Escape to Paradise: Narooma's Top Of The Town Motel Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the world of Escape to Paradise: Narooma's Top Of The Town Motel! This ain't your grandma's stuffy hotel review, honey. We're going raw, we're going real, and we're going to see if this place actually lives up to its name.
First Impressions: The Narooma Vibe (And My Own, Slightly Jittery One)
Narooma. Just the name whispers of salty air and sun-kissed skin. And let me tell you, after the drive, the thought of escaping somewhere – especially somewhere that promised paradise – was pure gold. Finding the Top Of The Town Motel was easy peasy (thanks, GPS!). And the first thing I noticed? It’s right there. Top of the town, indeed! Which, honestly, is a huge win if you're like me and slightly directionally challenged.
Accessibility: Can Everyone Escape to Paradise? (Mostly, Yes!)
This is crucial, and I gotta say, they've done a pretty decent job. Wheelchair accessible? Yep, they've got it covered. Facilities for disabled guests are listed, which is a great start. I didn't personally test everything, but it seems like they're trying to make it a welcoming space for everyone. The elevator is a definite plus.
The COVID-19 Circus: Cleanliness and Safety - Are We Safe?
Okay, let's get real. We're all a little germ-paranoid these days. So, how does the Top Of The Town handle the pandemic? They're taking it seriously, which is a huge relief. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Staff trained in safety protocol? Fingers crossed! They also have hand sanitizer everywhere, and rooms sanitized between stays. You can even opt-out of room sanitization if you're a bit of a germaphobe (like me!). Individually-wrapped food options are available, and they offer a cashless payment service, which is always a bonus. They're even offering professional-grade sanitizing services. Honestly, they seem to be throwing everything at it to keep things safe. It's not perfect, and I'm not going to pretend it is (I'm not a scientist!), but they're trying, and that's what matters.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Escape
Alright, food! My favorite subject. This is where it got a little…mixed. They've got restaurants and a poolside bar, which is promising. Breakfast [buffet] is on offer, which is a classic! I'm a sucker for a good buffet, even if it's a bit hit-or-miss. I didn't see any Asian cuisine or vegetarian restaurant options during my stay. Coffee/tea in restaurant? Yep! Room service [24-hour]? Score! Perfect for those late-night snack attacks or when you just don't want to leave your comfy bed. They also have a snack bar, which is always a good thing. I did find a decent salad in restaurant, but the soup in restaurant? Meh. It was edible, but nothing to write home about. The bottle of water was a lifesaver after a long day of exploring. My biggest gripe? The coffee! It wasn't the worst I've ever had, but it wasn't the best either. A decent coffee is crucial to my mornings. This is where a well-placed coffee shop could really make a difference.
Things to Do and Ways to Relax: Paradise Found? (Almost!)
Okay, this is where things get exciting. They've got a swimming pool [outdoor] – a must-have in Narooma! And a pool with a view? Even better! I spent a good chunk of my time lounging by the pool, sipping a cocktail, and just…breathing. Pure bliss.
Here's where the "escape" part really kicked in. The view from the pool area alone was worth the price of admission. The ocean stretched out before me, sparkling under the sun. I could have stayed there forever. Okay, maybe not forever, but definitely for a good few hours.
Things to do are plentiful in Narooma. And with a terrace, you can even relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
The Spa/Sauna/Steamroom Situation
No Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom or Body scrub, Body wrap, or Foot bath. This was a bit of a bummer. I was really hoping for a full-on pampering session. But hey, you can't have everything, right?
Rooms: The Nesting Ground
My room? Pretty standard, but clean and comfortable. The air conditioning was a godsend, especially after a day in the sun. The blackout curtains were a lifesaver for sleeping in (because, vacation!). The free Wi-Fi worked like a charm. Free bottled water was a nice touch. The extra long bed was a win! The desk was functional, and the coffee/tea maker was appreciated (even if the coffee itself wasn't spectacular). The shower was good, and the slippers were a nice touch! I do love slippers!
The Little Things: Services and Conveniences
Okay, so beyond the basics, what else does the Top Of The Town offer? Daily housekeeping? Check. Laundry service and dry cleaning? Check and check! Luggage storage? Yup. Concierge? Present and helpful. Cash withdrawal? Yep. They have a convenience store which is handy for last-minute essentials. Air conditioning in public area? Naturally. Elevator? Yes, again. They also have facilities for disabled guests. They even have a gift/souvenir shop! And, if you're feeling romantic, a proposal spot.
For the Kids: Family Fun?
