Rockpool Motor Inn
Our one-night planned stay in South West Rocks very quickly turned into two nights after we checked in, not just because of the rainy weather (which meant a return visit to Arakoon Gaol and Smoky Cape Lighthouse was off the cards for the first day), but because we just felt so at home at Rockpool Motor Inn. The motel is quite large, plenty of rooms, and set over a few levels, with the upper levels easily accessible by stairs or a wheelchair ramp, and looks down over the pool towards the onsite restaurant (which we definitely recommend! – see below). There are a variety of room styles, including their Deluxe King Spa which has its own balcony, and a disabled access room. We stayed in the Queen Spa Room. Undercover parking is available at the property, and there is plenty of space to park by reception when you check in.
OUR ROOM/INCLUSIONS/PRICING
We stayed in the Queen Spa room, and were extremely comfortable in the very soft and super thick pillowtop bed. The room was spacious, with plenty of room for the table and chairs which made meals very comfortable, as well as luggage space and a decent size work bench which we always use. The bathroom was roomy, and even though it was an open shower above the spa bath, it was a very large bath and we were pleasantly surprised that no water spilled out. Small steps led up to the spa bath so it was easily accessible with no large ‘climb-over’ needed. Plenty of towels and decent toiletries were provided, and enough bench space for your own toiletry bag, makeup, etc.
LOCATION/ATMOSPHERE
The motel is close by town, so we could walk to local cafes, IGA, etc., and it’s only a short drive to nearby touristy spots like the Gaol and Smoky Cape Lighthouse. We found it very quiet at night, no road noise or other disturbances, and a really nice atmosphere at night with the palm trees lit up by the pool.
SERVICE/STAFF
Service and staff in both the motel and restaurant was wonderful, very prompt and happy to answer any questions we had and recommend local places to visit.
SUITABILITY
The motel is suitable for any kind of travellers really, as there are a variety of room types to cover couples, families, business travellers, etc.
FINAL THOUGHTS
We would definitely recommend it and wouldn’t hesitate to stay again on our return trip north after Tassie.
Rocks Restaurant
Given we were staying onsite, we had to try here for dinner. The outlook to the outside pool and seating area was nice, the palm trees were lit up at night, and inside the tables weren’t crowded together, it was warmly lit and very comfortable. The prices are normal restaurant prices, as it is a restaurant. You don’t come here expecting a cheap cafe meal. It’s a great place for larger groups and functions, as there is plenty of room, and the bar is very well equipped with a nice bar seating for pre-dinner drinks.
For starters, we ordered the Garlic Turkish Bread and Pea, Mint & Basil Arancini Cakes. Both were delicious, very fresh, and good portion sizes. The Cakes are a great vegetarian option, and we’d definitely recommend them
For mains we ordered the Zucchini, Haloumi & Mint Fritters, w/Quinoa, Tomato & Mint Salad and the 1824 Char-grilled Scotch Fillet. The fritters dish was huge, and after starters there was just no way we could finish it, so credit for the great portion size. The dish was light and the salad very fresh, the flavour did get quite strong towards the end, and would probably make another great starter dish as a smaller portion. The Fillet was cooked as requested, a great dish at usual restaurant prices.
For dessert we both shared the Sticky Date Pudding with Icecream, and we struggled through this just because of the amount of food we’d already eaten. It was fresh, soft, and definitely seemed homemade.
We really enjoyed our meal here. It was quiet, relaxing, staff were friendly, we weren’t rushed and could just sit back and enjoy the good food.