Salty Air – Mount Brioni

Hotel Description

You know what? I’ve driven past Salty Air – Mount Brioni probably a dozen times over the years heading to Looe, and I always wondered about that place perched up on the hill. Finally stayed there last month and honestly, I’m kicking myself for waiting so long.

The thing about Downderry is that most people just zip through on their way to the bigger coastal towns, but they’re missing out. Salty Air sits right on Looe Hill with these sweeping views over Whitsand Bay that are… well, they’re pretty spectacular actually. You can see clear across to Rame Head on a good day, and the sunrise views are something else – I mean, if you’re the type who gets up early enough to catch them. The building itself has that classic Cornish cottage feel but properly done up – none of that tired seaside B&B vibe you sometimes get. It’s got four stars and honestly feels like it earned every one of them.

What really got me was the attention to detail. The rooms have this lovely mix of modern comfort with genuine character – thick stone walls that actually keep things quiet (you’d be surprised how rare that is), and proper blackout curtains for those summer mornings when the sun’s up at 5 AM. The beds are seriously comfortable too, which matters more than people think when you’ve been hiking the coastal path all day. Speaking of which, you’re literally on the South West Coast Path here – step out the front door and you can walk to Looe in one direction or head toward Rame Peninsula the other way. No need to drive anywhere and hunt for parking, which anyone who’s tried to park in Looe during summer will appreciate.

The staff actually know the area, which sounds basic but isn’t always the case. They pointed me toward this little cove near Seaton that I’d never found before, and suggested the best times to visit Monkey Sanctuary when it’s not crawling with coach parties. Breakfast was proper good too – local suppliers, clearly, and they don’t rush you out the door. There’s something to be said for starting your day with decent coffee while looking out over the sea instead of rushing around trying to find somewhere that’s open early.

The 9.4 rating makes complete sense once you’ve been there. It’s not trying to be some fancy resort – it’s just doing everything really well. The location gives you that proper Cornwall coastal experience without the crowds, the building’s got character without being stuffy, and you get the sense that the people running it actually care about the place. Perfect if you want to explore this stretch of coast properly, or honestly, if you just want to sit on the terrace with a book and watch the boats going in and out of Looe harbor. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $172. Holiday Home with 1 double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Tammy from United Kingdom – 29 December 2024 (10/10)

  This place is beautiful the view are stunning. The apartment is spotless and spacious. One of the best place I’ve stayed and dog friendly
  
  What could be improved: Could do with blackout blind in bedroom as very light but only a suggestion

• Katarzyna from United Kingdom – 17 August 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful location, amazing views

• Sulabh from United Kingdom – 3 August 2024 (10/10)

  Property was well maintained and best part of the property was its location.
  
  My family really enjoyed our stay and kids just love it.
  
  Beach was also excellent. It felt like Spanish holiday in the UK..
  
  What could be improved: There were no shops near by, nearest shop was in Looe, which was 5 miles. But if you plan right then you cen get delivery from all supermarket like Tesco..

• Kelly from United Kingdom – 17 July 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful view. Lovely location

• Tess from United Kingdom – 26 June 2023 (10/10)

  There was nothing we didn't like. It was just beautiful! Having the dogs with us was a real bonus too. The care package was excellent, plenty for our needs.
  
  What could be improved: We really had to work hard to find something to put on our form. We could have done with a hand towel in the loo instead of having to give up an individuals hand towel. Also a few more teaspoons would be good but these are such minor things…

• Charlotte from United Kingdom – 6 June 2023 (8/10)

  view

• Jill from United Kingdom – 16 April 2023 (10/10)

  We arrived early and following a very prompt response from the owner, we were able to check in at an earlier time, which enabled us to settle in and have some time to explore the local area. Soon after arrival, we were greeted by the owner, Jackie, which was lovely. The apartment was immaculate and more spacious and better equipped than we had expected. Obviously, a very well run operation.
  
  What could be improved: All excellent

• Pauline from United Kingdom – 1 January 2023 (10/10)

  very comfortable with fantastic views with friendly staff.
  
  What could be improved: everything was great, no complaints.

• Karen from United Kingdom – 3 October 2022 (10/10)

  Stunning views.
  Great location.
  Easy quick walk to beach/cafe restaurant/ pub

• Carol from United Kingdom – 23 July 2022 (7/10)

  fabulous location next to the beach
  
  What could be improved: nothing not to like i liked everything

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities