The South Coast of NSW is scattered with delightful seaside hamlets and towns that have been long frequented as holiday destinations.
Back in the day, many city dwellers had beach or bush shacks that were an integral part of family vacays and weekend escapes. As the years have moved on, most, if not all have been replaced by dwellings more in tone with today’s expectations.
Kiama, long known to the original Indigenous inhabitants of the area, the Tharawal people, was also termed “where the sea makes a noise” because of the famous volcanic blowhole, and is one of the villages I speak of.
From the first European sighting of the blowhole by George Bass in 1797 and the subsequent first white settlers in 1821, Kiama has provided an intimate and appealing escape for many.
The Kiama of today still retains a lot of what made it a special destination all those years ago. In fact, with its combination of nature-based adventure, the construction of quality accommodation choices and the arrival of many top-class dining establishments, the allure of Kiama as a day tripper’s delight or for those wanting a longer sojourn has certainly grown exponentially.
More visitors has not, however, taken anything away from the charm that exists and I for one certainly encourage you to get it onto your list of destinations to discover in NSW when you next feel the wanderlust.
One of the newest of those afore mentioned accommodation choices is one I am more than happy to direct you to. Nova Kiama has only been a part of the Kiama landscape for 18 months and has swiftly gained a reputation of delivering a warm and homely feel with rooms that offer a boutique coastal feel that will have you relaxed during your next escape.
Melding perfectly with the beachside culture that exists in Kiama, Nova’s 32 sun-filled rooms and executive suites have a subtle understated décor but still deliver all you need for a comforting and relaxed break.
Many of the rooms have the addition of well-designed kitchenettes that will certainly come in handy if you have the kids in tow.
Being boutique in style the premises is not over bearing in any way and vaunts an attractive atrium that leads you to the pool deck and heated pool which is among many little nooks and crannies that serve as hideaways for you to take a moment for yourself.
I absolutely love the addition of the ‘Coffee Kombi’ that holds pride of place as part of the chilled reception area. Unique in design and enfolded by some small tables and stools, it is the perfect position to start or finish the day with your coffee fix and maybe a sweet treat as well?
Remember holidays are for spoiling yourself.
While the hotel has its ‘Kombi Café’, it doesn’t have a restaurant on the premises as such. This may have been a negative for me until I was notified by the very attentive and welcoming staff, about the connection Nova has with the ever-present public house on the corner, which is literally a one-minute walk from the reception area.
Grand by name and certainly grand in stature, the hotel has been servicing this delightful slice of NSW coastline since 1891 and she certainly has some tales to tell.
Grand old pubs of this nature are so intriguing for me with their rich history and character oozing from within its sturdy structure. They are also the best places to engage with a local or two, who more than often have a tale to tell, or a secret spot or recommendation that you won’t find elsewhere.
Book two nights, midweek at Nova Kiama and receive a third night absolutely FREE! For more information, visit http://www.thetravellingguy.com.
Scott McRae
Scott McRae is an accomplished actor, entertainer and travel writer. Scott is 'The Travelling Guy'.