The setting is, of course, gorgeous and the hotel beautiful and full of wonderful nooks and crannies and rich history, all worth exploring. But what stood out most was the staff, who were friendly and helpful in a way that suggested they actually wanted to be working there, and actually wanted to make your stay not just nice but wonderful.
Little touches were appreciated, including the provision of local bus passes to get around, and the lovely welcome gift the hotel provided when they found we were celebrating our 10th anniversary there.