Mercure Resort, Gerringong NSW

In search of a relaxing beach retreat and romantic getaway only a few hours drive from Sydney? Then head south to the elegant Mercure Resort Gerringong, a boutique hotel on the NSW south coast.

Sydneysiders are always looking for a new weekend escape, and until recently the south coast village of Gerringong has been a fairly well-kept secret. But recently, a chic boutique resort helped to put this sleepy surf spot back on the map for many travellers and especially for Sydneysiders in need of a little pampering. Mercure Resort Gerringong is a stylish property with everything you could need for a weekend getaway: luxurious accommodations, a top class restaurant, leisure facilities including two swimming pools, and a full-service day spa featuring an extensive range of treatments.

The Rooms:

It has 52 luxurious rooms which are both spacious and bright, furnished with chocolate leather lounges, plasma TVs and king sized beds made up with crisp white linen. All the rooms have floor to ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony, and the bathrooms feature either long baths or walk-in showers. The style throughout this elegant beach resort is contemporary with a decidedly rustic Mediterranean feel, fusing the richness of chocolate and red leather with dark woods, stone and tiled floors.

Dining:

The resort also features an excellent restaurant and wine lounge, the Bella Char Restaurant & Wine Bar, which doubles up as the social hub of the hotel. The menu features modern Australian cuisine and changes seasonally to showcase the local region's excellent produce. You can also dine alfresco on the terrace, and parents can enjoy a romantic getaway for an evening with child minding (AU$40) with a kiddies' meal being offered. The restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner every day and lunch is offered on Saturday only. 

Other Facilities: 

Unlike many resort spas which are often tucked away in the basement and have little natural light, this French-inspired facility is located on the upper level of the main building of the hotel. The day spa is undeniably a major drawcard at Bellachara, but there are plenty of other reasons to wile away a weekend at this chic resort. In terms of other facilities, the Mercure Resort Gerringong has two beautiful swimming pools, lovely gardens, and a tennis court. It's also a family friendly hotel, with a club to keep the kids amused, and the sleepy village of Gerringong is only a few minutes drive away.

The Verdict: 

The contemporary design makes this one of the more stylish properties on the NSW South Coast, and it's a good option for couples looking for a romantic getaway but it's also one those rare places which is also family friendly.