Helensburgh Hotel

The bar staff and chef were friendly, and the salad and crunchy chips were delicious. The scotch fillet, though, was disappointing for both of us: mine was very gristly, flavourless and undercooked. I think the pepper sauce may have come from a packet, though I could be wrong. I suggested lunch at the Bistro to my friends, as I hadn’t been up this way for about three years. We’re on holiday for five nights and have eaten out twice, here and in Kiama. Unfortunately, we didn’t enjoy either meal.

Sleep was impossible here. The property sits directly over a bar, with loud music and shouting carrying on late into the night. The constant noise and lack of basic comfort made the stay miserable, so I’d strongly advise against booking, especially a room near the bathroom. The bathroom and shower are shared, which is inconvenient enough, and some rooms share a wall with the bathroom. Whenever someone showers, it sounds as though they’re right inside your room. There’s no peace or privacy.

The kids did get free apple juice, which was great. But the food was so bad I can only compare it unfavourably to prison food. It was basically gruel. For God's sake, at least try.

The people were great, the staff were really lovely, and the food was great too. It’s absolutely amazing there, definitely recommend going.