This is a harbourside area in the eastern suburb of Sydney. It is all very low lying and was the former docklands area. For many years considered a bit seedy. The change in the ambience of the neighbourhood could be attributed to the lock out laws that now restrict late night clubs and any hard drinking culture. The area has relatively recently been renovated to the highest standards and now incorporates fantastic quayside restaurants, apartments and the Ovolo Hotel. Russell Crowe has an apartment here. There are also a collection of modern sculptures along the wharfside which are further enhanced by the large boats moored up here.
We chose to stay in this area as it is a stones throw from Immie’s apartment and the Ovolo Hotel is both quirky and original to look at. This is built in a former Wool Mill and all the original structures have been incorporated into the hotels structure giving it a edgy urban feel. There is a great pool area with a very private outdoor terrace and a small gym. Laundry facilities for travellers and the entire ground floor area is a series of small private reception type areas including some private alcoves where you can nestle in for the evening or afternoon!
The rooms are spacious and include all sorts of great little perks such as the free tote bag and a bagful of delicious treats to eat a little goodie bag when you arrive – who doesn’t love a freebie !!!
We are hoping to return to this hotel at the end of the month when we are back in Sydney and I would recommend it. The only downside was that we tried to eat along the Cowper Wharf and everything was booked up but on the upside this meant that we walked to Potts Point which is literally 10 minutes away and discovered The Butler Potts point which was fantastic.
We had not booked so were dubious about availability but were immediately shown to a couple of spots at the bar. The most comfortable bar stools ever ! This turned out to be a top spot for the evening. We were looked after by our barman Grant who made us endless mouthwatering cocktails with quite some theatrical expertise and expertly guided us on what to order from the menu. We opted for a series of ‘small plates’ from the contemporary menu which were all outstanding. I must highly recommend a visit to this great venue if you are in Sydney. One cocktail in particular was both explosive and entertaining!
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