Above Wollongong at Pleasant Heights

There’s a real touch of the exotic at this far-from-suburban B&B on the edge of Wollongong – an hour on the highway from Sydney – that takes its name from nearby Mount Pleasant. And pleasant is very much an understatement at Above Wollongong at Pleasant Heights.

Three eclectic, apartment-size suites with their own private entrances and indulgent extras offer the max in seclusion and style. Guests checking into the Pleasant suite have their own Japanese courtyard garden, complete with a waterfall and little wooden bridge spanning a pond filled with koi carp. Inside, it’s all rich Indonesian wood furnishings, plum-coloured walls, polished boards and sofas piled with cushions. Naturally there’s a spa bath in which to feel suitably decadent.

Chic Seascape studio has terrific sea views from its private balcony, a bed flanked by Roman columns,a travertine marble floor and a pleasingly minimalist feel. New Mexico comes to New South Wales in the Santa Fe suite, with its riot of American-Indian and adobe colours, exotic mirrors and huge corner spa bath. And Indonesia is suitably exotic.

Bushland setting

Everything’s been done with great panache, set off to a treat by the bushland setting and sweeping coastal views. Breakfast baskets are laden with tropical fruit, crusty bread, pastries and more.

Above Wollongong at Pleasant Heights is a great base for day tripping: you’re just an hour from Sydney, Jervis Bay, Kangaroo Valley, the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands.

© Room for Romance