As soon as I pulled open the door to Hotel Du Vin Exeter the corners of my mouth curled up into very happy smile.
The restoration and refurbishment of the Grand Hospital Building in the heart of Exeter has been expertly done with so many original features remaining, it draws you in to explore.
There is a very expensive feel to the hotel lobby with muted tones bringing out the colours of the original mosaic floor. As you venture through, the light shafts from the tall hospital windows fall on modern design statements which make it feel exciting and fresh.
Our Junior Suite was a riot of colour, which echoed 180-degree views out over Exeter to the Verdant Estuary and beyond. The two balconies enabled us to enjoy our morning coffee in the sunshine and made me excited for the day ahead.
The Bistro has also undergone a refurbishment and serves up a brilliant breakfast. This is where the adult sized, crispy, artisan pastries are served, along with a lovely vibrant freshly cooked breakfast menu, which included all of your usual suspects as well as vegan breakfast with ‘merguez sausage’ and vegan black pudding.
After we digested, it seemed crazy to rush out without exploring the outdoor pool and spa. In February I hear you cry you must be crazy but fear not, this was not an ice bath experience! The indoor jacuzzi with swim out tunnel was heated to a lovely temperature and I can imagine in summer this is the place to be. You would never know such a beautiful spa spot was situated in the middle of a city!
If you did want to leave the hotel, you don’t have to, but if you did you could easily walk to the Quay in Exeter. This area has undergone some major regeneration and has lot of shops and restaurants in a gorgeous setting.
There is no need to eat out though. The Bistro specialises in steak and specifically a Chateaubriand for 2! What a beauty. The meat was cooked to perfection and served with all trimmings; we dined like queens.
Walking around the grounds, I noticed they also have their own bee hive, Hotel du Bug composting site and kitchen garden. The sustainability credentials continue with a scheme for money back to spend in the bar if you decline the daily room clean and towel change.
There really is a lot to smile about at Hotel Du Vin Exeter. See you by the pool.
Review and Images by Emmie Blower @emmiebhungry
Feature image courtesy of Hotel du Vin
