Middle Head Officers Quarters

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about the Middle Head Officers Quarters? The fact that it’s literally built into a piece of Sydney’s military history – I mean, you’re staying in actual heritage buildings that once housed naval officers overlooking Sydney Harbour. The location on Governors Road is pretty special because you’re right in the heart of Sydney Harbour National Park, which honestly most tourists never even realize exists.

The thing about this place is that it’s not your typical hotel experience. You’re basically staying in restored 1930s quarters, so expect thick walls, high ceilings, and that slightly musty smell that comes with heritage buildings (in a good way, if that makes sense). The rooms have this authentic military feel without being austere – they’ve done a really nice job keeping the character while adding modern touches. What I love is that each building sits right on the harbour foreshore, so you wake up to water views that would cost you thousands at a city hotel. The walk down to the private beach takes maybe two minutes, and you’ll often have it pretty much to yourself, especially on weekdays.

Getting there is actually part of the charm – you drive through Mosman and then suddenly you’re winding through bushland that feels completely removed from the city. Parking’s included (which is honestly a relief in Sydney), and the whole complex feels like a secret hideaway that locals have been quietly enjoying for years. The staff genuinely seem to know the area well – they’ll point you toward the walking tracks that lead to Middle Head’s gun emplacements, or tell you the best time to spot little penguins coming ashore. Bradley’s Head is just a short walk away if you want to see more harbour views, and you can actually walk all the way to Chowder Bay if you’re feeling energetic. What really sets this place apart is the authentic Sydney harbour experience you get – you’re not just looking at postcards of the Opera House, you’re actually living on the harbour the way it was meant to be experienced. The ferry connections from nearby Taronga Zoo wharf make it surprisingly easy to get into the city, though honestly, once you’re settled in with a glass of wine watching the sunset over the water, you might not want to leave at all.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $278. Two-Bedroom House with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Really great, loved the historical buildings and setting in the National Park. – Danny from Australia – 26 June 2025 (9/10)

  The accommodation was exactly what we wanted and close to the event we travelled to Sydney for. We provided our own b/fasts and found the kitchen to be most satisfactory. The rooms are very comfy and the decking looking out to the water worked well for drinks and nibbles.
  
  What could be improved: The bedrooms could do with free standing wardrobes. The trees between the house and the sea could be trimmed a little to allow the view to be appreciated even more.

• Very good – Siavash from Australia – 23 June 2025 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities