insideKENT Magazine Issue 31 - October 2014 | Page 107

Owners, David and Sharon Parker Met by a stunning selection of canapés in the bar, my guest and I were left to peruse the table d’hôte menu over a drink or two, before being shown to our candlelit table. Perfectly seared pan-fried scallops were my starter of choice, topped off with crispy Parma ham, pea and mint purée, and a wonderfully piquant salsa verde. Meanwhile, my guest's seafood cocktail did exactly what it said on the tin and provided an elegant medley of crayfish tails, prawns and smoked salmon, matched with pineapple, baby gem salad and a classic marie rose sauce. Perfect. In the way of mains, I enjoyed chicken, basil, sun blushed tomatoes and mozzarella wrapped in prosciutto and paired with sauté potatoes and a divine pesto drizzle, while my guest opted for pork tenderloin, served with sauté potatoes, wilted spinach and a creamy calvados sauce. Both dishes were seamlessly prepared and exquisite in flavour and execution. Now on to dessert, and I had come up with a new theory: if they say it takes an average of 20 minutes for your brain to realise that you're full, why stop eating before the time is up? So, with five whole minutes to spare, I ordered. Failing this, perhaps I can roll across the garden and into my room. The ideal finale, my homemade crème brûlée did not disappoint, complimented by a sweet red berry compote and buttery shortbread. Three courses down and it's certainly not hard to see why Boscundle's culinary team is deserved of its two AA rosettes. With head chef, Adam Gerrish, at the helm, the restaurant focuses on serving up exquisite dishes that employ only the finest locally produced and seasonal ingredients. A dining experience to remember, it’s elements such as these that takes the hotel from ordinary to extraordinary. After an undisturbed night's sleep, breakfast the next morning was enjoyed in the airy climes of the conservatory. A buffet of fresh pastries, fruits, yoghurts, cereals and juices awaits guests; while a wide range of hot, cooked options are available to order via the breakfast menu. An enchanting find, Boscundle Manor wears its heart on its sleeve, and is therefore one of those magical places that upon visiting, you immediately pledge your future return. Next up on my mini-breaker agenda was a trip to the hotel’s Zento Spa for a pre-booked Swedish massage with spa manager, Vicky Dyer. A haven of wellbeing, the in-house spa offers a plethora of relaxing and invigorating treatments for the body and mind including Spiezia signature treatments, massages, body wraps, facials and more. In the way of beauty, luxury manicures through to lash and brow treatments are also available. The perfect kind of love affair, I think I may have found my favourite Cornish hideaway. I was never good at keeping secrets anyway... This is not solely a product of the befitting interiors, exceptional dining and leisure facilities, but more so a reflection of the professional and attentive team, who while in their care, cannot do enough for you. Treating their clientele as houseguests, the experience David and Sharon have created at Boscundle is a personal one, and that in itself speaks volumes. Weddings at Boscundle Manor Voted the most romantic hotel in the region on TripAdvisor, it is little wonder that weddings are such a big business at Boscundle Manor. As well as a dreamy sense of romance, a wedding here offers exclusivity, flexibility and a beautifully personal event. Whether you have a small party of up to 50 guests or a larger party of 100, expert event planner and owner, Sharon, will go above and beyond to ensure Boscundle meets and exceeds all of your expectations. This includes recommendations of trusted florists, photographers, and more, to ease the organisation process and create your perfect big day. Just what the doctor ordered, my massage was outstanding, and by far the most beneficial and enjoyable treatment I have ever experienced. Relieving tension and stress – particularly from the neck and shoulders, as requested – Vicky tailored the hour to my needs and ensured I left feeling relaxed and recharged. In addition, the spa facilities at Boscundle include a bubbling hot tub and indoor heated pool. There is also accommodation for up to 30 guests, and the full wedding party is entitled to full exclusivity of the hotel, with private access to all of the facilities throughout the event. To find out more, download Boscundle Manor's wedding brochure at www.boscundlemanor.co.uk/get-married-at-boscundle-manor. So, whether you're looking for a weeklong break, a relaxing weekend away or alike, Boscundle Manor is the ideal spot to cosy up in Cornwall this autumn. From roaring open fireplaces to fabulous hearty dishes, the team is intent on achieving ultimate guest comfort when it comes to the colder seasons. Alternatively, if you want to wrap up and head out, you will find the world-famous Eden Project just one mile away, plus a whole host of towns and villages, attractions, gardens and beaches within an hour's reach. What's more, the team at Boscundle will be more than happy to help you plan your trip. insideKENT reader offer David and Sharon Parker would like to offer a complimentary room upgrade worth £20 per night, 25% off all spa treatments and a stay for a third consecutive night for free to insideKENT readers (excludes Fridays, Saturdays, Christmas, New Year and Valentine’s). Just mention our publication when making your booking. Offer expires 31st March 2015. St Austell Cornwall PL25 3RL 01726 813557 www.boscundlemanor.co.uk 107