Now usually the two things you debate on when going away are the location and the accomodation and it is rare to find two which fit so perfectly hand in hand you can’t imagine one without the other. For Cary Arms is so perfect and so, well, Devon, you wouldn’t wish to stay anywhere else. It is nestled at the bottom of a steep hill, right on the seafront. The challenge to navigate down only adds to the impact of how really worth it the work to get there is. It is a historic seaside inn nestled on the shorefront, boasting breathtaking views rolled out as far as the eye can see. Upon entering, we were enveloped in the warmth and cosiness of it all. It felt like a homey pub (minus any rowdiness) and was relaxed and welcoming.

The hotel has 10 elegant sea-facing rooms and suites, 3 restored fisherman’s cottages and 8 newly launched, brilliantly quirky deluxe beach huts & beach suites. We stayed in one of their newly renovated beach huts and for anyone looking for a stay that is unequivocally charming, luxurious and beautiful, look no further than one of these. We were led down our own private pathway to our hut and were greeted with one of those breathtakingly gleeful moments when something is miles better than you had expected. With wooden sides and ceiling, it is reminiscent of traditional seaside charm, further enhanced by fully folding back bi-fold doors which open to a large decking area.

The suite was made up of three rooms as well as a little corridor with a utility cupboard (in here you can store your coats and jackets and find the iron and safe.)

The first room was a large and cosy living room with a spinning armchair (the best seat I’ve ever sat on!) and a sofa covered in fluffy blankets. An electric fire stretches over one of the walls and a large smart TV is available to watch all your favourite shows. It is hard to convey just how beautifully cosy this room was, with pretty white walls, a chic wood-panelled floor and simple paintings hung on the walls. A bottle of port was on offer with two glasses and they state anything edible we find is ours – there’s no extortionate minibar fees here. A complimentary bottle of wine was chilling in the fridge and a bag with a body scrub, mini sticks of personalised rock and other goodies waited on the side. It’s clear right from the off that this is a hotel which really cares about the personal touches.

As it was a sunny day, we threw open the large doors and let the sea breeze and warm sun seep in. The bedroom was, again, stunningly beautiful, with a large and supremely comfortable double bed, chic white drawers, desk and pretty nautical-inspired paintings hanging on the walls. The space is so bright, airy and relaxing it makes you feel instantly motivated, creative and relaxed. I could picture myself sitting at the desk, staring over the beautiful views and writing all day long without a care in the world.

The bathroom, again, oozed contemporary classiness. As well as a rain shower, a large bath took precedence at the side of the room. White Company toiletries were a nice added touch. Thanks to the addition of the Sonos sound system with speakers in the ceiling of each room, you can even listen to music whilst in the bath.

Cary Arms promises gastro food cooked simply and that is exactly what they deliver. It is a location where you can dress up if you feel like it, or if you want to wear normal attire that is fine too. It is wonderfully cosy and oozing with charm. In the winter months they light up a log burner and even though we visited on a balmy spring evening, we could imagine how inviting it would be in the cooler months.

Freshness and seasonality are both important in the cooking ethos at Cary Arms and it goes to show with each and every bite. The specials board changes daily, reflecting the Devon coast and countryside and the local emphasis really adds that extra something special. Meat is succulent and delicious, vegetables are cooked to perfection and the seafood offerings show how seafood should be cooked. They have a real penchant for food that is so much more than just a “meal.” Cary Arms provides you with an experience and an event to remember, to cherish and to put the competition to shame. It’s clear to see just why it has been recommended in The Good Food Guide and in the Michelin Eating out Guide.

After dinner you can retire to the adjoining games room for a (in our case) serious game of connect 4 or just recline in one the soft sofas with a post-dinner tipple in hand. Their fully stocked bar offers an array of whiskies, spirits, beers and wines to enjoy.

Complimentary water and magazines are on hand during your visit as a nice added touch. If you are looking for that bit extra, you can also opt for a treatment. There are a wide range of treatments available, including tailored body massages and facials.

For anyone who likes a bit of shopping, you are only a ten minute drive from Torquay town centre with a whole host of high street shops, bars and restaurants to enjoy.