2 Best Hotels in Torquay, The West Country

Squeezed into a narrow space at the bottom of a steep lane just outside Torquay, this secluded coastal spot lies just feet from the rocky shore and the waters of Babbacombe Bay, where dolphins and seals are occasional visitors. There's a view-laden lounge, a cozy pub-restaurant with open fires in winter, and plenty of outside seating. Guest rooms are spacious and there are also luxury beach huts and self-catering cottages away from the main building. If you're not tempted by Babbacombe Beach, you can indulge in the hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and treatment rooms instead. Valet parking takes the stress away from negotiating the steep approach road.

The interior of this enormous 1886 property, surrounded by gardens and perched above the sea, exudes slightly faded Victorian splendor, with chandeliers, marble floors, and traditionally furnished bedrooms that 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. Note, too, that there's a daily fee for on-site parking.