Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel – Review

With its million-dollar water views, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel has everything you could want for a relaxing seaside holiday. Overlooking the sheltered bay dotted with pleasure craft, the popular hotel combines a traditional pub, chic accommodation and a lively beachfront bar and restaurant that attracts a glamorous crowd. Take in the sights by foot along the headlands and stop for a dip at a choice of nearby beaches. You’ll feel the stresses of everyday life melt away as you get into the laid-back groove of this harbourside gem.

The location

Set on a peninsula in a neighbourhood that retains its original heritage terraces and cottages and natural beauty, the hotel is 12 kilometres from Sydney’s CBD and 23 kilometres from the airport. The most scenic way to reach the hotel is by ferry, a 20-minute ride from Circular Quay.

The rooms 

The hotel has 31 guestrooms and suites, with king-sized beds and large marble bathrooms, in a palette of dark-blue, crisp white, dove-grey and sage-green, with wooden furniture and marine motifs such as framed nautical flags. For the ultimate in comfort and convenience, the Harbour Apartment Suite offers panoramic views across the bay, a well-appointed kitchen and generous living area featuring an inviting sofa and armchairs, and dining suite for in-room feasts.

Food and drink

The hotel has all your eating and drinking needs covered. Start your day with housemade granola, fruit and yoghurt, or a Big Breakfast of eggs, maple glazed bacon, roasted tomato and mushroom. For lunch and dinner, the Beach Club offers an Italian-inspired menu with seafood at its heart, such as classic fish and chips, fresh oysters, tiger prawns, whole grilled barramundi and a deluxe platter including prawns, king crab, Balmain bugs, oysters, lobster and salmon. Quench your thirst with Australian, European or New Zealand wines and cocktails like the OG Mojito of Pampero Blanco rum with lime, mint and soda.

For business travellers

Due to its location and vibe, the hotel doesn't strictly cater to the business crowd, but there are work desks and free wi-fi in the guestrooms.

For wellness travellers

Get active on nearby walking paths with sweeping ocean views. Stroll the South Head Heritage Trail, past Camp Cove beach to the 19th-century lighthouse at its peak. In the opposite direction, climb the steps to The Gap and be invigorated by the sea air and clifftop vantage. If you prefer two wheels, you can hire a bike from reception. With several beaches within walking distance, a dip in the sea is a must.

The fab factor

A sunrise walk along the shoreline, accompanied by the sound of lapping water and the clink of rigging on yachts.

 

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