When we arrived at the Lugger on a stormy January day, half of Cornwall was under water and the picturesque cove it overlooks had been transformed into a froth of raging grey-brown waves.

Needless to say, clifftop walking was out – and rather gleefully, we settled down in our elegant, sea-facing room for a pot of tea and homemade lemon biscuits. Because the Lugger, a 17th century smuggler’s inn, is charming whatever the weather. Perched on the edge of the Roseland Peninsula with dramatic cliff views all around, it couldn’t be closer to the sea and come winter, it’s a wild and romantic spot. We ventured out for a quick, rain-swept foray into the tiny village of Portloe and admired the rugged clifftops and postcard-perfect harbour that lies in front of the hotel before retreating within for a cognac by the living room log fire.

Review: The Lugger Hotel, Cornwall