Sleepover: A bed in the Scilly Isles

Where is it?

There are few more enjoyable ways to arrive at a hotel than by boat. And that's just how visitors must travel to St Martin's on the Isle, because this plush hotel is set on a tiny island of the same name in the Scillies, off the tip of Cornwall.

Describe the setting

Designed to look like a row of traditional fishermen's cottages, the hotel's real identity is belied by a line of smart thatch umbrellas which come into view as the old tub from St Mary's turns into the bay. Behind the facade, it's one big hotel, with a bar and lounge at its heart, a restaurant on the first floor with great views of the bay, and 30 bedrooms spread along a labyrinth of corridors (which need some serious signposting).

Does it have a USP?

The setting is second to none. The island is gorgeous; a grassy hump fringed with dunes and white-sand beaches, surrounded by crystal waters.

Comfort factor?

While the hotel is spotless and well maintained, it suffers from tired interiors. The décor is stuck firmly in the Eighties, a mish-mash of patterns and colours. It's such a shame because it could be so beautiful if the cool, fresh tones of the surrounding natural landscape were replicated inside. More positively, our large family en-suite (with balcony) was a good size, with space for a couch as well as a decent-sized bed. Smaller doubles and larger suites are also available.

What's in the bathroom?

Pristine and modern, with walk-in showers, fluffy towels and toiletries by Molton Brown.

I'm hungry?

Light lunches are available in the Round Island Bar. An excellent children's tea is laid on in the Tean restaurant at 5pm. But dinner is the best meal of the day, with artfully presented dishes that burst with flavour – the seafood is particularly good.

What are the people like?

General manager Keith Bradford meets guests off the boat, setting a friendly tone. His manner may be casual but this is a tightly run ship and standards are very high – the clientele wouldn't settle for anything less, because this is a favourite bolthole for wealthy middle-class families.

Local interest?

This is a great place for a relaxing family holiday: there are lovely beaches, calm waters and quiet country lanes. The hotel provides beach toys and the local shop hires out bicycles. Boat trips, fishing, sailing and watersports can be arranged. Gig-racing season takes place regularly from April to September. On site, there is a pool and snooker room.

Access for all?

The hotel has bedrooms on the ground floor and staff can help wheelchair users get to the restaurant.

What's the damage?

A four-night break costs £420 per person, based on two sharing, including breakfast and dinner. Drinks (excluding champagne) are included in the price until 30 April. Children sharing a room with two parents stay free, only paying for food. I travelled to St Martin's courtesy of Isles of Scilly Travel (0845 710 5555; www.ios-travel.co.uk), which offers skybus, helicopter or boat crossings from Bristol, Exeter, Newquay or Land's End.

Address?

St Martin's on the Isle, St Martin's, Isles of Scilly TR25 0QU (01720 422090; www.prideofbritainhotels.co.uk).