Hotel Meudon

Subtropical paradise

Sitting on the terrace of this hotel and restaurant, swathed in nine acres of sub-tropical gardens and looking out to sea, it’s hard to believe you’re only a few miles from the busy hubbub of Falmouth.

Hotel Meudon’s location is one of its best attributes. It’s within walking distance of the foodie town and some of the area’s best beaches (follow the coast path that snakes past its garden gate to reach Maenporth and Swanpool, and eventually Falmouth) but it also feels incredibly peaceful and private.

The recently refurbished hotel in Mawnan Smith is a superb base for a gourmet getaway on Cornwall’s south coast. Newly appointed head chef David Waters worked with Nathan Outlaw in Port Isaac before making the move to Hotel Meudon, so diners can expect a strong showing of fish and shellfish when they eat here.

While his menus are rooted in local ingredients (David has plans to grow fruit, veg and herbs in the hotel gardens), the chef takes inspiration from south-east Asia.

‘My partner is from Thailand so we eat a lot of Thai food at home. I love bold flavours, but keep things simple and don’t overcomplicate dishes,’ says David.

Trencherman’s tip: make time for a pre-dinner drink at Freddie’s Bar. Its crimson-hued walls, rich velvet furnishings and burnt gold features create an inviting setting for cocktail hour.