactly at the same beautiful spot overlooking Daymer Bay, Stepper Point headland and the Camel estuary in Cornwall, the beautiful region all the way in the South West of England. Although this could also be the south of France as the hotel has a distinctive Mediterranean feel to it, but in a modern jacket. Returning guests are often continuing a family tradition which extends back to the Sixties and Seventies and we understand why. The St Moritiz defines contemporary coastal style.
There is a wide selection of rooms. We ourselves stay in one of the 14 garden suites on the ground floor. The major advantage of this is the direct access to the garden through the large sliding doors. As a bonus there is a closed, comfortable conservatory, a wonderful place to have a drink if the children are already in bed. A bed they adored as it is a bunk bed that magically folds away in an alcove in the wall.
An easy way to make a lot of hotels more family friendly!
The first-floor garden suites in a similar layout all have a spacious balcony. In addition, there are 13, highly comfortable, open plan apartments for up to 8 people. The king and cozy rooms are especially suitable for couples and more compact in size. Very special here and something we have never seen before, is the fact that these rooms all have a beach hut by the pool. A cute wooden cottage with old school sun loungers, an umbrella and chairs to create a wonderful spot by the pool or on the large adjacent sunbathing area. In this way, the absence of a balcony or terrace is greatly compensated. Furthermore, all accommodations have a high spec kitchen, well-equipped bathroom and heavenly beds.
The lobby, spa, indoor pool, the a la carte restaurant, lounge bar and play room are in the Art Deco-inspired main building. It is an ideal combination. We enjoy delicious cocktails while the children entertain themselves at the PlayStation. Unlike some other play rooms that we encounter on our travels, it is also very suitable for older children.
So, it's no punishment to be inside when the weather lets you down a little, but the real highlight is the outdoor swimming pool. Hammocks invite you to a relaxing afternoon with an enjoyable book. Or have a lazy lunch on the terrace of the adjoining seaside restaurant & bar. Not for nothing, The Times called it one of Britain's coolest pools. In the summer months visiting children become automatic, complementary members of the Beach Club at the hotels Surf school Waveriders whose friendly staff keep them entertained with sand safaris, beach games as well as discounted surf lessons. While little ones are entertained for hours by the Mini Mortiz team.
We only had diner at the A la Carte Restaurant which we highly recommend. The chef focuses on creating his own take on ‘surf and turf’ so think Braised Beef Rib, Mousseline potatoes, Beef Bonbon and Octopus with Spring Greens. There is a dedicated kid’s menu with all kind of wholesome dishes. Breakfast also was excellent – some perfect poached eggs cooked to order, good orange juice, strong coffee and well prepared fresh fruit. What more do you need to start the day.
Watch and learn
And for those in need to lose some weight after all these culinary delights, there is a wide array of activities on offer. To start things off: the hotel is just on the amazing South West Coast Path. Forking off is a footpath that will bring you to St Enodoc’s Church, perhaps one of the most picturesque in the country. The villages of Padstow, Wadebridge, and Boscastle all offer cozy coffee shops, small shops that’s sell home made products and both low key and top restaurants. We ourselves loved the nearby Tintagel castle, a place inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur.
If you are in for a little ‘adventure’ have the complimentary Land Rover take you to the characterful Rock Ferry, which putters across the River Camel to the lovely town of Padstow. Horse riding enthusiasts will find a stable nearby. Others available sports include: golf, mountain bike trails, water skiing, sailing, rock climbing and tennis on the hotel’s own tennis court. Or what to think of a thrilling helicopter tour to see the country sights from another venture point.
No need to get bored in and around St Moritz hotel. And if you are in need of some true relaxing the hotel has a spa on offer. We loved it all!
WOW
# A well-appointed up-market family hotel, in a fantastic location.
# The St Moritz has a stylish selection of accommodation to choose from with rooms, suites, penthouses, and self-catering apartments and villas - all a short stroll from the shore.
# Located within five minutes of the beaches at Daymer Bay and Polzeath, St Moritz is a destination for a relaxing beach stay, indulgent spa break or family get-together.
