I’ve called Sydney home for almost 10 years, and though I love to travel further afield, I never miss the chance for a staycation in my own city. My most recent Sydney stay was at Ovolo Woolloomooloo, a stylish hotel uniquely set within a historic building on Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf. The hotel has one of the best locations in Sydney, right on the water, with some of the city’s most highly regarded restaurants located on the same wharf. It’s an excellent choice for both a romantic weekend away and a first-time trip to Sydney.
History
Since its completion in 1915, Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf – the longest timber-piled wharf in the world – has served as a cargo dock, a passenger terminal for soldiers deployed during WWII, and for migrants arriving in Australia in the 50s. Falling into disrepair in the 80s, the wharf was almost demolished, but was saved thanks to protests from the local community, which eventually led to a $300m makeover in 2000, creating 300 apartments, a hotel, bars and restaurants.
Ovolo purchased the hotel in 2015 and transformed it into the boutique hotel that stands today. Keeping true to the original industrial structure, and even keeping some of the original features, while adding stylish interiors and a splash of colour and greenery.
Location
Ovolo Woolloomooloo is set right on the water, with city skyline views, all while being a short stroll from Sydney’s main attractions. From Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf, you can be in the Botanic Gardens or Art Gallery of NSW in less than 10 minutes walk. A few minutes more and you’re in the CBD, and a 20-minute walk takes you to Circular Quay for the Sydney Opera House and ferries to Manly. It’s also a 12-minute walk to Kings Cross Station, for trains to Bondi Junction.
There are so many good restaurant options nearby, and that’s without considering all the eateries on the wharf. Sydney’s Crown Street is a 10-minute walk south and has so many incredible restaurants. I’ll share some of my recommendations later in the article. The hotel has valet parking if you’re travelling by car, though it is a little pricy at $95 AUD per night (book in advance).
The Lobby
The interior of the hotel is huge, with high ceilings, original woolhouse features and lots of greenery bringing warmth to the industrial building. The glass elevator offers an excellent view. Within the main lobby are the bar and restaurant, which feature additional wooden and glasshouse-style structures, to add a homely feel to the huge space.
Before you head into the elevator, don’t miss the (complimentary) sweet trolley. I really took advantage of this during our stay!
Rooms
Rooms at Ovolo feel fun, with bold colours, quirky art, and playful design touches that give each space character. The bed is comfortable, the layout is spacious, and the rooms offer lovely harbour (Maritime) or city (Horizon) views. Bonus points for recycling bins in the room – which I still don’t often see at hotels.
Facilities & Extras
Ovolo Woolloomooloo has a lovely and secluded pool, located on the eastern side of the wharf. It’s undercover, but luxury poolside cabanas just outside the large sliding doors mean you can relax al fresco if the weather permits. There is also a fully equipped fitness centre open 6am-10pm daily.
All stays include free WiFi and access to the self-service laundry. Breakfast is optional (and recommended). When you book directly with the hotel, your first round at the hotel’s happy hour is included. If you have a dog, the hotel offers a V.I.Pooch package, so you can bring your pet on holiday with you.
Food & Drink
Bar Woolloomooloo offers relaxed meals and snacks, with daily changing week night specials. On the wharf you’ll find China Doll (modern Asian), Otto (Italian), Akti (Greek) and Kingsleys (steak and seafood).
You’re also just a short stroll from some of Sydney’s best cafés and restaurants in Potts Point and the CBD. During our stay, we just couldnt decide where to eat, and ended up on a restaurant crawl starting at the hotel and making our way along Crown Street. Our evening of feasting included Japanese entrees at Moku, tapas at Paripé, and ended with incredible Sri Lankan cuisine at Kurumba.
For breakfast, you can choose from the buffet or à la carte. We went for the latter and had delicious baked eggs, coffee and virgin Bloody Marys.
Final Verdict
If your idea of a luxury Sydney stay involves harbour views, character-filled rooms, great extras and a location that’s just a few minutes from the action, Ovolo Woolloomooloo deserves a place on your shortlist. It’s not just a place to sleep, it’s a piece of Sydney’s history and a one-of-a-kind hotel experience.
