The Gallivant – the secret is out…

FACT PACK:

Hotel: The Gallivant
Location: Camber Sands, Rye, East Sussex
Phone:
Nearest station: Rye is a 10-minute taxi drive away. If driving there is lots of hotel parking
Pool? No, but there is a ‘spa shed’…
Wi-Fi? Yes, throughout
Perfect for: Couples, families, the whole shebang. In a nutshell, The Gallivant is akin to a simple coastal American motel, but with bags of Scandiavian style and loads of seaside chic. Good food and across the road from some of the biggest sand dunes we’ve seen – what beach bum wouldn’t love it?

Thoughtful details in your room

What was a bit of an insider’s gem, has, over the last year, become the talk of travel town. Everyone from brides and beach seekers to families and fun lovers has heard whisper of The Gallivant. Unsurprising, really, given it’s cool comfortable lodgings and locally sourced, delicious food – and unlimited afternoon tea and homemade cake for guests – keep scrolling for the cake pics!

Small but perfectly formed, the hotel offers a retreat for sandcastle-weary day trippers, who have spent the day exploring the miles of golden Camber Sands, literally just across the road from the hotel. It’s location is exciting for the area, since Camber has always had the raw goods (incredible sandy beach), but no real slick accommodation, that I can think of, to match. I predict a hike in the quality of eateries, and clever investors, in coming years.

The Gallivant calls itself a ‘restaurant with rooms’, because of the high quality of its food. But, although the food is tasty and 95% is sourced within 15 miles of the hotel, I can’t help but feel that is selling itself a little short. There are 20 beautiful bedrooms, all with either King or Super King beds and Hypnos mattresses. Check it out…

Sleep in comfort and style – we stayed in a Luxury Garden Room

Roll top bath

One side of the rooms backs onto this pebble garden, looking down to the spa shed, or ‘Beach Hut’

Ever had a massage in a shed before? No, neither had I. But fear not, all the spiders and forgotten tools never existed in this one. Only peace, calm and deliciously aromatic smelling aromas. There is only one table and one masseuse, so do book ahead of time because the place does get booked up. And for good reason.

I was staying at the hotel because I had bridesmaid duties there the next day, for my best friend. So both she and I had the full body massage, which was sorely needed. The treatment was world class and left us both ready to snuggle up in bed with snacks and a DVD borrowed from reception – not sure ‘Runaway Bride‘ was my best idea, but she did get married the next day, so all’s well that ends well, right?!

Our stay at The Gallivant was extra special, because it is where my best friend got married to her lovely husband, and I was honoured to be bridesmaid. And having the sun shine on her wedding photos while we sipped cocktails, arranged by the hotel, over the road on those sand dunes is unforgettable. But whether you are staying for an occasion such as a wedding, or simply a weekend getaway, you will be sure to leave feeling rejuvenated and spreading the word about the little hotel on one of the best beaches in the country. Camber Sands – get ready for the onslaught of style seekers.