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 As the years have moved on, most, not all have been replaced by dwellings more in tone with today’s expectations.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 trippers 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.
Nova Kiama
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 eighteen 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 cranny’s 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 1-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 form 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.Back to the point Scott! Food of course, one of my favourite life experiences. The Grand Hotels offerings when it comes to cuisine rise way above what you may expect from your standard pub fare. Seriously impressive and that was more than obvious with the mix of locals and visitors tucking into an notable range of elevated pub cuisine.Melt off the bone, local Lamb Shanks. Winter warmer vegetable salads, with its caramelized roasted spiced pumpkin and feta that had me thinking I could go vegetarian. A noteworthy mention has to go to the Seafood Chowder as well. Damn it was delicious!With your accommodation and dining sorted for you, it would be remised of me not to give you a few suggestions in case you want to get out and about and explore the area as well.Firstly, with its precious natural surrounds, you must explore all or at least one section of the Kiama Coast Walk. It has 3 sections and each has its own highlights and charm.Most weekends you will find markets of varying styles down around the harbour and the unique black beach. My pick would be the Seaside Markets that are held every 3rd Sunday of every month as they have a wide and varied range of stalls.If you have a little extra time then you should also venture into the surrounding areas encompassing national parks, mountains, white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, coastal and hinterland villages. These are all on Kiama’s doorstep, and with the brilliant offer we have come up with for you, you have no excuse not to experience this all for yourself.If you have a little extra time then you should also venture into the surrounding areas encompassing national parks, mountains, white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, coastal and hinterland villages. These are all on Kiama’s doorstep, and with the brilliant offer we have come up with for you, you have no excuse not to experience this all for yourself.