Pier One Sydney Harbour

We take the guesswork out of local travel with our tips on where to stay, eat, drink and play. This month, GT hits the harbour.

At Sydney’s Pier One, a room with a view is an understatement. Especially so when you check into the Admiral Suite. With the Sydney Harbour Bridge soaring above and ferries cruising by, the suite comes complete with a spacious bedroom and relaxed living area, plus a private balcony. All overlooking the majestic harbour, which is referenced in the hotel’s design. Pier One recently underwent a $15 millionrefurbishment by acclaimed architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, which took five years to complete. The design takes its cues from the wharf’s heritage and nautical ties, with all of the 189 rooms featuring deep blue hues, exposed beams, soft linens, and mirrors positioned to reflect the impressive harbour surrounds. Pet-lovers will also be pleased to know Pier One welcomes dogs and offers special rooms with direct pier access for its canine guests and their humans. pieronesydneyharbour.com.au

Pier One conveniently sits between two major ferry terminals, Circular Quay and Barangaroo. Hop on at

Circular Quay and take an iconic ride across the Harbour’s cerulean waters to Manly. The beach-side suburb is teeming with cafés, restaurants and bars, and is surrounded by pebble-strewn coves and long-stretching bush-walks. Stop in at Rollers Bakehouse for a buttery pastry before strolling north to Shelley Beach – an ideal snorkelling spot. The Barangaroo ferry terminal also offers a direct service to Cockatoo Island – a UNESCO World Heritage site giving visitors a glimpse at Sydney’s unique convict history. It’s also dotted with art installations and educational exhibits.