Cobblers Cove: Simple Elegance

The world's best hotels offer many things that visitors like and want to experience again and again. Some offer service that is flawless. Others offer food that is divine. Some others offer selections of fixtures and fittings that show a certain refined taste. Each fine hotel tries to set itself apart visibly and intangibly from the others.

One of the ways that Cobblers Cove is trying to stand out is by its choice of furniture and decoration for its rooms. It shows a certain simple charm, often seen in older English or European homes. The room we had included china in the Delft style--in traditional blue and white.

Another feature we saw and liked was the choice of toiletries. Living in England can make you into a snob of sorts. Visiting England can make a snob even snobbier. If I see Penhaligon brands I know that I am in a good hotel. If I see Molton Brown, I also know that I am in a good hotel. If I see both, especially in public washrooms, I take notice. If my wife sees Floris, she sighs. When we see all three, we nearly die. The floral decoration around it all just begs you to be spoilt.

I have never before stayed at a hotel that had a double shower--ie two separate showers in one large space, not one shower fitting that does two things. Double sinks? Yes--and what a relief, my wife's face shows as she sees me looking at the side that has the extending shaving mirror.Bath and jacuzzi? Yes. But never double showers.

Then, it all gets to be a bit too much. Two white towelling bath robes--nice. But, look. Two blue and white striped cotton robes--a Delft touch?

Cleanliness is near to Godliness. So, take me to be cleaned.