They are family/child friendly, but I didn't see any specific kids facilities or babysitting service.
Getting Around: Escape from the Carpark!
Parking is free! A huge win. They've got car park [on-site], which is convenient. They also offer airport transfer and taxi service if you need it.
The Quirks and the Imperfections (Because Life Isn't Perfect, Folks!)
Okay, here's the real tea. This place isn't flawless. The decor is a little…dated. But hey, it's clean, it's comfortable, and it gets the job done. And honestly, the slightly old-school vibe adds to the charm.
The Staff: The Human Element
The staff were lovely. Friendly, helpful, and genuinely seemed to care. That makes a huge difference.
The Verdict: Is it Paradise? Not Quite, But It's Damn Good!
So, is Escape to Paradise: Narooma's Top Of The Town Motel actually paradise? Well, no, not exactly. But it's a damn good escape. It's a comfortable, clean, and convenient base for exploring the stunning beauty of Narooma. The pool is amazing, the staff are great, and the location is spot-on.
My Honest Recommendation (And A Little Bit of a Rant)
Look, if you're looking for a five-star, ultra-luxurious experience, this isn't it. But if you want a relaxed, comfortable, and affordable stay in a fantastic location, book it! Just be prepared for some minor imperfections and focus on the good stuff - the stunning views, the friendly staff, and the chance to unwind and recharge.
Now, for the ultimate sales pitch (because that's what this is all about, right?)
Escape to Paradise: Narooma's Top Of The Town Motel - Your Gateway to Coastal Bliss!
Tired of the everyday grind? Yearning for salty air, sun-drenched days, and breathtaking ocean views? Then it's time to ditch the stress and book your escape to the Top Of The Town Motel in Narooma!
Here's what makes us your perfect getaway:
- Prime Location: Perched atop Narooma, offering stunning panoramic views that will steal your breath away.
- Relaxation Redefined: Take a dip in our sparkling outdoor pool, soak up the sun, and let your worries melt away.
- Comfort & Convenience: Clean, comfortable rooms with all the essentials, plus free Wi-Fi to stay connected (or disconnect, your choice!).
- Safety First: We're committed to your well-being with rigorous cleaning protocols and a focus on your safety.
- Explore & Discover: Narooma is your playground! Explore pristine beaches, go whale watching, or simply soak up the laid-back coastal vibe.
But Wait, There's More!
Book now and receive:
- A complimentary welcome drink to kickstart your relaxation. *
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into my hilariously imperfect, gloriously messy, and totally opinionated travel itinerary for a stay at the Top of the Town Motel in Narooma, Australia. Let's just say, perfection isn't the goal here. Surviving with a decent tan and a few good stories? Now that's the ambition.
Narooma & Me: A Love Story (Probably Involving Fish and Chips)
Day 1: Arrival & Oh-My-God-Is-That-A-View?!
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Top of the Town Motel. Okay, first impressions: the name's a little… optimistic? I mean, it's not literally at the top of the town, is it? But the view… breathes in deeply… okay, maybe it's worth the slight exaggeration. The ocean's a shimmering, sapphire-blue masterpiece. Seriously, I could just sit here and stare for hours. (And I probably will, let's be real.) The room? Clean enough. Bed? Looks comfy enough for a post-travel nap. Already a winner.
- 1:30 PM: Unpack. Or, more accurately, throw my suitcase onto the bed and declare victory. Let's be honest, I'm probably wearing the same travel clothes for the next 24 hours.
- 2:00 PM: Reconnaissance mission: Walk around the motel grounds. Discover a slightly wonky BBQ area. Note to self: avoid grilling anything remotely fancy. Stick to sausages. And maybe bring my own tongs. You never know.
- 3:00 PM: First official Narooma experience: Get. Fish. And. Chips. Preferably from somewhere with a view. I've heard positive things about the Narooma Wharf. This is non-negotiable. Any trip to the coast is a fish and chips pilgrimage, and I will find the best ones, even if it takes me all afternoon.
- 4:00 PM: Fish and Chips… Success! The fish was flaky, the chips were golden, the view was… well, it was still there, being gorgeous. A seagull tried to steal a chip. I shooed it away. Victory! (For now, at least.)
- 5:00 PM: Stroll along the Narooma Boardwalk. Take a million photos. Try to look like a sophisticated traveler instead of a dork in a sun hat. Fail spectacularly.
