Cool change
The overwater bungalows at Novotel Sunshine Coast resort are perfectly situated to catch the breezes
The couple in the tandem kayak have been giggling more than paddling, a seemingly novice duo who haven’t quite worked out the rhythm of their stroke. Round and round they go, getting nowhere fast.
Between giggles, they decide it’s time for military precision. “Left, right, left, right,” one calls, and for a glorious moment, they’re in unison. Then, oops. Both are in the water, before popping back to the surface, still laughing.
Must admit, we had a bit of a giggle, too, but from our vantage point, high and dry on the deck of our bungalow perched over the edge of the lagoon.
We’ve been lounging about on the deck since arriving, enjoying the afternoon breeze as a south-easterly flits from the ocean and over the treetops before wafting across the lake to our door.
The airconditioning works a treat but even on a steamy Queensland day, it’s not needed. With the windows and doors open, it’s as cool as the coastal-chic decor of this Deluxe Overwater Bungalow, a new style of accommodation offered at the sprawling resort. It’s all timber, wicker and muted tones, giving off a relaxed vibe that we’re happy to soak up. There’s a big lounge in front of a massive television, a kitchenette and the bathroom, boasting a deep bath, is stocked with luxe Leif unctions.
The bedroom, which is located on the lagoon side for extra breeze-catching, has another big wall TV and a very comfy king-size bed. A single bed can be supplied on request.
It’s a double-storey building with a nod to the Queenslander style of architecture, although this structure juts over the lagoon on poles.
Above is the grand bungalow offering, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom place for the family, and downstairs, on the other side of our spot, is a matching deluxe bungalow. There are other bungalows dotted about the lake, not grand or deluxe, but with similar views.
It’s a short stroll to the water sports and activities area, with catamarans and kayaks to take out on the lake, and the gymnasium has been revamped to include a pilates studio. It overlooks the water so you can work the core while taking in the view. A day spa is nearby for a massage if you overdo it.
Up from the beach is the swimming pool area, a newly transformed aquatic hub with sun lounges to snooze on under cabanas.
We’re here on a Saturday, which means the seafood buffet is on, so as the sun starts to dip, we make our way past the outdoor bar area where pizzas are doing a roaring trade to Sola Restaurant, finding a seat in the corner overlooking the pool.
After being entertained by watching a man who thinks he’s a dolphin, it’s time to check out the buffet, serving ourselves fresh oysters, marinated mussels and Moreton Bay bugs. There are prawns, spanner crabs and sushi, too, plus a host of hot dishes, including an impressive whole baked reef fish with mango and coriander salad and a slow roasted balsamic leg of lamb.
The next morning, we chill out on the deck with a coffee while regulars do laps of the lake.
A wallaby sits in quiet contemplation on the lawn and a few brush turkeys pick about as we head back to the dining area for a buffet breakfast.
After checking out, we wander around the lake to the beach access area and make our way down the path fringed by gums and casuarinas to Mudjimba Beach.
The wind has picked up and we watch an anchored ketch bob about in the lee of Old Woman Island before striking off towards Maroochydore, grateful again for the wonders of a sea breeze.