Almost all the incoming calls come from the birds at Victoria and Nicholas Sanders’s ‘welcoming hotel’ on the Lizard peninsula. Forgo mobile reception; never mind the lack of landline. Instead, enjoy uninterrupted sea views from virtually every room in the house. Nearly all the bedrooms look across Coverack Bay; the best have a balcony, or French doors that open on to a private terrace. Some rooms may be snug, but all are decorated in a pleasing palette of Cornish seaside hues. Cross the tiered gardens to get to the beach, or head further afield: a coastal path starts at the foot of the drive. Fresh lobster and seasonal fare are served in the candlelit restaurant at dinner, chefs Ric House and Chris Conboye’s menus change daily, according to the catch of the bay. Full Cornish breakfasts.