Leichhardt Serene Retreat – Views丨Parking丨Ease

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first pulled up to this place on Flood Street, I wasn’t expecting much. The name “Leichhardt Serene Retreat” sounds a bit try-hard, doesn’t it? But you know what, they actually deliver on that promise. This four-star spot sits right in the heart of Leichhardt, and if you know anything about this area, you’ll understand why that’s pretty special.

The thing about staying here is that you’re genuinely in one of Sydney’s most authentic neighborhoods. I mean, forget the touristy harbor views – from some of the rooms, you can actually see across to the city skyline, but more importantly, you’re walking distance to Norton Street’s Italian strip. We’re talking proper espresso at Bar Italia (literally a three-minute walk), fresh pasta at restaurants that have been family-run for decades, and if you’re lucky enough to be there on a Saturday, the markets are right around the corner. The parking situation – which honestly can be a nightmare in inner Sydney – is actually sorted here, which saved me about $40 a day compared to what I’d pay in the CBD.

What struck me most was how quiet it gets at night, despite being so close to everything. The rooms have this sort of understated elegance – nothing flashy, but the beds are genuinely comfortable and the air conditioning works properly (you’d be surprised how often that’s not the case). The staff seem to actually know the area too, which is refreshing. When I asked about getting to Rozelle Markets on Sunday morning, the guy at reception gave me this whole spiel about avoiding the main roads and cutting through the back streets – local knowledge you just don’t get at the chain hotels. The 8.3 rating makes sense when you experience it; it’s not trying to be the Shangri-La, but it does what it promises really well. There’s something to be said for a place that understands its neighborhood and leans into it rather than trying to be something it’s not. Plus, if you’re the type who actually wants to experience Sydney beyond the Opera House and Bondi Beach, this is your base camp for exploring the inner west properly.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $300. Two-Bedroom Superior Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3

Reviews

• Superb – Kelly from New Zealand – 9 December 2024 (9/10)

  met us at the appartment
  
  What could be improved: need block out curtins and TV reeption was poor

• It's a wonderful stay for my family of 3 for the past 7 days, the host is very attentive via booking platform, i do – Chia from Malaysia – 23 June 2025 (10/10)

  The location is strategic, within 10mins walking I'm able to reach to the light rail station, and Laichhardt marketplace is also reachable by walking distance.
  The house is tidy and bright, it also provides basic cooking utensils for the guests. Besides, parking space is available as well.
  
  What could be improved: Cleanliness can be improved as there is some dirt in the toilet, nevertheless, overall is clean and tidy.

• Pleasant – Colin from Australia – 22 December 2024 (6/10)

  We were attending our daughters 50th Birthday celebrations, this accommodation was 100 metres from her home. Therefore the location was excellent.
  
  What could be improved: The cost of the accommodration in our opinion was not reflected in the amenities provided. The TV quality and reception made it almost impossible to view.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities