South House Local Love

July 3, 2026

south house stories

Where everyone is welcome


A hotel can source from anywhere. South House chose not to.


From the wine list to the minibar, from the tradespeople who built the place to the tour operators we send our guests out with, South House runs on a simple rule: if it can come from the Sapphire Coast, it does.


Fireside and poolside, and open to everyone


South House has two bars - one fireside, one poolside  and both are open to the public, not just hotel guests. It's a deliberate choice. We wanted South House to be a place locals come to as much as travellers, because that's the only way a "local" bar means anything.


Both bars run a rotating list built around the region, NSW and Australian producers:


  • Beer our signature brew is from the Southern Highlands NSW
  • North of Eden, for spirits  sourced from the Eden
  • Love Tea, for the rooms and common areas from Melbourne
  • Chocolate locally produced by Waratah Chocolate
  • Local Art by Kym Brookes Coastal Clay wall Art
  • Photography Art by Robbie - No Bad Days





Built by local trades, where possible


The building itself tells the same story. Wherever a local tradesperson, joiner, stonemason or supplier could do the work, South House used them — a decision that shaped everything from the locally formed balastrades to the joinery finishes in every room.


Sending guests further into the community


Local love doesn't stop at the bar. South House actively partners with and recommends independent Sapphire Coast tour operators — dive charters, kayak and paddleboard hire, fishing guides, wildlife and whale-watching tours — rather than running everything in-house. When you ask our team "what should I do today?", the answer is almost always a local business's name and number.  Plus our digital guide has all the best operators listed and all as close as your mobile phone to book.


Come as a guest, or just come for a drink


You don't need to be staying at South House to experience it. Pull up a stool fireside on a cool evening or poolside on a warm one, order something made within a few hours' drive, and you'll understand what we mean by local love , we think the vibe at the pool bar is pretty special and after a full day of adventure, who better share a tale with than a local.


House Bars: Visit the fireside or poolside bar any evening  5-7pm - book a table or walk in.



"Fun Sapphire Coast

Facts"

This is whale country. Between August and November, sightings from the shoreline are simply part of the season.

About South House Hotel


South House is your contemporary hotel in the heart of Merimbula.

20 newly renovated rooms, lush native gardens, pool and outdoor fire plus our House Bars welcoming both guests and locals.

Our event space is available for your next big gathering.

Speak to us today about availability and booking.

www.southhoushotel.com.au

stay@southhousehotel.com.au

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