The Cornish countryside is the perfect setting to catch your breath and getaway from it all, but what can this stunning location offer the corporate world? PA Life visits the Cornwall-based St Mawes Hotel and its sister site Idle Rocks to find out.
It’s amazing how somewhere that looks so picturesque and beautiful as Cornwall is just four hours away via a train from London – I’ve had meetings that last longer than that.
Arriving at the St Mawes Hotel, it’s clear that this is a place to escape to, a quiet corner of the world that you can make your own.
I was thrilled to be able to get the chance to visit the St Mawes Hotel. Located in the tranquil seaside town of St Mawes, I couldn’t wait to see what it can offer corporate guests and Londoners looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the City. Meeting the driver outside the train station of the nearest large town of Truro, I could feel an instant familiarity and charm that continued throughout the short drive into the Cornish countryside, among the rolling hills and gorgeous ocean views.
St Mawes Hotel and Idle Rocks Hotel, Photo: Drew Gibson
Arriving at the St Mawes Hotel, it’s clear that this is a place to escape to, a quiet corner of the world that you can make your own. The hotel sits on the seafront, as does almost everything in St Mawes, and most of your needs can be met within the hotel itself. Inside there is a bar and restaurant available, meanwhile The Courtyard Room can also be hired out for private dining events, where guests can host a formal three-course meal. St Mawes is recognised for its sustainability ethos since it sources local produce to respect the Cornish environment, so you can be confident in the fact that you’re supporting all things local when working with the hotel.
was thrilled when I first saw my room – dusky blues, chalky greys and a pure white colour scheme filled the room – just what I needed to help relax after a busy day with work and travelling. It really is ideal if you’re looking to visit a seaside town with your team to help them unwind as part of an incentive treat. The beds themselves were elegant and cosy, while the bathroom is fresh and modern – I truly couldn’t wait to spend the night here.
St Mawes Hotel and Idle Rocks Hotel, Photo: Drew Gibson
Other new installations include the conference room for work, and the cinema screen for play. During my stay the hotel screened a rugby match in the small, intimate cinema room for avid fans to watch, but what you watch there really depends on you and your party.
Sitting down to eat, the food is clean and delicately prepared. Yes, you can eat steaks and other traditional options if you’d like, but you’ll only be cheating yourself. I jumped at the chance to eat as much fish as possible, as each dish is prepared and served in many ways.
The nearest town to St Mawes is the artistic, trendy town of Falmouth, which has seen quite a few changes in recent years. Facing a student boom, the seaside town has a life all of its own, making it an ideal spot for business meetings and trips out with deserving team members.
St Mawes Hotel and Idle Rocks Hotel, Photo: Drew Gibson
For those seeking the height of class, St Mawes’ crowning jewel is its sister hotel, the Idle Rocks; a high-class affair with a restaurant to easily rival that of its city equivalents, and the price is reflective of the quality on offer without being excessive. I was pleased to visit the second site, as Idle Rocks can offer stunning sea views and an on-site restaurant that takes inspiration from France and Asia. Sitting within its grand, open-plan restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows showing off the panoramic sea view, while sipping on a martini is a truly idyllic experience. It was the perfect end to a serene weekend away.
Regardless of which hotel you choose to stay in, it’s certainly worth checking out the Idle Rocks if not only for its cocktail list, including its very own Idle Mess, a drink with the look and flavour of an Eton Mess, served in a cocktail glass.
When the time came to finally leave and dive back into the bright London lights, it was with a full stomach, a clear head, and a spring in my step.
