The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney

We spent four nights here in February. The location close to Circular Quay and The Rocks is great (though note that this part of Sydney is considerably hillier than we'd realised) and is only a few minutes walk from whatever you need, including the excellent boat services from the quay. Our room - actually a suite - was a refurbished premium harbour view example and was one of the very best hotel spaces we've stayed in. A spacious bedroom with balcony, then a large and very comfortable open plan lounge and fully equipped kitchen with a second balcony, topped off with a little utility room with a washing machine and dryer. After several weeks on the road, this last was a complete godsend. We were able to do light self-catering very comfortably (there are only so many restaurants a person can eat in!). Best of all, the views across the quay, encompassing the bridge, opera house and the bay right out towards the sea, were beyond description. The room was far from cheap, but the combination of location, space and iconic views meant it was worth it as far as we were concerned. The hotel also has a very good pool area at a high level, which also has breathtaking views across the harbour. There was some initial confusion with our booking around breakfast (my fault as it turned out), so we didn't go beyond a cup of coffee, but what we did see of the food offering seemed very limited in a quite restricted space, so we felt we'd got the best end of the deal by not paying for B&B. I don't think it is really geared up for that many guests taking breakfast - honestly, it was easier to get a box of cereal in or nip out for a coffee and some toast and vegemite at any one of the many local cafes catering to the CBD and commuters. I will note the high price again, so it isn't for everyone, but we were happy with the value proposition considering the extra facilities over and above a generic hotel room - and that jaw-dropping view.

We had the 3-bedroom penthouse with an amazing view of the harbor. Apartment was clean but definitely aging and smelled "old". Large space and laundry room was a good size. Location is fantastic and it's easy to walk everywhere. Staff was very friendly. No complaints and would likely stay here again if in Sydney.

Very well placed to see everything in Sydney. Staff were lovely and helpful. The room had everything. As we were in Australia for a month we liked the washing machine and dryer. The room we were allocated had amazing views across the harbour and was clean but very dated.