I’m lying on a sand-coloured sunlounge overlooking lush tropical vegetation, the afternoon sun soft and warm on my skin. I can’t hear any cars, just the gentle rustle of trees in the breeze and local kookaburras gasbagging. I’m facing two dilemmas. First, I need to somehow muster the energy to get dressed for dinner at The Rooftop Bar & Grill, though a Spritz and prawn linguini does sound good. The second? I’ve got to figure out how I can move to Mollymook. The good news is there’s Bannisters Pavilion, where I’m staying, and, of course, its local sibling Bannisters by the Sea – for now.
Why stay at Bannisters Pavilion?
Well, firstly, the banging location. Just 500 metres from Mollymook Beach – one of the South Coast’s most beautiful stretches of sand – Bannisters Pavilion is an ideal base for when you want to go on holiday and let the car keys gather dust on the kitchen bench. The hotel is fresh and contemporary, featuring light-filled rooms, a rooftop pool for daily dips, an upbeat restaurant and a bar. As well as pristine beaches, Bannisters Pavilion is close to a golf course and cafés – so you’ve got everything you need for a laid-back escape at your fingertips. Plus, Bannisters Pavilion is a more affordable and family-friendly option than its famous sibling, Bannisters by the Sea – but you still get the signature style and quality hospitality.
What are the rooms like at Bannisters Pavilion?
There are 35 rooms and suites at Bannisters Pavilion, decked out in beach-shack chic design. Each room has its own private balcony with either forest, garden or street views, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in plenty of natural light. The classic rooms are ideal for couples’ weekends, and the open-plan penthouses are spacious for family and friends’ getaways. Have you got a furry friend? Bannisters Pavilion also has a couple of pet-friendly rooms available, so no one misses out on the fun. And there’s free on-site parking.
Where can you eat at Bannisters Pavilion?
On the top of Bannisters Pavilion is where you’ll find the Rooftop Bar & Grill serving up fun and fruity cocktails, fresh seafood and modern Aussie dishes right by the pool. Kick off with a Skinny Pash (vanilla vodka, Aperol, pineapple, lime, passion fruit and agave) and a Lotus Martini (Four Pillars yuzu gin, peach liqueur, passion fruit, lemon and apple). Food-wise, there’s antipasti, fresh seafood, pasta, steak and schnitzels. You also need to book dinner at Rick Stein at Bannisters – I’d heard big things and it lived up to my expectations – and then some. Think perfect oysters, coral-toned sashimi and a delicious Sri Lankan-style fish curry.
Is there a gym or pool at Bannisters Pavilion?
There’s a pool on the rooftop at Bannisters Pavilion complete with sunlounges, so you can spend all afternoon going for dips in the sunshine and getting lost in your book. My idea of heaven. There’s no gym at the hotel, but when you’re surrounded by lush bush and the sea with stunning walking and running tracks right at your doorstep, who needs a treadmill?
What’s the area like around Bannisters Pavilion?
Mollymook is a South Coast gem with rolling waves, bushy streets and a relaxed vibe. The hotel is just minutes’ walk to Mollymook Beach and a short stroll or drive from Narrawallee Beach – my favourite place to go for a surf. Be sure to head to nearby Milton, home to great places to eat and drink – The Milton Hotel, Bar Yuki and Small Town Provisions are my picks. Garden-to-plate eatery Milk Haus, a nine-minute drive from Bannisters, should also be on your hit list. And you’re within reach of bushwalks, ocean swims and nature breaks – so you can enjoy a bit of everything.
What can you do while you stay at Bannisters Pavilion?
Head upstairs to the rooftop pool, order something cold and relax on the lounge chairs. Grab your togs and stroll to Mollymook Beach for a surf, swim or walk along the sand. If you’re a golf lover, hit up Mollymook Golf Club and enjoy lunch with a side of stunning ocean views. Explore Milton’s cafés, galleries and boutique stores. Dine at Rick Stein’s. Treat yourself to an afternoon of bliss at the spa at nearby sibling property Bannisters by the Sea. Work out how you can move to Mollymook.
Why should you book a stay at Bannisters Pavilion?
If Bannisters by the Sea is booked or a little out of your price range, consider its more affordable little sister, Bannisters Pavilion. The vibe here is younger and more family friendly. If you’re looking for a fresh, modern stay close to the sea in Mollymook, this is the place.
Address: 87 Tallwood Ave, Mollymook Beach NSW 2539
Price per night: From $266
Closest transport link: The drive from Sydney takes just over three hours, and public transport options are very limited – you’ll need a car to get here.
Book now: You can book over here.
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