Following Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ recognition of Gara Rock as Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Salcombe, England, World Luxury Chamber of Commerce President Alexander Chetchikov sat down with Hannah Evans, Marketing Manager of the acclaimed seaside retreat. In this exclusive conversation, Hannah discusses the art of hospitality, the evolving meaning of luxury, and how Gara Rock continues to redefine relaxation on the South Devon coast.

Alexander Chetchikov: Hannah, congratulations on Gara Rock being named Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Salcombe, England! What do you think sets the hotel apart and makes it so loved by guests?

Hannah Evans: We’re absolutely thrilled to have been named Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Salcombe by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards. It’s a real honor and a testament to the incredible team we have here at Gara Rock. What truly sets Gara Rock apart is its unique cliffside location overlooking the stunning South Devon coastline. It offers an escape that feels both wonderfully remote and deeply luxurious. Guests come here to unwind in nature, enjoy breathtaking views, and experience a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.

AC:Gara Rock has a fascinating history, evolving from a coastguard station to a modern retreat. How does that heritage influence the way you run the property today?

HE: From its origins as a coastguard station to its time as a retreat for artists and writers, the site has always drawn people seeking peace, inspiration, and connection to the sea. We’ve embraced that legacy in everything we do—from the design that nods to its rugged past, to the way we encourage guests to slow down and soak up the natural beauty around them. Our goal has always been to respect the charm and character of Gara’s past while offering the modern comforts and experiences our guests today are looking for.

AC:The hotel offers a rare balance between sophistication and simplicity. How do you maintain that relaxed atmosphere while ensuring an exceptional level of service?

HE: Striking that balance between sophistication and simplicity is something we’re really proud of at Gara Rock. It’s at the heart of what we do, creating a space that feels elevated but never intimidating. Our interiors are stylish yet unpretentious, our food is refined but rooted in local ingredients and seasonal flavors, and our service is always warm and genuine. Ultimately, we want people to feel like they can kick off their shoes, breathe in the sea air, and just be themselves—while still enjoying the kind of care and quality you’d expect from a luxury boutique hotel.

AC:In recent years, the definition of “luxury” has shifted. From your perspective, what does true luxury in hospitality look like today?

HE: At Gara Rock, we’ve seen a real shift in what guests are looking for. It’s not just about high-end finishes or fine dining – although those are important – but about how a place makes you feel. Having the freedom to slow down. It’s the quiet moments – watching the sunrise over the sea, sharing great food with loved ones, walking the coast path without a schedule. It’s about feeling genuinely welcome, cared for, and completely at ease. We believe luxury lies in the details – the personalized touches, the quality of the environment, the connection to the location. And more than anything, it’s about creating a space where people can truly switch off and reconnect with what matters most.

AC:Many travelers are now seeking experiences rooted in authenticity and connection. How does Gara Rock deliver that kind of meaningful guest experience?

HE: Our location does a lot of the talking – perched above the South West Coast Path with views that stop you in your tracks. It naturally encourages guests to slow down, explore, and immerse themselves in the landscape. But beyond that, we focus on experiences that feel genuine – from locally sourced menus that celebrate Devon’s produce, to thoughtful design that reflects the area’s heritage including partnerships with local artists. Our team plays a huge role too. They’re passionate about this place and love sharing it with guests – whether it’s recommending a secret cove to visit, a local wine to try, or simply offering a warm, personal welcome.

AC:Let’s talk about your team. What leadership approach do you believe creates a culture that consistently delivers memorable stays?

HE: We lead with warmth, personality, and purpose. Our leadership approach puts people first – empowering teams to be themselves, think differently, and create truly personal guest experiences. By championing creativity, embracing and focusing on every step of the guest journey, we foster a culture where both team and guest feel like part of the family. It’s this down-to-earth, experience-led leadership that helps us deliver breaks that are remembered for all the right reasons.

AC:Sustainability is an increasing focus in luxury travel. How does Gara Rock integrate responsible practices into its operations without compromising guest comfort?

HE: We believe that luxury and sustainability can absolutely go hand in hand, and we’re committed to making thoughtful choices that protect our environment without compromising the guest experience. We invite guests to connect more deeply with the land and sea around them—whether it’s through walking, wildlife watching, or simply appreciating the quiet beauty of our location. It fosters a sense of care that we hope stays with them long after they leave.

AC:Finally, what does this recognition from Luxury Lifestyle Awards mean to you and your team on a personal and professional level?

HE: It’s incredibly rewarding to see the hard work, creativity, and passion of our entire team acknowledged on such a respected platform. We’ve always believed in creating something truly special at Gara Rock – somewhere that feels like a world of its own, yet warmly welcoming. To have that vision recognized as the Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Salcombe is not just an honor, it’s a huge boost for everyone here. More than anything, this award reflects the experiences of our guests – the memories they’ve made, the moments they’ve cherished, and the fact that they leave already dreaming of their next visit. That’s what drives us, and this accolade reinforces that we’re on the right path.

Thank you, Hannah, for sharing your time and valuable insights into the people, philosophy, and passion that make Gara Rock a true standout in British coastal hospitality.

To learn more about Gara Rock’s award-winning experience, visit https://www.gararock.com/.