It’s crazy to think how redundant listing “free WiFI” as a hotel perk is today. But 20 years ago, that would’ve been a huge perk. I imagine in 20 years’ time, “EV charging stations” as a hotel perk will be like that. You’ll just assume the hotel has it. Or, at least, that’s my hope.
Let me explain: If you’re not familiar with EVs (electric vehicles), they run on electric charge — either entirely, so they stop running when the charge runs out, or part-electric, part-petrol, so once the charge is used up, they’ll tap into your petrol.
What I didn’t realise until I test-drove a few EVs, most recently a MG HS Plus EV, is that the charge can usually only last a couple hours’ continual drive before it’s all used up (the Tesla Model S Plaid+ lasts the longest at around 837km). If you’re in a hybrid model, once the electric charge is done, the car starts using petrol. I also didn’t realise it can take hours to electric charge, and that Australia still has few public charging stations.
Still, though, if you can charge your EV and get two hours’ drive away, and then charge it again at your destination to get back home, your transport is entirely free. With petrol prices soaring, that can be incredibly appealing — and a reality, if you’re driving an EV to accommodations with a charging station.
Fortunately, for those wanting to road trip in NSW, there are a growing number of accommodations with EV chargers. Most of these chargers are universal and, if they’re at accommodation, free to use.
You can view a map of MG’s Australian ChargeHub partners here and Tesla’s charging partners here, or if you don’t want to check the map, you can simply read on to find accommodation in NSW that’s not only some of the most luxe, but allows you to charge your EV, too.
Spicers Vineyards Estate, Pokolbin
Spicers Vineyards Estate has two EV chargers. Though they’re maintained by Tesla Destination, they should work on most EVs, though it’s advised you check ahead. The estate grows chardonnay, cabernet, sauvignon and merlot grapes alongside its French countryside-look accommodation and Restaurant Botanica, shaded courtyards and exquisite gardens. It’s also got a pool and spa.
The Carrington Hotel Katoomba, Blue Mountains
The Carrington Hotel Katoomba was the first hotel in Australia to participate in MG’s regional scheme for EV chargers, which includes a plan to install 3,000 chargers across the country over three years. Its three chargers, which should work for EVs of all car brands, are in the garage of the heritage-listed property. The hotel has 65 rooms and suites, with no two the same.
Pullman Sydney Penrith, Penrith
Pullman Sydney Penrith opened in August 2023, and is the Sydney suburb’s first five-star hotel. Sustainability is a core value of the hotel, so it makes sense that it has an EV charging point. The hotel boasts 153 rooms and suites, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna, across its five levels. It was built alongside the adjacent Western Sydney Conference Centre for a combined cost of $110 million.
Bangalay Luxury Villas, Shoalhaven Heads
Bangalay Luxury Villas on the NSW South Coast was designed to blend into its surrounding natural environment. In line with that ethos, it uses solar power, and has four EV charging stations, maintained by Tesla Destination but likely to work on most EVs. The décor in the 16 villas here is minimalist and earthy, as is the case in the on-site restaurant Bangalay Dining, too.
The Lodge Bellingen, Bellingen
The Lodge Bellingen in the Mid-North Coast town has two EV chargers. A converted motel, with a pool and destination restaurant Three Blue Mountains, the property is only a two-minute drive from the town centre and a short drive from Dorrigo National Park. The Lodge has 30 rooms and eight different room types.
Manly Pacific, Manly
Manly Pacific, an MGallery Collection hotel, opened in Sydney earlier this year, after a $30 million, two-year renovation. The reno included four EV charging stations in its car park. The MGallery brand is all about bringing the hotel’s destination to the forefront. In this case, that translates to photos of Manly scenes by local photographer Murry Fraser and use of local suppliers, including 7 Miles Coffee, Manly Spirits, and 4 Pines.
Bannisters Pavilion, Mollymook Beach
Bannisters Pavilion in the NSW South Coast beach town of Mollymook has three EV charging stations, all in undercover parking spots behind reception. The hotel and its sister property Bannisters by the Sea, a two-minute shuttle ride away, have a day spa, infinity pool and Rick Stein seafood restaurant.
Related: Vacation or Staycation, This Sydney Hotel’s Palm Springs Vibe Makes It a Must-Stay
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