Fodor's Expert Review The Imperial Torquay

This enormous pile perched above the sea exudes slightly faded Victorian splendor. Lush gardens surround the property, and the interior of the 1886 hotel is, well, imperial, with chandeliers, marble floors, and the general air of a bygone world. Most of the traditionally furnished bedrooms are large and comfortable—it's well worth paying a bit extra for front-facing ones that have balconies and entrancing views across the bay.