We jumped from Brighton by car which took just over 5 hours, (including quitting to get a bite to eat.) The traffic was pretty clear though browsing the skinny roads of Salcombe involved keeping a clear head as we weaved around lane roads with cars coming onto us. Unless you understand the streets when they say 20mph they truly mean 5mph!

The 4-star AA    resort is based at the South Sands of Salcombe, a mere 8-minute driveway from the major town of Salcombe, 30-minute walk or about 10-minute cycle, using the wise bicycles (electrically powered cycle bike) that the hotel supplies when staying with them. After parking the vehicle in their private car park we got out our cases and had finally arrived at what I’d describe as a picturesque and  modern hotel ideal for families, dog owners (it’s a dog-friendly hotel) and couples equally. The entrance of the hotel is modern and clean with a spiral staircase resulting in the chambers above. The reception table sits together with the restaurant beginning on its left and the bar to the rightside. It becomes evident that this is a hotel which needs you to feel at home with a air and clearly cares about its guests.

The staff member at the front desk greeted us kindly and aided us with checking. Our cases were taken to our room while we took a walk round the restaurant bar and terrace area of the hotel. Walking onto the patio it became apparent very quickly that this hotel literally sits metres away from sunlight stroked, sandy shores of south east sands — there was hardly a couple of footprints separating you from appreciating a kayak on the sea, or a paddle at the waves.

South Sands: The Rooms

South Sands Hotel have 22 rooms that are all decorated and maintained to the highest of standards, all with different aspects and sizing. They’re broken up into 6 different classes; Yawl rooms, J class rooms, Enterprise rooms, Optimist rooms, Dog-friendly rooms and the rooms that we stayed in — the Dragon rooms.

Having already walked around the resort and felt the warmth and cosiness, I had a great feeling that our room was going to follow the subject and gift something unique and exciting which guests will be happy to keep in for days on end and it surely did! Walking into the room we were greeted by a spacious area with a super king sized bed which only begged to be slept on. 2 Juliet balconies sat having an armchair sitting at both balconies and at the front of the room minding the most amazing sea views, you can sit back, unwind and listen to the captivating sounds of the waves lapping the shore all day. The decoration of this room is relaxing and tranquil with a motif. For me personallypersonally, the only real downside to the room was that the ensuite didn’t feature a bath that’s something I love to have in a space, however that is a personal choice. If you love showers their walk in shower is perfect for you and with a sleek marble finish, the bathroom as a whole looks stunning.

South Sands: The Restaurant

Dining at South Sands Hotel is called ‘fabulous’, ‘stunning’ and ‘beautiful’ but to us that is no real surprise considering the amazing view you get whilst dining. Exactly like our room and the patio, the restaurant appears on the beachfront that offers a warm and enchanting view whilst enjoying the company of a friend or loved one.

When we arrived a team member came over to lead us to our seat and guided us throughout the wine menu and took our order — Prices of wine begin at about #30. The food menu begins at #33 for 2 classes or #42 for three courses.

South Sands Hotel pride themselves using finely cooked seafood and the usage of the freshest ingredients (sourced locally when possible) and also make sure every dish is cooked to perfection. I opted for the fried scallops with curried parsnip puree, parsnip crisps, tender herbs and baby lettuce. To just how I like it cooked, the tastes were subtle enough rather than overpowering with the ideal portion size. The Puree was a excellent addition that complimented the scallops entirely. My partner chose the goat cheese mousse with candied walnuts, pear, chicory and soft herbs. Smooth, light and full of flavour. The dish was not overpowering with all the goats cheese offsetting really nicely with the walnuts.

I opted for the three manners with tender mash, legacy carrots farm pine, carrot puree, apple and kale that was crispy. It was elegantly placed being a crucial portion of the dish. Every sort of pork has been  cooked to the maximum of quality and full of flavour. Mash, cabbage, the carrot puree and apple and crispy lettuce all blended together to create a dish that is exceptional. My partner chose to try out the char-grilled dry green Dartmoor rib eye beef, with tomatoes sauce and chips. Ordered medium-rare the steak was succulent and flavorful. The béarnaise sauce complimented the steak entirely with it being completed in a matter of seconds — No complaints here…

Here at Seen at the City we often mention our sweet tooth, so it will come as no surprise that we could not wait to try South Sand’s dessert menu — We always leave space for a dessert, as you state as a kid “I have my dessert side along with my mains side!” Their desserts menu includes of 4 sweet alternatives, which all looked scrumptious, or a cheese board with a selection of five distinct cheeses. (Supplement of #4.95) It was a hard choice to decide which one to go for but I narrowed it down to two, the Chocolate Chocolate & Amaretto Cheesecake or the Vanilla Panna Cotta. Luckily my partner wanted the Vanilla Panna Cotta meaning so I picked for the Milk Chocolate & Amaretto Cheesecake.

As stated previously, demonstration is something South Sands Hotel really pride themselves if my Milk Chocolate & Amaretto Cheesecake came laid out as if it was an art piece on show, so it came at no surprise. You almost felt awful tasting it, it seemed great, but I did and I must say that it was my favorite part of the meal. The cheesecake was smooth and easy to consume. It was sweet but not too sweet which makes it the ideal dessert to finish your night on.

My spouse’s choice of this Vanilla Panna Cotta has been the perfect finisher to our beautiful evening. Smooth and silky, it was quite mild and just melted in the mouth together with the texture being put on. As the dessert and a great touch went down like a cure, the Ice cream came.

We finished our meal off in the bar area which was the perfect way to end. I went from also my partner a glass of Baileys and their enhanced whisky list. This is the opportunity to look through their extensive cocktail list to find something you will 23, if you enjoy your cocktails.

Breakfast in South Sands Hotel is served in precisely the restaurant and offers a selection of cold and warm dishes. These include fruit waffles eggs and a freshly which is delicious. That these are available in a continental buffet if you like cereals or your pastries. Coffee, Tea and hot chocolate can be arranged to your table. This is a ideal way to start your day and enjoy.

South Sands: Summary

It is rare to find a hotel which comprises over a couple of metres of the beach front, all of picturesque views, food and a place. Staying at South Sands Hotel is that with the addition of bedrooms that are stylish, spacious and staff. If you are looking for the perfect UK escape with friends, family or spouse South Sands should be in your list.

Head down today.

South Sands Hotel 
http://www.southsands.com/
Start Bay Caravan Club Site,
Bolt Head,
Salcombe
TQ8 8LL