It’s easy to forget – even as a local – that staying close to the action in Sydney doesn’t need to mean staying in the CBD.
Case in point, the beautiful suburb of McMahons Point on the North Shore, home to the aptly named Harbourside Apartments. And just a short ferry ride away from the city.
Say ‘staycation!’
Checking in on a Friday afternoon, we can immediately see ourselves feeling very at home here – definitely part of the appeal of an apartment stay over a hotel room!
While the building itself is on the older side, don’t be put off. Management have ensured the rooms are well-maintained, well-equipped, and, in many cases, newly renovated.
Our two-bedroom apartment – number 53, located on the 11th floor – has everything you could need for a weekend stay (or longer).
The newly renovated space features a well-stocked kitchen, lounge area, modern bathroom (with a great shower – always a big tick!), and Foxtel.
Impressively, the lounge area and both bedrooms all feature Harbour views. And we’re not talking glimpses you need to be on your tippy-toes to see. Check it out:
There may not be air-conditioning, but opening a window (another hotel rarity) to enjoy that fresh Harbour breeze is better in my book anyway.
Hot tip: If you keep the kitchen window open, you might want to hide the sugar sachets, or you could find yourself with a cheeky visitor or two raiding your supplies.
All those water views will probably have you craving a swim, and you’re in luck with the heated pool.
Make an afternoon or evening of it and take advantage of what must be the barbecue with the best view in Sydney.
Of course, Harbourside Apartments’ other big drawcard is its proximity to McMahons Point ferry wharf. Tap your Opal Card and take advantage of the best way to get around in the Harbour City. We:
- Hop across to Kirribilli to check out the Sunday markets, just a short stroll from Luna Park
- Head to Manly via Circular Quay for lunch and beach time, and…
- Catch a ferry back from Barangaroo after a cheeky 6km run from the Apartments through Kirribilli, via the Harbour Bridge and the Rocks
If you’re thinking what I’m thinking – “This place would be perfect for New Year’s Eve” – plan ahead for NYE 2018. Prices typically start from $500 per night for the studio suites, with a minimum five-night stay, and they usually book out a few months in advance. The studio apartments may not have Harbour views, but I’m told guests take advantage of the pool and BBQ area, and have their own picnics – a way more appealing option than camping out all day like others do for the same view at nearby Blues Point Reserve.
No matter the time of year, though, this Sydney gem is well worth putting on your Sydney accommodation hit list.