A MOLLYMOOK MOMENT
Sun, surf and serenity awaits on the New South Wales South Coast
We expected to have a nice time in Mollymook, but never expected to be completely blown away by the beauty and charm of this sleepy South Coast surf town, a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney. Here’s a guide of where to eat a delicious, lovingly prepared lunch, drink the perfect drop of wine, relax over brunch, indulge in a decadent dinner and stay at an unforgettable penthouse.
EAT TALLWOOD EATERY
Just around the corner from our hotel is this local favourite, where we are served a perfect flat white and fresh banana bread. On Sunday morning, we opt for an even closer venue and wander upstairs to Bannisters Rooftop Bar and Grill, which has a buffet as well as a regular breakfast menu. We opt to pick from the buffet, and order an extra smashed avocado too. Everything is served very quickly, with a smile. tallwoodeat.com.au
MILK HAUS
Another lunch option you can’t pass up is Milk Haus, situated in the Old Cheese Factory in Woodstock. You can expect simple but incredibly tasty wholefoods sourced locally as well as from their farm. milkhaus.com.au
RICK STEIN AT BANNISTERS
A true icon, Rick Stein at Bannisters lives up to the many glowing reviews I’d read in the lead-up to our dinner. With chic beach-side interiors and impeccable service, this is a special night out (albeit a bit more on the pricey side). If you love seafood, you’ll be happy. bannisters.com.au/rick-stein
EAT CUPITT’S
Wine, cheese and stunning views – what more could you want? We are treated to a tour of the family-owned winery, learning about the history of the vineyard and how the Cupitt family came to acquire this stunning place. Not only are they making lovely wine, they also make their own beer and cheese, and we made sure to purchase a selection of everything to enjoy at home. The restaurant follows a farm-to-table philosophy and everything they do at Cupitt’s is done with sustainability at the forefront. cupitt.com.au
DO BANNISTERS MOLLYMOOK DAY SPA
If you want to unwind and radiate joy and wellbeing, head to the spa for some major relaxation. I was treated to the aptly named ‘Back to Bliss’ 60-minute massage – the perfect way to say goodbye to stress and leave walking on clouds.
DO PAM BURRIDGE SURF SCHOOL
The highlight of our weekend was our surf lesson with Aussie surfing legend Pam Burridge. Very cool and down-to-earth, Pam is a fantastic teacher and guided two very inexperienced surfer wannabes through an hour-long class. Don’t be afraid to give it a go if you’ve never surfed (like me) – she got us both standing up in 60 minutes!
STAY BANNISTERS PAVILION HOTEL
I fear I’ve now been ruined for any other hotel room I stay in, as the penthouse at Bannisters Pavilion was pure luxury – and bigger than our entire apartment in Sydney!
The Pavilion is one of three Bannisters hotel and accommodation offerings in Mollymook, and the architecture and interior design impresses my architect fiancé, which is a huge feat.
The large deck just off our bedroom is a nice touch and a lovely spot for an early morning coffee and afternoon wine.
On the whole, the location feels very boutique. It’s big enough to feel like you have space to yourself, while also being cosy and intimate.