Address: St David's, Pembrokeshire SA62 6BN.
Phone: 01437 720300.
First impressions: Brooding neo-gothic pile perched on the edge of Wales above the wild and windswept Atlantic. The tang of salt spray hangs in the air as you climb out of your car at the end of the hotel's daffodil- and crocus-lined drive to wander into a warm, welcoming bar with a crackling log fire.
What are the rooms like? Many are lined with lovely, hand-painted tiles - there are 3,000 around the hotel - and most rooms have absolutely spectacular sea views.
The bed test: Mine was firm and comfortable and big enough to sail across the nearby Atlantic.
The bathroom test: Spacious and bright with a deep, relaxing bath and plenty of fluffy towels.
The restaurant: Superb locally produced food served at tables overlooking Pembrokeshire's offshore islands and ships in the bay. The Welsh beef fillet steak was possibly the best I've ever tasted and the wine list is excellent.
The bar: Beautiful hand-painted tiles featuring armorial displays, medieval illumination and miniature scenes related to one of the hotel's previous owners are set above the fireplace and around the room, and inevitably become a talking point over after- dinner drinks.
What is there to do within walking distance? The Pembrokeshire Coast Path passes the hotel, and the 11th-century St David's Cathedral is just a stroll away. It's five minutes' drive to Whitesands Bay, one of the best beaches in Wales.
How much a night? From £50pp B&B, from £70 with dinner.
