This chic hotel is hiding in plain sight in Bateman’s Bay

This chic, design-forward hotel is hiding in plain sight in Bateman’s Bay

Glamorous boutique hotel The Isla has flung open its burnt-orange doors on the South Coast of New South Wales — and it's the latest retro-fabulous motel to be given new life on the east coast.

It has taken more than a mere lick of paint to prepare this beauty to satisfy 21st Century holidaymakers' tastes. Architects THOSE have pulled the project off with aplomb.

The luxury, 18-room motor inn is filled with the kind of joyous, visually pleasing details that are set to lure design-savvy road-trippers into the Eurobodalla region.

While the accommodation gives a friendly nod to its nostalgic, '70s Australiana past, the refurbished rooms and three suites are every bit contemporary.

The work of Australian designers are showcased in each room, with seating by Design by Them, lighting by Coco Flip Design Studio and artworks by Vynka Hallam and Tegan Franks.

From its bespoke oak furnishings and terrazzo features, to its brushed brass accents and plush bedding, The Isla offers an aesthetically mollifying home away from home.

Suites guests can book include Poco — perched above the motel's refurbished pool and lounge — and Vista, named for its ocean views.

In addition to the three suites, a choice of rooms includes the King Courtyard Room, the King Room and The Accessible Room.

Rather than a mini bar selection, guests can wander down to the hotel's original Cantina — being fitted with bespoke vending machines stocked with locally sourced artisanal products.

A former garage space has been cleverly converted into a breezy pool lounge adjoining a communal dining area. It's decked out with eucalypt-green furnishings and umbrellas.

The Isla co-founder Yanna Dascarolis said: "The challenges of the last few years have given us a new-found appreciation for what we have here — our beautiful Australian backyard."

Author: Sonya Gellert Photography: Anson Smart, Instagram @theislahotel Producer: Simone Kealy Swipe up for more travel stories. in partnership with Read more