For some time I have tried in vain to find somewhere super stylish for overseas friends and colleagues to stay while in Sydney.  I have written about so many gorgeous places in the Uk and Europe but struggled to find anywhere in Sydney that excites.  That was until I was taken by a friend to see the Harbour Rocks Hotel, tucked away, yet right in the heart of Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct.

This is one of the early buildings in the Rocks …. possibly one of the many bond stores.  The architects and designers have captured the feel with exposed sandstone, bricks, and beams …. the entrance sets the scene. Set back from the street one enters through large black doors …. what awaits is more stylish than could be imagined.  The lighting, the bookshelves and the gorgeous Gervasoni seating in the Lobby give one the feeling that they have arrived somewhere quite special.

Reception is discreet …. in fact it is an extension of the Bar.  I think what works so beautifully is the scale of the spaces.  These spaces and finishes have an inherent warmth and glow … all so very inviting.

Guestrooms are simple and elegant, yet cosy. The finishes and furniture stylish. Yes, it is the attention to detail that you don’t find large hotels.

This restaurant is beautiful !!!!  The lighting is perfect. The clean and simple lines of these chairs and texture of the banquette seating …. a lovely juxtaposition with the sandstone.

I guess it was always going to be easy once you inherit the bones of this magnificent building.  Not so easy to get it this right and they have.

I will certainly be finding an excuse to book in for a weekend.  The location is a gem and I look forward to exploring the Rocks (not just for tourists now), spending time at the Museum of Contemporary Art, walking round to the Opera Bar to enjoy the sunset and a glass of prosecco and trying some of the many fabulous new restaurants and coffee shops in this part of the world.