Manly Pacific NSW: How Aussie hotel rivals some of Italy's best
As the winter chill sets in across the east coast, and Aussies set off for their European summer in droves — keeping up with the social splurge of snaps from the Almalfi Coast, Lake Como or the high streets of Milan becomes almost too much to bare.
For those sticking south for the winter like me, never fear — because I've come across a little slice of almost Positano that will warm you from the inside out. And while the water temp may be well below the Med at this time of year — the views, food, room and overall atmosphere will put this spot at the top of your winter weekend list.
Stay
The Manly Pacific – M Gallery sits midway along the ever-popular Manly Beach, but despite its central location — the oversized rooms, and recent $30 million refurbishment throughout the hotel makes you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle.
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I checked in to one of the hotel's stunning coastal villas — which spreads across two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchenette, dining space and sizeable loungeroom.
The balcony stretches from one side of the villa to the other, providing uninterrupted views across Manly and over to Shelley Beach (a great place for a paddleboard or snorkel).
The villas are all designed by Coco Republic with a relaxed and sophisticated coastal aesthetic, providing guests with a calm and soothing experience throughout their stay.
To celebrate winter, the hotel transforms the main drag of Manly Beach to be about as close to Italy as you can get their new winter package — Culinary Coastline: A Taste of Italy.
Instead of driving, guests living within a 25km radius of the hotel can be picked up in a
luxury car and chauffeur service arriving direct at the beachfront hotel with a glass of Italian prosecco on hand.
Awarded a recent recognition among the world's 16 most beautiful hotels at the Prix Versailles awards, Manly Pacific offers an elevated seaside experience that starts from the moment guests check in.
After gliding through the stunning entry foyer, a delicious signature charcuterie platter sat ready and waiting in our room — and a complimentary mini bar should you have a pre-dinner hunger pangs.
Take a dip in the hotel's rooftop heated pool (a perfect spot to catch the sunset) or a session in the nearby sauna that can be booked privately.
Eat
Perhaps the highlight of the stay was dinner at the hotels adjoining restaurant, Cibaria.
Everything from the cocktail menu, to the share plates, music and waitstaff will have you feeling like you're nestled in a ristorante on the other side of the world.
The restaurant, which only opened in December last year, is an all-day spot attracting fun, playful crowds in no rush for lunch or dinner.
The 130-seat restaurant has been beautiful decorated inside, to create a bright and colourful atmosphere for guests (with a delicious gelataria attached).
We went with the Culinary Coastlines Menu, and not a single dish disappointed.
Starting with the Pizzetta Bianca and the crab fritters, followed by the scallops (my dish of the night) and the yellowfin tuna crudo — another standout was the crabmeat trattole for a real Italian pasta hit.
Make sure you leave room for dessert, because the house hazelnut tiramisu with mascarpone cream, coffee and savoiardi biscuit is actual heaven on a plate — so you may want to order two.
Do
Being in the thick of Manly means not only the beach and plenty of coastal walks are at your doorstep, but the weekend markets and plenty of shops are just footsteps away too.
Grab a coffee from Bistro Manly downstairs (which is where you'll also enjoy a delightful buffet breakfast) and hit the pavement from the hotel around to Shelley Beach for a chilly (but refreshing) dip.
For a midmorning hit — enjoy a pastry from Rollers Bakehouse just off the corso, and meander through the markets which is filled with local artworks, clothing and homewares.
And if you dare, just like you would in the Med — strip down and take a dip, because the water (albeit chilly this time of year) couldn't get clearer if it tried!
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