If you're looking for Georgian elegance with all the luxuries of contemporary living in the heart of the country, somewhere to enjoy a relaxing weekend soaking up all the atmosphere of a grand country house or simply a place to enjoy fine food in a luxurious setting, The Verzon, two miles from Ledbury on the Hereford Road, is just the

place for you.

This family-owned hotel, bar and brasserie is a stunning country house that has been sympathetically converted and totally refurbished. It is set in more than four acres of beautiful grounds with terrific views over the Malvern Hills and prides itself on offering a unique and stylish experience to guests who stay in the hotel or diners who take advantage of the inspired, classic menus.

Hotel manager Justin Pinchbeck says when the family took over last year they knew exactly how they wanted The Verzon to be.

"We wanted to create a boutique hotel, a specialist, niche hotel offering something a bit special. You won't find standard hotel furnishings here, we like to think we give discerning customers something to smile about."

Indeed, with eight individually designed bedrooms, all of which have goose-down duvets, hand-sprung beds, Egyptian percale linens, Molton Brown toiletries and CD players, it would be hard for even the fussiest of guests to find fault. Most rooms also come with spectacular views of the Herefordshire countryside.

The bar and brasserie boast similar standards. There's a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere and the service is friendly and unobtrusive. The young, talented kitchen team stick to basics and have already achieved an AA rosette for simple yet imaginatively prepared food using outstanding local produce.

Specialities include Fillet of Much Marcle beef, horseradish rosti, shallot confit and Platter of Herefordshire apple desserts, which includes baked apple crumble, Weston's cider jelly and apple strudel ice cream.

The beauty of the The Verzon is in the many areas to relax and take in the atmosphere. The Mulberry bar has colonial leather furniture, exposed brickwork, limestone flooring and modern artwork. The cosy lounge is ideal for reading the newspapers or taking afternoon tea and the stylish Garden suite is a fabulously stylish venue for a private party or wedding. During the summer, the garden comes in to its own, serving lunch and dinner on the new split-level decked terrace with its comfy furniture and smart parasols.

House party weddings are a speciality, with a bespoke service on offer. "We have the facilities to make a special day become an unforgettable weekend," Justin said. Corporate events are also popular because everything is individual and done to an exceptionally high standard.

The Verzon is quite simply a unique hotel in a wonderful place offering everything you could ever want from a country house hotel - and the surprise is that the prices are affordable, too.