Looking for a trip back in time but with all the modern luxuries you’ve come to expect? These retro inspired stays in NSW might be what you’re looking for.
If you’ve ever stopped at the roadside motel in Australia for the night, you’ve probably experienced the dusty carpet, the quilted doona cover that touches the floor and hides two lumpy pillows within its folds, and the dated bathroom with a clingy shower curtain. While these rooms offer a place to rest your weary head, they offer little in the way of style or flair.
But recently, many of these humble motels have received a retro facelift, and nowhere is this revival more evident than along the stunning NSW South Coast. From Wollongong to Eden, a wave of retro motels with revamped aesthetics, modern comforts, local products and luxurious linens are delighting road trippers.
So, check out these fresh and funky stays on your next South Coast road trip.
The Berry View, Berry
Stepping through The Berry View’s unmissable orange doors you’ll be greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows, mid-century modern furnishings and oak wood flooring. The impeccably clean bathrooms exude style and some of the rooms offer a kitchenette and double bunks.
When you need a snack head into town where Berry’s famous donut van has been feeding weary travellers for 50 years.
From here, it’s one hour south to Mollymook, with a detour through Huskisson to see the pearly white sands of Hyams Beach or cruise the waters of Jervis Bay on a whale or dolphin watching tour to see the resident pod of 100 dolphins who live in the bay year-round.
The Mollymook Motel, Mollymook
Perched at the top of town, this motel offers easy access to the twin towns of Mollymook and Ulladulla. The rooms are bright and fresh, and have a small kitchenette if you want to stay in and enjoy a meal on the private balcony overlooking Mollymook.
The natural wood furniture and bright, beachy artwork echoes Mollymook’s relaxed vibe, making a peaceful retreat after a long drive. While it doesn’t have a pool, it’s just a short drive to Mollymook’s golden shoreline, the perfect place for a morning stroll and a dip.
From here, continue an hour south to Batemans Bay, stopping in at the unassuming Fish Shop on Burrill Lake for the region’s best fish and chips. And detour off the highway to Pebbly Beach if you want to check out the mob of kangaroos who are often seen relaxing on the sand.
The Isla, Batemans Bay
Kitted out with modern tech, the Isla makes for a fuss-free stay in Batemans Bay. The rooms are all set up with digital keypads, the bar has a vending machine filled with fancy drinks and treats, and any last-minute items you might’ve forgotten (sunscreen, toothpaste, towels etc).
Music plays on repeat in the pool and the pool lounge is the place to lay back with a book. The earthy-toned rooms have plenty of space to eat, sleep or work, and the guide book shares all the best local hot spots.
While it’s a decent walk from Batemans Bay town, it’s only a short stroll from the cafes of Batehaven.
Next stop, Bermagui, is about 90 minutes further south. Stop in at Bodalla for a delicious milkshake or bush tucker flavoured cheese from the Bodalla Dairy Shed.
Bermagui Beach Hotel, Bermagui
Bermagui’s famous natural rock pool, The Blue Pool, is the main attraction in this sleepy fishing village. Oh and the delicious bread and croissants from artisan bakery Honorbread.
And if you book a stay at Bermagui Beach Motel, you’ll be treated to some Honorbread croissants for breakfast, alongside a healthy bowl of locally made granola. The ground floor rooms have a lovely courtyard with views of the waves crashing on the beach, and the pub next door serves up epic pub meals.
Take the scenic one hour drive along the coast to Tathra, then continue on to Merimbula.