The Bryn at Tilba

We stumbled across this place almost by chance, and what a find. It’s a beautifully appointed colonial-style period home, tucked away somewhere wonderfully peaceful.

We went for a weekend break after a stressful few weeks, and to celebrate both our birthdays. The Bryn more than lived up to its reputation as Tilba’s best hotel. After arriving late Friday, we relaxed in the spa bath with champagne, then woke to wide views over the Tilba valley and coastline. Sharon made us a cooked breakfast to order and shared some friendly ideas for places to visit. The setting is a real mix of quiet and convenience. You can walk to Tilba high street in about five minutes for cream teas and cheese tasting, but the property is away from the busy tourist stretch. Mystery Bay and the lovely, untouched beaches nearby are about a ten-minute drive away. The house is beautiful, immaculately furnished and kept, and the service was incredible. We’re already planning another stay, and even talking about what it would take to move to Tilba for good. Sharon and Peter, you’ve done an amazing job as first-time hoteliers. Thanks for such a great stay. Rachel and Daniel

We spent more time cooking than we expected, and it was lovely to have an oven and watch the sunset through the kitchen window. The cottage was clean and cute, with thoughtful touches that gave it a granny’s house feel: Royal Doulton crockery, good Scanpan cookware, and a really comfy duvet and sofa. Outside, the green mountain setting felt a bit like Yorkshire, though Narooma and Bermagui beaches are still close. At night and in the morning, all we could hear was birdsong, and on a clear night my partner spotted the Milky Way. We walked around the property on outings to golf, the beach and Tilba village, and the team were friendly and had lots of useful tips. Chilli the horse often peered over from his field while we sat on the verandah or in the kitchen. We loved it enough to book again for next year.

We’ve been coming to the area for over 35 years and have stayed at The Bryn around half a dozen times since 2005, both before and after having children. Friends have come too. Somehow the stays keep getting more charming and rewarding. The location is fantastic, and the current owners have made our favourite spot, The Cottage, even more accommodating for us as a family. We love the whole Tilba-Time experience. There aren’t many B and Bs that compare, and it’s hard to put into words how the setting, the obvious quality of the B and B and the time we enjoy there all come together. Thanks, Sharon and Pete. We’ll be back as soon as we can.