I’ve long dreamed of buying an old motel and bringing back to life myself so was so excited to see what the talented team at Hillcrest had done. I believe the transformation has just begun, we are looking forward to seeing future phases. Here are tips from our experience:
✔️We had 4 kids and 2 adults in adjoining family room, this would be ideal for people with young kids but in future I would put the older kids in their own room so they had their own bathroom.
✔️they have lovely Kevin Murphy amenities but BYO shower cap
✔️ there is a small kitchenette with kettle and microwave, we loved the complementary morning crossiants and the MAYDE tea and filtered coffee
✔️ the new tennis court is so much fun , make sure you allow some time for a game
✔️ the kids loved roasting marshmallows over the fire pit, it was so nice sitting around it looking out to the view across Merimbula
✔️ we had a 4WD with surfboards and ski gear on the roof racks so couldn’t fit in the undercover Carpark past the second bay which has a low clearance, there is plenty of parking next to the reception
✔️ expect patchy phone and internet even with Telstra
✔️ Very comfortable beds & large new TV’s

I recommend Hillcrest as perfect accommodation for a South Coast road trip itinerary.

Delightful Motel nestled on top of the hill overlooking the superb grounds and coast. The renovated room was beautifully appointed and the sunny balcony boasted magnificent views, We ate our delivered to our door warm croissant with butter and jam for breakfast in the sun. We were supplied lovely teas, plates, mugs and milk.
The bed was extremely comfy and the linen and pillows of high quality
We were greeted by the friendly staff who were helpful in dinner ideas and orienting us to the area.
Great quality smart TV and internet speed great.
Look forward to another visit.!

We had a very comfy stay in a refurbished room that overlooks the beautiful Merimbula coast. I’ll have to come back to enjoy it again from the swimming pool and tennis court, in the newly landscaped garden. The friendly owners are making this into a very updated motel. Lovely touches like the brewed tea and local filtered coffee in the rooms.