Like most Sydneysiders, lastminute lovely Nicole isn’t a stranger to Central Coast getaways but she recently discovered a new spot that combines lazy beachside break and celeb spotting Sydney style, all in one weekend.
There’s one thing I’m sure we all agree on: you can never have too many weekend getaways. If there’s someone who doesn’t love wrapping up the working week and shooting off to somewhere fabulous for a quick getaway, I haven’t met them yet.
So when the opportunity presented itself to check out Mantra Ettalong Beach, I didn’t have to think twice. Only 90 minutes drive north of Sydney, Mr LML and I arrive feeling a million miles away from the big smoke of Sydney.
If you’re expecting the buzz, boutiques and busyness of Central Coast favourite, Terrigal, think again.
Ettalong is a sleepy coastal town that you get the feeling would be a whole lot sleepier without the massive Mantra in town. The resort with its 236 studio rooms and one and two bedroom suites and eye catching white arch design, dwarfs the old school suburban homes, motels and shops that surround it. Not that it’s necessarily a bad thing: it gives you a taste of the old and the new.
Here are five reasons why you should firmly plant Mantra Ettalong Beach on your weekend getaway wish-list.
1. Hello relaxation!
A hotel pool is the ideal way to slip into holiday mode quick-smart on a weekend getaway and the pool at Mantra Ettalong Beach doesn’t disappoint. Borrow towels from reception and head out to the deck with gorgeous views overlooking Broken Bay.
It’s a mixed crowd: younger couples, older couples; families with young kids and families with teenagers; and groups of friends sharing a beverage or two. Relaxation seems to be our common goal.
Once you’ve had a splash, nab yourself an umbrella and deck chair by the pool and feel the serenity (depending on how many kids are in the pool at the time, of course!)
If the pool gets a little busy, you can always book in a dose of pampering at the onsite day spa.
2. Spacious rooms
Sure you might not spend a lot of time in your hotel room on a quick getaway but a spacious room is always a winner.
Our studio, complete with living area, balcony, queen bed, ensuite with spa and kitchenette was more than sufficient for a weekend and wouldn’t be too tight for longer stays with the bonus of an internal laundry. The mostly white decor with splashes of olive green is homely and fresh.
Little extras like local chocolate truffles are a nice touch.
3. Ettalong Beach Club
Located literally next door to the resort is the Ettalong Beach Club. Halftide Brasserie offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner while Rocky Point Cafe has your cafe needs covered with cakes, coffee and lighter meals on offer.
You could stay at the Mantra and easily not leave the complex your entire stay.
Mr LML and I sample breakfast at the Brasserie and arriving relatively early, we enjoy having the gorgeous balcony area nearly to ourselves.
4. Long lazy walks
Soaking up the fresh coastal air is a must on any seaside getaway and the views at Ettalong make this a form of exercise you’ll actually want to do.
5. Palm Beach day trips
Last but not least, the step-back-in-time vibe that is Ettalong is definitely a drawcard but for those looking for a little more action, allow me to let you in on a super hot tip.
Sydney’s Palm Beach –a fave of the celebrity set and the city’s northernmost suburb – is a 30 minute ferry ride away from the shores of Ettalong (definitely beats the long, often traffic filled drive from the CBD).
Check out the view from Barrenjoey Lighthouse, lunch at The Boathouse and re-enact your favourite Home and Away moment on the golden sand (die-hard fans might even want to book a tour).
Where is your favourite destination for a weekend getaway?
Nicole and Mr LML travelled as guests of Mantra Ettalong Beach.