Pullman Quay Grand Harbour Sydney Hotel
If you are cruising into or out of Sydney and are looking for the perfect pre-or post-cruise hotel you need look no further than the Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour
Location
The hotel, which is part of the Accor Hotels chain, is in a prime position right on Circular Quay. It is adjacent to the ferry terminal, a minute from Circular Quay rail station and a short walk to both the Opera House and the Rocks. Our trip was to celebrate our forthcoming 40th wedding anniversary which I mentioned when booking, asking for a room with a view. When we arrived we had been allocated aNot only did we have a perfect vista (see below) but on arrival there was a chilled bottle of sparkling wine for us to enjoy. Such a lovely gesture.
Our room had a separate bedroom and open plan lounge/kitchen area and included laundry facilities (useful to be able to wash clothes in preparation for next stage of trip - if I'd realised I might have packed a bit lighter). There was a generous bathroom with a huge spa bath and separate shower. The bedroom had two generous hanging wardrobes plus drawers. Wall mounted TVs in both bedroom and lounge.
Without a doubt the best thing about the room was the balcony looking out over all the action of circular quay with a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The hotel is low rise and sits above the restaurants so you really are amidst the hubbub.
Although this wasn’t a cruise holiday this time, we loved watching the ferries come and go and especially the odd cruise ship docked opposite. I had read reports that the rooms had seen better days but ours was absolutely fine - not new but very clean and comfortable. I would say it's the position and view that contributes to the hotel star rating rather than the facilities and decor.
We booked direct with AccorHotels and having joined their free loyalty club, gained a reduced breakfast of $1 Australian dollar pp pd. I had read quite negative reviews about the breakfast, but in fact it was my husband's favourite out of all the hotels we stayed in on our months trip. He loves a cooked meal in the mornings and The Big Breakfast didn't disappoint! In fact it defeated him on more than one occasion. It is not a buffet but a la carte. You can mix and match items from the menu and there were choices for the most discerning pallets. The fruit plate was one of the best I've had anywhere and the pancakes light and fluffy. The restaurant is lovely and bright and overlooks the quay.
My only criticism would be the fact that they appeared understaffed in the restaurant so service could be very slow. Worth pointing out to staff if you are in a hurry to get somewhere, otherwise sit back and enjoy the view and a leisurely breakfast.
There is an indoor pool which is quite small but looked refreshing, and fitness centre, neither of which we used.
We loved the position of this hotel and being able to sit out on the balcony with a bottle of wine and soak in the essence of Sydney made our trip and I would definitely recommend, especially to first time visitors and cruise enthusiasts.
Details
61 Macquarie Street
2000
SYDNEY
AUSTRALIA
Tel: +61292564000
Fax: (+61)2/92564040