Ground-Floor Retreat in Dawes Point

Hotel Description

You know what surprised me about this place? Walking down Lower Fort Street to find 42A, I almost missed it entirely – it’s tucked away in this quiet corner of Dawes Point that most tourists never stumble across. But honestly, that’s exactly what makes this ground-floor retreat so appealing. You’re literally a two-minute walk from Circular Quay (I mean, you can hear the ferries if you listen), but somehow you’ve escaped into this peaceful bubble where the cruise ship crowds can’t find you.

The space itself feels like staying in someone’s well-appointed city apartment rather than a typical hotel room. I loved that I could actually spread out my stuff without playing suitcase Tetris – there’s genuine living space here, not just a bed crammed between walls. The ground floor situation is perfect if you’re hauling luggage or just tired of elevator waits, though you’ll want to keep the curtains drawn if you’re a late sleeper since the morning light streams right in. What really got me was stepping outside in the evening… you can walk to the Opera House in about eight minutes, but the street stays surprisingly quiet after dark. It’s like having access to all of Sydney’s main attractions while actually being able to sleep at night.

The location is honestly the star here – and I don’t mean that in a generic “convenient location” way. You’re positioned in this historic pocket where the old fort used to be (hence the street name), so there’s character in every direction you walk. Head toward the Harbour Bridge and you’ll hit the weekend markets at the Rocks, or wander down to the water and you’ve got ferry connections to literally anywhere worth going. Parking is… well, it’s Sydney CBD, so don’t expect miracles, but there are options nearby if you really need to drive. The building itself has that solid, older feel – thick walls that actually block noise, which is worth its weight in gold when you’re staying in the heart of the city. I’d definitely book this again, especially for longer stays when you want to feel like you’re living in Sydney rather than just passing through.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $655. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed, 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Excellent stay in a beautiful place – Pauline from Australia – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  Wonderful property
  
  What could be improved: Everything

• Very enjoyable! – Kim from Australia – 14 June 2025 (10/10)

  Great location.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was very comfortable.

• Hidden little gem in Sydney’s Dawes point giving access to exploring the city – Christopher from Australia – 18 May 2025 (10/10)

  Property is in an amazing location 2 minute walk and you are at the Sydney harbour bridge with views of the opera house. Easy walking distance to the rocks area and circular quay where all the transport is available. Also has two pubs within 30 seconds walking if you want a drink or food quite literally on your doorstep. The property design itself is really good plenty of space for 3-4 people including a fully kitted kitchen, laundry 2 bathrooms and a peaceful outside seating area. The hosts were very helpful and accomodating offering us advice in the local area and being open to any questions we had.
  
  What could be improved: That we had to leave!

• Delightful home and accomodating host – Danielle from Australia – 16 March 2025 (10/10)

  Location and proximity to the historic rocks district
  
  What could be improved: N/a

• Just be careful – Apichat from Thailand – 8 April 2025 (3/10)

  I'm not impressed with how they treat you. They send you warning messages repeatedly about not partying at the property. As senior members, we don't need constant reminders. They keep saying it's a "friendly reminder," but We feel this place might be operating illegally because they're afraid of our every move.(sorry if I'm wrong) if you have any complaints by the neighbors they will terminated your booking! Becareful of it might be scam.
  
  To be fare apart from this annoying thing.they have a nice space. Good room well equipped. Comfortable.and good location only 10 mins to the rocks.

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