Living the Penthouse life at Sydney’s Zara Tower

As a born-and-bred local I might be biased, but Sydney is a city that does many things very well. Beautiful beaches. Amazing restaurants. Great events.

But when it comes to accommodation close to the CBD that’s suitable for large groups, the Harbour City can leave you wanting.

Which is why I was super excited to hear about Zara Tower and its spacious luxury suites and apartments. Could this be the best group-stay option in Sydney?

Having opened in 2013, Zara Tower is a relatively new addition to Sydney’s hotel scene and seems to have been flying under the radar. Sorry if it was your fave Sydney gem, because I’m about to sing the praises of your little secret 😉

My friends and I are lucky enough to call room 1502 – a three-bedroom penthouse apartment – home for the night. It’s safe to say my normal Sydney routine doesn’t involve living the penthouse life, so I’m all for acting out this fantasy, even if it’s just for the weekend!

Friends that penthouse together, stay together

We enthusiastically inspect (read: run laps from room-to-room in) our generous living quarters, and are suitably impressed.

Each bedroom has a king bed, feature artwork, a balcony with colourful sunken chairs, and the option of a pillow menu. So far, so stylish.

The luxe factor goes up a notch when we inspect the black-marble bathrooms – three in total, complete with METIS toiletries. If you’re lucky enough to score the master ensuite, you also get a private spa bath.

The open-plan living and dining area also delivers on the luxury stakes, with a generous and comfortable leather lounge, an entertainment unit with Foxtel and Apple TV (plus free Wi-Fi), and a marble-topped dining table.

You’d be forgiven for missing all of this, though, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a balcony with gorgeous urban views and a damn fine Sydney sunset.

The only thing that tears us away is the thought of food! Our attention promptly turns to the kitchen, where we’ve all brought supplies for the evening.

Our love of all things wine and gourmet ensures that no-one leaves one of our catch-ups feeling hungry or parched. Add the excitement of a penthouse stay and we’ve probably catered for a week rather than a night!

Cheese goals

Good thing the fully equipped kitchen is up for the challenge. Complete with Miele appliances, a large fridge, Nespresso coffee machine, and a dishwasher (ain’t nobody got time for washing up on a staycation), it ticks all the boxes. Most importantly, it has both champagne and wine glasses 😉 You’d be surprised how many apartments don’t include both! The only things missing that would otherwise have given it a 10/10 are serving plates and bowls more fitting such an awesome entertaining space.

Of course, if cooking up a storm isn’t your idea of a fun night, you’re in the right place. Zara Tower is on the fringe of the CBD, bordering Surry Hills, and a quick stroll from Central Station. Nel, Nomad, Berta, Longrain, and The Wild Rover are just a handful of eat-and-drink options only a couple of minutes’ walk away.

We opt to do our foodie neighbourhood exploring for breakfast the next day, and don’t stroll far before we stumble across Single O. It couldn’t be more Surry Hills – backstreet location, cozy tables, super laidback staff, hipster menu – and it hits the spot perfectly.

We’re having it all: smashed avocado toast, nourish bowls, single-origin coffee, and a Sydney penthouse apartment… for the weekend anyway 😉

The secret is out. Zara Tower gets my vote for the best group-stay in Sydney. Grab your squad and live the penthouse life for yourself.

Book your next stay at Zara Tower