Motel Molly captures the essence of a perfect holiday destination on New South Wales’ south coast in Mollymook, striking a chord with those seeking a nostalgic getaway. Accommodation is available in distinctively themed buildings: Capri, Olive, Limoncello, and Rosé. My stay in the Rosé room welcomed me with delightful shades of pink, featuring a stylish Smeg fridge and kettle, complemented by rattan furniture and chic ceramics.
This retro-inspired charm reflects the ongoing trend of revitalising classic Australian motels, originally established for road trippers between the 1950s and 1980s. New establishments like Casita Motel and The Shores on the Gold Coast echo this stylish revival, embracing a fun and feminine aesthetic while ensuring a relaxed atmosphere devoid of high-rise clutter.
Motel Molly stands out with its two-storey layout, affording guests more spacious rooms filled with fresh air compared to the compact offerings of many contemporary hotels. Renovating older buildings fosters sustainability, though it often requires significant effort; for instance, Berry View Hotel underwent extensive renovations to revive its allure. It is now a local landmark with its vibrant façade, attracting visitors keen to capture its essence.
As a surf town, Crescent Head showcases a vibrant scene for beach lovers, from surfers to seafood enthusiasts. The area’s laid-back charm is enhanced by Sea Sea Hotel, a trendy establishment with a unique vibe, merging alpine lodge aesthetics with beachside relaxation. This spot has transformed local dining with its inviting restaurant, exceptional service, and a carefully curated wine list.
While these revamped motels attract a younger audience with a desire for picturesque experiences, some locals express concern over the gentrification of their towns. Nevertheless, the revitalisations are intentionally designed to cater to both nostalgic desires and modern sensibilities without compromising the region’s soul, with Gorrow emphasising that they don’t wish to replicate the trendy allure of Byron Bay.
Distinct offerings abound, like the Timothée Resort, which features nostalgic breakfast hatches reimagined with a contemporary twist. Notably, today’s motels cater to varied budgets while ensuring that culinary experiences move beyond the standard food and aesthetics of yesteryears.
Despite the allure of these retro-themed getaways, there’s an uneasy dependence on nostalgia and marketing trends. The persistent quest for picturesque experiences can sometimes overshadow individual preferences, leading to feelings of exclusion. A growing trend is the need for not just a change of location but a change in time, reflecting an idealised past.
Ultimately, high-quality experiences at spots like Motel Molly blend charm and modernity, allowing guests to soak in the present amid the vibrant sounds and sights of the Australian coast, reminding us that certain features of life remain timeless even as trends evolve.