Charming Chippendale Escape with Rooftop Pool

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about this place – it’s not going to blow your mind, but there’s something genuinely appealing about this little spot tucked away in Chippendale. When I first walked up, I honestly wasn’t expecting much from the exterior (the building’s pretty standard Sydney terrace style), but the moment you step inside, you can tell someone actually cared about making this feel like a real escape rather than just another cookie-cutter hotel.

The rooftop pool is honestly the star here – and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s not huge, but when you’re floating up there with views stretching toward the city skyline, you sort of forget you’re staying at a 3-star place. I spent way too many evenings up there, probably because the pool area catches this perfect golden light around sunset. Fair warning though: it can get a bit crowded on weekends, especially during summer when everyone’s trying to beat the Sydney heat. The surrounding area is actually pretty quiet most of the time – Chippendale’s got that residential vibe going on, though you’ll hear the occasional rumble from Central Station (it’s close enough that you can walk there in about 10 minutes, which is incredibly handy if you’re planning day trips).

What I really appreciated was how the staff seemed to know their neighborhood inside and out. The guy at check-in pointed me toward this little Vietnamese place on Abercrombie Street that I never would’ve found otherwise – honestly some of the best pho I had during my entire Sydney trip. The rooms themselves are clean and comfortable, nothing fancy but everything works properly (you know how hotel air conditioning can be hit or miss). I did notice the walls are a bit thin, so if you’re a light sleeper, maybe pack earplugs. The whole place has this relaxed, almost residential feel that makes it easy to settle in for more than just a night or two. Parking can be tricky on the street, but there’s a decent-sized lot about two blocks away that won’t break the bank. What really sold me on the place was how it sits right in that sweet spot between the artsy Chippendale scene – there’s some great galleries and cafes within walking distance – and easy access to the rest of Sydney. You’re literally a quick bus ride to Newtown or the CBD, but when you come back at night, you’re in this quieter pocket where you can actually hear yourself think. It’s not perfect – the Wi-Fi gets spotty on the upper floors, and don’t expect luxury finishes – but for the price point and that rooftop pool situation, it’s actually a pretty solid choice if you want to experience Sydney without feeling like you’re trapped in a tourist bubble.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $201. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Nice appartment, good location. Communication bad – Pim from Netherlands – 30 April 2024 (6/10)

  Nice and comfy appartment
  
  What could be improved: Communication with the rental service.
  Asked an hour after entering the appartment to extend the stay (on a thursday). They let me know they would ask if its possible.. didn’t hear anything; tried to call 2 times, and half an hour before we had to check out (monday morning) we got a message after (asking many times again).. that it wasn’t possible.

• The apartment was pleasant and the area is great – thank you! – Misirdjieff from Australia – 14 November 2024 (7/10)

  Great area, handy to Central.
  
  What could be improved: Dishwasher does not go on to the rinse cycle automatically.

• Pros and cons. See above – Gregory from Australia – 1 June 2024 (7/10)

  Excellent location near Central Sydney.
  Well appointed apartment with balcony.
  
  What could be improved: Instructions for entry were complicated and buried deep within the email that came via Booking.Com.
  Despite leaving his mobile phone number in case of difficulties, Dom was uncontactable when we needed help and failed to return my voice message.
  We booked this accommodation because it advertised a ‘rooftop pool’ but it was closed for the duration of our stay. We could have been forewarned about that.

• Very good – Jacqueline from United Kingdom – 2 March 2024 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities