Hotel Bargo

12 March 2025 / Story by Phil Betts, Photos by Phil Betts

The sun was shining, the skies were clear, and the excitement was electric as 21 MX-5 club members gathered at Hungry Jacks Haywards Bay. Fourteen roadsters lined up, tops down, engines humming in anticipation of the 103km, 1-hour 45-minute journey ahead.

With a spirited start, the convoy made its way towards Macquarie Pass, where the twisting mountain roads provided the perfect playground for our nimble machines. The crisp morning air rushed past as we climbed higher, the smell of forest filling our cabins.

We soon reached Tourist Road; a beautiful tree-lined stretch bathed in dappled sunlight. Everything was smooth—until two cars briefly went astray at an unexpected turn. A fast response from our tail-end Charlie (Paul Byers) and a quick regroup over the radios, a bit of laughter, and they were back in formation.

The climb continued along Range Road, where long, open bends invited a gentle push of the throttle. Passing through the outskirts of Bowral, then on through the little town of Hill Top, before cruising onto the flowing open roads toward Thirlmere and Tahmoor.

At last, Hotel Bargo came into view. The group parked their MX-5’s and stepped inside, greeted by warm and friendly staff. Over a well-earned lunch, we enjoyed delicious, well-priced meals, beautifully presented and full of flavour. As laughter and stories filled the air, one thing was certain—a great drive, great company, and great food made for another unforgettable MX-5 adventure.