In 'one of the most idyllic spots ever', this dog-friendly hotel 'near the end of an extremely narrow lane' overlooks pretty clifftop gardens filled with larky sculpture and Wonderland whimsy. The playfulness extends to zany public spaces inside, where wall sculpture might include a full-size pair of legs or part of a table and chair. Bedrooms have colourful wallpapers and fabrics, perhaps with a nautical or woodland theme. 'Room 20, overlooking the gardens to the sea, had a terrace, a hot tub and plenty of space.' The kitchen sticks to a reliable repertoire that it does extremely well – the food gets a big thumbs up: 'very good quality' and 'absolutely delicious'. Typical dishes might include Looe sea bass with spinach crab cake, roasted rump of lamb with wild garlic salsa verde, or, if you will, haddock and chips. There is praise for the 'enthusiastic staff' who ensure nothing is forgotten. 'We were celebrating a special anniversary and were kindly given a card and chocolates at dinner.' A breakfast of smoked haddock, St Ewe eggs or a full Cornish supplies the ballast for a hike on the South West Coast Path, while later in the day, you can try the hotel's own-label gin on the terrace. 'Our second visit to Talland Bay and most enjoyable.' (Suzanne Lyons, M and EL)