Last year, my mum, Kaydes, and I stayed at the Rendezvous Hotel Sydney, right in the heart of The Rocks. We booked the One Bedroom Apartment with Harbour views, and it was a time we still talk about – mostly for good reasons, though my mum’s tumble did leave a lasting memory!
One of the best aspects of the Rendezvous Hotel is its location. It’s incredibly central, just a short downhill walk to the Overseas Passenger Terminal and Circular Quay. We made the most of the light rail and train transport nearby, exploring Sydney with ease.
As soon as you approach the hotel, you’re greeted by its impressive front facade. The massive structure is both striking and inviting. The blend of the round door opening with the surrounding colours gives a nod to the neighbouring historic buildings, yet the clear glass facade hints at the modern space inside. It’s the kind of entrance that pulls you in, almost as if it’s inviting you to discover what lies beyond.
The Apartment with a View
Our apartment, perched on one of the top floors of the Rendezvous Hotel, offered stunning views of Sydney Harbour from the balcony. We arrived at night, so the Opera House looked brilliant, against the black night sky. The water shimmered with reflected lights, with ferries adding a touch of movement to the scene.
The apartment was both spacious and nicely equipped, making it perfect for our needs. The kitchen was stocked with everything necessary for preparing basic meals, including a full-size fridge and freezer. When we first arrived, my mum popped down to a nearby convenience store just 100m away to grab essentials like milk for Kaydes, ensuring we had everything we needed right from the start.
The living area boasted a TV that swivelled, allowing us to watch from either the dining table or the lounge area. There was also a small study area where I spent some time repacking our suitcase. But our favourite feature was definitely the balcony, complete with patio furniture, and was our morning go-to spot for drinks and snacks.
Inside, the bedroom was cozy and comfortable, with a plush bed and a wardrobe. A cot for Kaydes was provided and set up in the living area, ensuring she had a comfortable space of her own.
Local Area Highlights
Staying at Rendezvous Hotel gave us the perfect base to explore The Rocks, one of Sydney’s most historic neighbourhoods. With its cobblestone streets and charming shops, it feels like stepping back in time. The hotel also offers easy access to some of Sydney’s most delightful local attractions.
A brief walk from the hotel led us to Circular Quay. A bustling hub with its lively ferry terminal and spectacular waterfront views. This area served as a convenient starting point for our adventures. Its proximity was invaluable, especially since we needed quick and easy transport to the airport again.
Additionally, the city centre was just a stone’s throw from Rendezvous Hotel, providing plenty more to explore. Since I needed to swap over my July carry-on suitcase at their store, it was convenient that it was only a 20-minute walk away. We made the most of our outing by enjoying morning tea at The Grounds of the City. With its stunning, vintage-inspired decor, it exudes an old-world charm that transports you straight to a 1920s European café. We absolutely loved it there.
A Few Hiccups
Of course, no stay is without its little bumps. The apartment did show some signs of wear and tear, which is to be expected given the hotel’s age. But the wonderful view and location more than made up for it.
As we were getting ready to check out, my mum had a bit of an accident. She was using the ranch slider door to steady herself while stepping down from the raised balcony when she noticed Kaydes approaching. In an effort to avoid falling onto her, the door shifted, causing my mum to lose her balance and land on her hand, with her pinky finger painfully going askew. Ouch!
Wonderful Facilities and Staff
The Rendezvous Hotel offers a range of impressive amenities, including a well-equipped gym and a pool. Although we didn’t have the chance to use these facilities during our stay, they certainly added to the appeal of the hotel.
From the moment we checked in, the staff were friendly, helpful, and always ready to go the extra mile. I had ordered a few things for me, cutting it close on whether they’d arrive in time. The hotel kindly held onto the packages until we arrived, which was a huge relief.
And on the day we were due to check out, I knew I would need some extra time to swap my July suitcase and then repack. The staff graciously granted us a late check-out. Giving me some breathing room I needed before heading to the airport for our flight to Hawaii. Little did I know, that we needed that time for mum to recover from the fall too!
Our stay at Rendezvous Hotel Sydney The Rocks was a blend of comfort, stunning views, and a touch of excitement. Despite the little mishap with Mum’s finger, we left with fond memories of our time in Sydney. If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot with great views and a central location, this hotel is definitely worth considering.
Have you ever stayed at a hotel that left a lasting impression? What made it stand out for you? Let me know in the comments below.
Lore & Tempo is where motherhood meets adventure. I’m Ren – storyteller, explorer, and single mum in Wellington, New Zealand. I’ve been lucky enough to wander through 45 countries. 15 of them with my +1, Kaydes, either strapped to my front, on my hip, or running ahead on her own adventures. I created this space to share single parent life, travel tips, and the joy of exploring the world.
