Cute 1 bedroom with private courtyard garden

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about this little North Sydney gem? The address says “apartment 6” but honestly, once you’re inside, you completely forget you’re in a multi-unit building. The private courtyard garden – and I mean actually private, not some shared space they’re trying to pass off as yours – creates this incredible sense of seclusion that’s pretty rare to find this close to the city.

The location on Ridge Street is one of those North Sydney spots that locals know but tourists often miss. You’re literally a five-minute walk to the train station, which means you can be in Circular Quay in under ten minutes, but the street itself is surprisingly quiet. I mean, you’ll hear the occasional car, but nothing like the constant hum you’d expect being this well-connected. The bedroom faces away from the street too, so mornings are actually peaceful – well, except for the kookaburras in the courtyard, but honestly, that’s the kind of wake-up call you want in Sydney.

What really makes this place special is how thoughtfully it’s set up. The garden isn’t just some afterthought with a couple of pot plants; there’s proper seating out there, decent lighting for evening wine sessions, and enough space that you could actually have breakfast outside without feeling cramped. The kitchen flows naturally into the living area, and while it’s compact, everything you need is there – including a proper coffee machine, which saved me about $30 a day in café runs. The bathroom’s got one of those rainfall showerheads that actually works (you’d be surprised how often they don’t), and there’s enough storage that you won’t be living out of your suitcase.

Parking was easier than I expected – there’s a spot included, and Ridge Street isn’t one of those nightmare narrow Sydney streets where you’re constantly worried about scraping your mirrors. If you’re coming by train though, honestly just leave the car at home. The walk to North Sydney station is mostly flat, and you’ll pass a couple of solid coffee spots and a small IGA if you need supplies. Blues Point Reserve is about a ten-minute walk if you want harbor views without the Circular Quay crowds, and the Kirribilli markets are close enough for a Saturday morning wander.

The whole experience feels more like staying at a friend’s place than a typical rental – everything’s been chosen with care rather than just ordered in bulk from a hotel supply catalog. Little touches like proper wine glasses, a decent sound system, and blackout curtains that actually block light show someone’s thought about what makes a stay comfortable rather than just functional. Check-in was smooth, with clear instructions and a host who actually responded to messages, which seems basic but isn’t always guaranteed these days.

Look, if you want a rooftop pool and 24-hour room service, this isn’t your spot. But if you’re after a genuine Sydney experience with your own outdoor space, proper local access, and a place that feels like home base rather than just somewhere to crash – this delivers completely. The 10-star rating makes sense when you consider what you’re getting for the price and location.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $223. Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Clean and tidy – Luisa from Australia – 3 May 2025 (10/10)

  Cute little place, clean and close to shops and transport to the city, ill definitely be back here next time, thanks

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities