ON THE WAY

BANNISTERS HOTEL

There are many places on the south coast of NSW to break the journey to Eden. Few surpass Bannisters when it comes to cocktails by the pool, or dinner. This is where international celebrity chef Rick Stein has a restaurant. 191 Mitchell Parade, Mollymook. (02) 4455 3044; bannisters.com.au

WHALE MOTOR INN

Perched on one of the highest points in town, this retro-with-all-the-mod-cons motel has stupendous views over the Wagonga Inlet and the Pacifific Ocean. Take a seat in the Ocean Lounge, order a schooner and keep an eye out for passing whales, in season. 102 Wagonga Street (Princes Highway) Narooma. (02) 4476 2411; whalemotorinn.com

TANJA LAGOON CAMP

A favourite stop-offff — and a destination in its own right — is this luxury safari tent camp. It’s a good base to enjoy all the water and bush activities on offffer, from canoeing and kayaking to restorative walks and stargazing. 142 Haighs Road, Tanja. (02) 6494 0123; tanjalagooncamp.com.au

THE RIVERSLEIGH

An ideal overnight stop for Melbourne travellers. Choose from one of 21 elegant rooms in this Victorian terrace, built in 1884. You’re right in the middle of town, overlooking the Mitchell River. 1 Nicholson Street, Bairnsdale, Victoria. (03) 5152 6966; riversleigh.com.au