Christmas is fast approaching but before you head into the close confines of your kitchen to feed a continuously grazing herd of friends and family for the best part of 48 hours, why not enjoy a couple of days to yourself?
The hospitality gurus at The Greenbank Hotel in Falmouth have launched an indulgent new getaway especially for foodies, just in time for a restorative pre-Christmas escape.
The Gourmet Getaway at the waterside haven covers all the bases for a greedy weekend for two in Cornwall, including a pre-dinner cocktail, three-course dinner, farewell hamper and, of course, a room for the evening – all for under £200.
Whether you decide to cram in some Christmas shopping, explore the mesmerising landscape by foot or swot up on the rich history of the hotel (guests have included Florence Nightingale and Kenneth Grahame) in The Working Boat pub downstairs, there are myriad ways to pass time before the palate pampering begins with a cocktail in the award-winning bar.
Stunning Fal views will be the backdrop to your three-course dinner at the aptly named Water’s Edge restaurant, where you’ll be fed and inspired by executive chef Nick Hodges and head chef Bobby Southworth. A homage to fresh Cornish produce, their menus feature a sublime collection of creatively presented dishes, crafted from local seasonal ingredients.
Hearty meat options like fillet medallion with slow-cooked jacob’s ladder rib hand-raised pie, truffle mash, cabbage, peas and bacon sit alongside vegetarian dishes such as roasted butternut and sage tart with shallots, celeriac puree and burnt-onion jus. Desserts include temptations like peanut-butter mousse with brittle crumb, caramelised banana and ice cream, so there’s every reason to treat yourself.
It’s just a short stroll from the restaurant to bed, where you can drift off and digest in a stylish sanctuary of tranquillity, before rising for a leisurely breakfast. Be sure to leave some space in your suitcase as you won’t be leaving empty-handed: The Greenbank is gifting all Gourmet Getaway guests a farewell hamper packed with premium brands and Cornish produce including crackers, tea, chutney, sea salt, chocolate, fudge, jam and its own signature shortbread.
Don’t worry if you can’t get away before Christmas as The Greenbank Gourmet Getaways will be available throughout 2022, so there’s plenty of time to treat yourself or foodie friends. Prices start at £189 for two.