Move over Byron Bay; it’s time to head south. Get ready to dive into a weekend of sun-soaked bliss, where golden sands meet culinary delights in the laidback refuge of Mollymook. We’ve teamed up with Bannisters to curate this guide to the area, ensuring you make the most of every moment in this gem along the South Coast.

If you’re stuck for the perfect gift this holiday season, purchase a voucher from Bannisters to gift to a loved one who deserves a break. These vouchers can be redeemed at any Bannisters venue at the chosen location, including restaurants, spas and poolside bars. They’re the ideal gift for Christmas, special occasions or simply as a treat for a loved one (or yourself). 

Let’s dive in and plot out your luxury weekend away in Mollymook.

After a drive down from the city, it’s time to check into your comfortable home away from home at Bannisters Mollymook, which is actually made up of two hotels on the headland in Mollymook. Perched on the edge of the ocean is Bannisters by the Sea, and a mere 800 metres away is Bannisters Pavilion. Bannisters is all about coastal escapism, which is reflected in the look and feel of the retro terrace suites, glamorous penthouses and the beach house atop the headland with what could be the largest jacuzzi in Australia.  

After checking in and exploring your room of choice, head to Bannisters Pool Bar to take a dip in the pool. Lounge in the striped deck chairs with a cocktail in hand as you enjoy the endless views of the Pacific Ocean. The Bannisters vouchers are redeemable here, as well as at Rooftop Bar and Grill. Set among the tree tops, the eatery has indoor and outdoor seating available, and a menu crammed with Modern Australian classics to suit every palate, including, of course, fresh seafood and seasonal produce. Tuck into house favourites like the king prawn linguine and pair it with a crisp riesling, chilled craft beer or one of the house cocktails. It’s not a bad way to spend a Friday evening.

You won’t need to venture too far, as breakfast is included in your stay at Bannisters. Afterwards, it’s time to lace up your walking shoes, pack your swimsuit, grab a coffee from the Bannister Pavilion Coffee Cart and get ready for a day of exploration.

A ten-minute drive from the hotel brings you to Ulladulla, the biggest town in the area and home to up to 270 million-year-old fossils. You can journey through ancient marine life and geological marvels over the horizontal rock platforms on a guided tour by local volunteers to learn about the area’s rich geological heritage.

Afterwards, walk out to Warden Head Lighthouse and check out the view from Rennie’s Beach lookout. It’s also an ideal stop to catch a wave or two. If you’re set on getting as much beach time as possible on the coastal getaway, head ten minutes down the road to Dolphin Point to check out the epic panoramic views of the ocean while you chill at the beach.

If, instead, you’re keen to stretch your legs even further, there’s a short loop trail close to the town, the Ulladulla Wildflower Reserve Loop, a perfect spot for a bit of shaded wandering. Or the Coomee Nulunga Cultural Trail track weaves its way through windswept heathland like the curves of a snake — local Aboriginal Dreamtime stories speak of the place, and you can even get a tour from a local Indigenous person.

Now, your stomach is undoubtedly rumbling, so head up to Milk Haus, a little outside Milton, located in a converted cheese factory from the 19th century. The eatery focuses on seasonal, local and sustainable dishes that celebrate the area. We’re keen on the summery pistachio and cardamom waffles with mixed seasonal berries, rose water mascarpone and citrus-infused maple syrup, and the madame egg dish with double smoked ham, truss tomato, wilted garlic greens, melted gruyere on Kraken sourdough, a poached egg and topped with herb oil. Before you leave, check out the kitchen garden out back, where the restaurant’s produce is grown.

After lunch, you could head inland to take on the Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track — a five-kilometre track that provides hikers with stunning views of the surrounding bush — or you could head back to Mollymook and relax at Narrawallee Beach. This local favourite caters to surfers and swimmers alike.

After your afternoon of adventuring, head back to the hotel for dinner at the renowned Rick Stein restaurant, another suitable venue to redeem your Bannisters vouchers. This world-class restaurant celebrates fresh local seafood and seasonal ingredients to produce memorable dishes. Start your meal with tiger prawn on ice, freshly shucked oysters or grilled scallops. Sample mixed fish sashimi or fish and shellfish soup before moving on to the mains. You can choose between steamed snapper filler, chargrilled tuna steak or lobster thermidor — or keep it simple with a classic battered fish and chips served with a side of mushy peas and tartare sauce. Sommeliers are on hand to recommend the perfect wine pairing for your meal. 

You could either stay put for a nightcap, head back to Pool Bar or take a jaunt down to the local wine bar, The Social, to toast to an epic day in coastal paradise.

Last day in Mollymook, so you best make the most of it. Ease into your final day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading out into nature again. Just around the corner, you can take the Bannisters Point Walking Track, a nice short stroll around the headland. Afterwards, continue to Mollymook Beach for a walk, swim, or surfing lesson at Pam Burridge Surf School. Check out the Mollymook Bogey Hole at the southern end of the beach before you head away; it’s a nice spot for snorkelling or relaxing in the shallow waters surrounded by a ring of ochre rocks.

After a packed weekend, return to the hotel to treat yourself to some luxurious spa treatments at Spa by the Sea. Perhaps you will unwind with a massage, refresh yourself with a body polish or signature facial, or let it all out with a sauna or steam. There are packages to choose from, all redeemable with the Bannisters vouchers.

For one last taste of the region, head to The Milton Hotel for a big feed before you head back to real life. The Milton Hotel is home to the local brewery Dangerous Ales. Sample its hazy pale ales, sour IPAs or lagers as you tuck into moreish share plates packed with flavours like the woodfired prawns with curry butter, barbecue scotch pork with fermented honey and cashews or a classic charcuterie board. Maybe even buy a case of Dangerous Ale beers to share with your mates back home.

Before hitting the road, savour the last moments with a coffee from one of the many independent coffee shops in the area, a perfect ending to a weekend filled with coastal delights.

Purchase your gift voucher to Bannisters Mollymook on the website. Redeemable at all venues for the chosen location. The perfect gift for Christmas, special occasions or simply as a treat.