- 6:00 PM: Back to the motel. Sunset viewing from the balcony. Crack open a bottle of wine (the cheap stuff, naturally). Contemplate life, the universe, and whether I should have ordered extra aioli with my chips. Regret the aioli decision.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Leftovers. Or, if I'm feeling ambitious, a toasted sandwich. Honestly, the thought of going out again feels like too much effort.
Day 2: Beaches, Boats, and Maybe a Shark (Hopefully Not)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up. Curse the early morning light. Make coffee. Admire the view (again). Consider just staying in bed all day.
- 9:00 AM: Drive to Mystery Bay. This is one of those "must-see" places. Apparently, it's stunning. I'm expecting dramatic cliffs and turquoise water. Hopefully, the "mystery" doesn't involve a hidden horde of grumpy seagulls.
- 9:30 AM: Mystery Bay… Wow. Okay, the hype is real. This place is legitimately beautiful. The sand is pristine, the water is clear, and the only grumpy thing I've encountered is my own slightly grumpy mood from getting up early. Spend an hour just wandering around, taking photos, and trying not to get sand in my shoes. Fail again.
- 11:00 AM: Back to Narooma. Consider a boat tour. Maybe. I get seasick easily. But I've heard you can see seals. And I love seals. Weigh the pros and cons (potential vomiting vs. adorable marine mammals) for a good 15 minutes.
- 11:30 AM: Decide to book a boat tour. Commit. What could possibly go wrong? (Famous last words, I know.)
- 1:00 PM: Boat tour… OMG the seals! Okay, the seasickness was manageable (thanks, Dramamine). But the seals! They were sunning themselves on the rocks, barking, playing, and generally being the most adorable creatures on the planet. This alone made the whole trip worthwhile. The ocean was choppy, and I got splashed, but I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.
- 2:30 PM: Post-seal-viewing lunch. Fish and chips again? Maybe. Or a burger. The decision is agonizing.
- 3:30 PM: Explore the town. Browse the shops. Buy a tacky souvenir (because, why not?). Attempt to look cultured and worldly. Succeed in looking like a slightly sunburnt tourist.
- 5:00 PM: Swim at a beach. The water is freezing! I can't stay in for long. But the feeling of jumping and swimming in the ocean is amazing.
- 6:00 PM: Back to the motel. Sit on the balcony, drink wine, and watch the sunset. Wonder if I'll ever get over the sheer beauty of this place. Decide, probably not.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner: Cook dinner. Experiment with the motel's BBQ. Burn a few sausages. Laugh. Eat them anyway.
- 8:00 PM: Relax in bed and watch a movie.
Day 3: Farewell, Narooma (But I'll Be Back, You Know I Will)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up. Sigh. The end is near. Make coffee. Admire the view (one last time).
- 9:00 AM: Pack. Try not to cry.
- 10:00 AM: Check out. Say goodbye to the friendly motel staff. Promise to return. Mean it.
- 10:30 AM: One last walk around the town. Soak it all in. Take some more photos.
- 11:30 AM: Buy some snacks for the road.
- 12:00 PM: Drive away. Look back at the ocean. Feel a pang of sadness.
- 12:30 PM: Start planning the next trip back. Because, let's be honest, Narooma has stolen my heart.
- 1:00 PM: Start dreaming of fish and chips, seals, and sunsets.
The Fine Print (aka, the Imperfections):
- Weather: Subject to change. I'm hoping for sunshine, but I'm prepared for anything. Bring layers. And a rain jacket. And an umbrella. And maybe a sun hat. Just in case.
- Food: Primarily fish and chips, burgers, and whatever I can find in a supermarket. Fine dining is not the goal here. Comfort food is.
- Mood: Likely to fluctuate wildly. Expect moments of pure joy, moments of mild frustration, and plenty of moments of just… existing.
- Seasickness: A constant concern. Dramamine is my friend.
- Photography: I'll take a million photos. Most of them will be blurry. But I'll still cherish them.
- Spontaneity: This itinerary is a suggestion. I'm open to changing plans on a whim. In fact, I'm expecting it.
So there you have it. My messy, opinionated, and utterly imperfect guide to Narooma. Wish me luck. And maybe send me some more aioli. Just in case.
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Alright, spill the beans! What's the deal with this 'Top of the Town Motel' in Narooma? Is it actually paradise?
Okay, okay, settle down, eager beavers! "Paradise"... well, that's a strong word, isn't it? Let's just say the Top of the Town Motel in Narooma is… an *experience*. It's not the Ritz, folks. Don't go expecting fluffy robes and a champagne welcome. I went in with a certain expectation of… well, let's just call it "rustic charm." And boy, did I get it.
