Harbour Rocks Hotel

"Chiseled from a sandstone-and-brick wool factory on the site of Sydney ’s first hospital, the Harbour Rocks Hotel is one of the most historic accommodations in the Rocks—and maybe the most haunted. Hotel staff say part of the building, named Scarlett’s Cottages after a well-known lady of the night, is watched over by Eric, a man who once lived here and who still searches for Scarlett in the labyrinthine corridors after she swore her love to him and then disappeared. Ghosts aside, the hotel’s 59 rooms are peaceful, with high ceilings, Georgian arched windows, brick walls painted dark gray, Old West–style textiles, and wool carpeting that recalls the building’s former life. The place is filled with fun artifacts, too, from the ancient luggage lift to old maps and letters framed on the walls. The early-20th-century history that pervades the building is also found in every direction outside its doors."

"Chiseled from a sandstone-and-brick wool factory on the site of Sydney ’s first hospital, the Harbour Rocks Hotel is one of the most historic accommodations in the Rocks—and maybe the most haunted. Hotel staff say part of the building, named Scarlett’s Cottages after a well-known lady of the night, is watched over by Eric, a man who once lived here and who still searches for Scarlett in the labyrinthine corridors after she swore her love to him and then disappeared. Ghosts aside, the hotel’s 59 rooms are peaceful, with high ceilings, Georgian arched windows, brick walls painted dark gray, Old West–style textiles, and wool carpeting that recalls the building’s former life. The place is filled with fun artifacts, too, from the ancient luggage lift to old maps and letters framed on the walls. The early-20th-century history that pervades the building is also found in every direction outside its doors."

"How did it strike you on arrival? Once a colonial warehouse, boutique charmer Harbour Rocks Hotel is set in a converted heritage brick building in Sydney’s oldest quarter The Rocks, a short stroll from Circular Quay. Nice. What’s the crowd like? A mixed tribe of travelers gathers here, from international tourists to holidaying Australians and business guests. Harbour Rocks is part of AccorHotels’ MGallery by Sofitel collection of high-end stays with unique personality and history. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. Teaming dark walls with natural light from large windows, leather lounge chairs, modern task lamps, art and craft pieces, the 59 contemporary, loft-style rooms and suites within the 150-year-old building have an elegant look. Some Heritage Superior Rooms are set in original 1870 workers’ cottages, and feature ornamental fireplaces and additional sitting areas. Studio Suites offer a lounge area and extra double-sofabed. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us? Oversized wooden headboards and patterned throws and cushions inspired by kilim rugs give generous queen and kingsize beds wow factor. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? Gourmet minibars and tea- and coffee-making kits feature in all rooms, alongside iPod docks, LED TVs and Foxtel cable channels. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms with bathrobes and quality products. The top-tier Harbour View Suite has a bath and walk-in rain shower. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word? Enjoy high-speed internet access in rooms plus a work desk. Room service: Worth it? Order room service from Dinner@Scarlett, with smart dishes from the in-house restaurant, or 24 Hour Nibbles (casual comfort food such as pizza, pies and lasagne). Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? Staff can help with tours and sightseeing recommendations. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. Eric’s Bar by reception pours local wines, beers and spirits with bar bites. Vintage French-inspired Creperie Suzette serves savory and sweet crepes, galettes and coffee with interiors by Sibella Court. For breakfast or dinner, Scarlett restaurant offers tempting meat, fish and Italian dishes with cocktails, wine and beer. The intimate space combines sandstone walls, tan leather banquettes, and white furniture and pendant lights, opening onto atmospheric Nurses Walk lane. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay? For Sydney Opera House vistas, bag the top-floor Harbour View Suite, which has a separate bedroom and living room and an airy terrace with outdoor seating and a barbecue. Bottom line: worth it, and why? Unwind in the romantic, semi-alfresco Garden Terrace, fringed with plants and hung with contemporary lights, which overlooks Nurses Walk. The high-ceilinged, book-lined lobby lounge also makes a calm spot for coffee." - Sophie Davies

"One of the city’s earliest conversions was the Harbour Rocks Hotel, a late 19th-century building made from bricks and stones laid by convicts. After serving as the Evans Stores for several decades and then the Harrington Street Gallery, it was turned into a hotel in 1989, although many of its best architectural features were covered up during the redesign. Thankfully, a major refurbishment in 2012 pared back the interiors to reveal the original brickwork, sandstone, and beams, allowing guests to appreciate the building’s storied history." - Sophie Friedman

"Once a colonial warehouse, boutique charmer Harbour Rocks Hotel is set in a converted heritage brick building in Sydney’s oldest quarter The Rocks, a short stroll from Circular Quay. The hotel attracts a wide range of travelers from tourists to business folk." - Sophie Davies