‘A charming place in a charming situation’, Fiona and Paul Robinson’s ‘stylish, informal’ New England-inspired hotel soaks in the spread of Gerrans Bay. There’s no flash or ostentation, Guide readers say, just ‘attentive, amiable staff’, a family-friendly, seasidey feel and an ‘abundance of calm’. The ‘beautifully landscaped’ garden is dotted with Adirondack chairs; in the evening, hurricane lamps are set out for alfresco drinks and nibbles. Comfortable contemporary rooms (some with a private terrace; all but one with a coastal view) are decorated in a palette of sand and sea. In the airy restaurant – dine early so you can eat in the glow of the evening light through the large windows – chef Chris Eden has a Michelin star for his ‘delicious, flavourful’, flower- and herb-strewn dishes. Among his ‘very special’ plates: asparagus, fresh verbena curd, truffle, confit egg yolk; John Dory, mussels, pickled cucumber, samphire, morels. Have a ‘plentiful breakfast’ before making your way across the lawn and down the woodland path to the peaceful private beach – a picnic hamper can be packed on request. (JP, and others)