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The sebel quay west sydney view of the harbour bridge

The Sebel Quay West Review: Outstanding View, Perfect Location


There’s only a handful of hotels in Sydney that can offer a view of both the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House from any window you look out. Some of the most famous include the Park Hyatt at Circular Key and the newly finished Crown Casino in Barangaroo, but there’s another newly renovated hotel we’d like you to add to your list. We were invited to spend a night at The Sebel Quay West Suites in Sydney to experience the success of their multi-million dollar renovation and take in that priceless view for ourselves.

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The sebel quay west sydney lobby and front desk
Image: The Sebel

The Sebel Quay West Suites in Sydney is not your average ‘new kid on the block’ hotel. It has a history in The Rocks that dates back to the 1960s when the likes of Elton John, Zsa Zsa Gabor and Bette Davis would frequent, but after many years the hotel was starting to show its age and a multi-million dollar refurbishment was in store before crowds returned post-COVID.

From the moment you step foot inside the hotel you’re quickly made aware of the refurbishment. The lobby is refreshed with luxurious, classic finishes throughout. It’s not ‘in your face’ by any means and we’d say it lands a good mix of modern classic styling that we believe will deliver a timeless aesthetic for years to come.

Along with the lobby, the all-suite hotel rooms have been revived to showcase a bright and warm ambience with the use of premium fixtures, designer lighting, and soft furnishings throughout. The design team worked with renowned interior designer, Mel Porter, and took inspiration from the panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and its locality in the Rocks to deliver features we love such as the plush blue statement chairs against cream sofas and marble table tops that seem to give a nod to Sydney Harbour.

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The sebel quay west inside the room 2
Image: The Sebel

We like to think the view does the talking on its own, but we were certainly lost for words when we opened the door of our one-bedroom harbour view suite (featured image) to finish a little work off on a Friday afternoon. Watching the world go by with the ferries, weather, and cars on the Harbour Bridge is truly what makes this hotel great. You could be anywhere in the world, but sitting in that room was special and we didn’t want to leave for dinner or breakfast.

Our room was located on the 22nd floor where the views were absolutely outstanding. We’re pleased to report that all tables, chairs, and general furniture are of the highest quality and we were happy to find the bathroom followed suit with a clean shower, vanity, and surfaces.

The bed was more than comfortable, however, if we had to point our finger at anything the sheets could be softer and the pillows plusher. Our only other gripe was with the noise coming through the windows. It was raining and windy during our stay but the sound coming off the street and traffic from the bridge was apparent all through the night. We’ll say that if you’re a light sleeper, ask for a quiet room and sacrifice the view.

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The sebel quay west sydney view from a suite
Image: The Sebel

Customer service was as strong as you would expect for a hotel of this calibre, and the staff continued to go out of their way to make sure our stay was as comfortable as possible. Most importantly, we regularly saw the same for other hotel guests. Curated artwork selections and high-quality furniture pieces line the hallways of the hotel and match those that are in your room for a smooth transition between private and public areas.

Whether you’re looking for a short escape, special occasion trip, business travel, family stay or even a long-term stay, we highly recommend checking out one of the rooms at The Sebel – preferably one with a view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Room rates at The Sebel Quay West start at $339 per night. For more information and to book visit the link below.

Check it out

The sebel quay west view from a suite
Image: The Sebel
The sebel quay west inside a suite
Image: The Sebel
The sebel quay west inside the room
Image: The Sebel

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