First impressions

A moored liner on the shore of Salcombe Estuary, the Marine has been a hotel for more than 100 years. Embraces every age. Old hands return year after year.

Why it’s special

You could never be bored watching the boats. Set the time by the South Sands ferry chugging up and down; spy breathtaking yachts easing up the channel.

Hitting the sack

You fall asleep with the moonlight on the water and wake to the cry of gulls. Rooms vary. We moved to the second floor — on the first, the dining room roof impeded the view.

Sampling the fare

“Traditional” and generally excellent. Main courses include roasts. Dinners are good value, but wines pricey. A tinkling piano lends period charm.

Added attractions

Indoor swimming pool, air-conditioned gym, a lawn beside the estuary and a sun deck.

Access all areas

There is a lift, and the dining room, bar and lounge are all on one huge open-plan “deck”.

What we think

Slightly frayed, but splendidly positioned. It’s close to the heart of Salcombe, the least spoilt of Devon coastal villages.

The bottom line

A double estuary-side room with a balcony — no point in taking any other — ranges from £135 a night in low season to £260 in high. Includes breakfast and dinner.

Need to know

Menzies Marine Hotel (01548 844444, www.bookmenzies.com), Cliff Road, Salcombe, South Devon.

Times recommends

• Checking into ‘Europe’s dirtiest hotel’
• The best out of season European breaks
• Smugshots special: wintersports