The "top of the town" part is pretty accurate though. You're up high. Which means, yes, amazing views. Especially if you snag a room with a balcony. My first thought? "Wow, alright, this is pretty good." My second thought? "Hmm, that balcony railing looks… let's say 'weathered'."
But seriously, Narooma itself is gorgeous. The motel? It's a solid basecamp for exploring. Think clean-ish rooms, functional furniture, and a vibe that screams "family-run, with a touch of 'we've been here a while'." More on that later.
Okay, so what are the rooms *actually* like? Be honest!
Alright, truth time. The rooms… they’re what you'd expect. Basic. Functional. Clean *enough*. I mean, I'm not a germaphobe, but I did give the bathroom a once-over with my own wipes, just in case. (Don't judge me!). The bed? Comfy enough to get a decent night's sleep after a day of hiking and exploring. The aircon? Glorious. Absolutely glorious, especially in the summer heat.
My room had a… let's call it a "vintage" television. And by vintage, I mean it looked like it was older than I am. (Okay, maybe not, but it felt like it!). I did find a working remote, though, which was a small victory. The decor? Let's just say it hasn't been updated since, oh, I don't know, the '80s? But hey, it's clean, and it's got a bed, and that's what really matters, right?
One thing I will say: the water pressure in the shower was FANTASTIC. Like, a proper power wash. Loved it.
What's the view *really* like? That's important!
The view? Okay, *that's* where the Top of the Town truly shines. Seriously, it's breathtaking. I spent a good hour just sitting on my balcony, staring out at the ocean. The water is that stunning turquoise you see in the photos. The sunrises? Forget about it. Worth getting up early for, even if you're not a morning person. I saw dolphins playing in the water one morning! And whales! It was magical.
The only downside? The balconies aren't exactly soundproof. You can hear everything. The seagulls, the wind, the occasional loud conversation from the room next door. But honestly, that just adds to the charm, in a weird way. You feel connected to the place.
Is there a pool? Because, pool.
Yep, there's a pool! A perfectly adequate, slightly-chilly-but-still-refreshing pool. It's not Olympic-sized, mind you. It's more of a "dip-in-and-cool-off" kind of pool. I did see some kids having an absolute blast in it, so that's always a good sign. The deck chairs? Looked a little… sun-faded. But hey, they did the job!
I will say, the pool area could use a bit of a tidy-up. A few stray leaves, a bit of what looked like… well, let's just say it wasn't sunscreen. But overall, it's a bonus. A nice place to relax after a day of exploring. I probably spent more time *thinking* about going in the pool, than actually going in. But it was there. And that's what counts, right?
How's the staff? Are they friendly?
The staff? Ah, the staff. They're… characters! In a good way, mostly. The woman at reception was lovely. A bit frazzled, maybe, but genuinely friendly and helpful. She gave me some great tips on where to eat (more on that later). The cleaning staff were efficient and kept the rooms tidy.
One morning, I went down to reception to ask about a hairdryer (I forgot mine, disaster!). The woman at the desk was on the phone. I waited. And waited. She waved me over, mid-conversation, gave me a quick nod, and went back to her call. It was… efficient. But, you know, it was fine. They were busy, and I got my hairdryer eventually. No big deal.
What's nearby? What can you actually *do* in Narooma?
Oh, Narooma! That's where the magic really happens. The Top of the Town is a great jumping-off point. Everything's within easy reach. The beaches? Stunning. Seriously, some of the best beaches I've ever seen. The water is crystal clear. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just wandering along the sand.
Montague Island is a must-do! I went on a boat tour, and it was incredible. Saw seals, dolphins, and whales! (Yes, I'm still raving about the whales). It's a bit pricey, but totally worth it. There are also plenty of walking trails, if you're into that kind of thing (I am!). The shops and restaurants in the town are a short drive away. And the oysters? Oh, the oysters! You HAVE to try the oysters. Best I've ever tasted. Seriously.
Speaking of food… where should I eat?!
Okay, food! This is important. The woman at reception recommended a place called The Whale Inn. And oh my god. Amazing. Fresh seafood, great atmosphere, and a view to die for. I went back twice. The oysters were, as I said, divine. Definitely get the oysters. And the fish and chips. And… well, just try everything, honestly.
There are other options, of course. A few cafes for breakfast. A pub or two for a casual dinner. But The Whale Inn? That's the winner, in my book. Seriously, go there. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it.
Would you go back to the Top of the Town?
Stay Collective
