Review: Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour

If you ask a Sydneysider which part of our city they’d pick for a staycation, chances are Darling Harbour wouldn’t be their number one choice. It’s not that it doesn’t have its perks; it’s just that it’s got a reputation for being more targeted to tourists than locals.

However, my interest in a Darling Harbour stay was given a boost when I heard Ovolo Hotels had a property in the ‘hood.

Having already checked out their other two Aussie hotels – one in Melbourne and the other in nearby Woolloomooloo – I knew these guys would bring instant street cred. They didn’t disappoint.

Arriving on a sunny Saturday afternoon – after an exhausting 5km commute from my apartment, on the other side of the Bridge 😉 – the hipster exterior makes the hotel instantly recognizable.

Hot tip: The hotel doesn’t have on-site parking, but there is a parking lot across the road. Get your ticket validated by the reception team on your way out to enjoy a discounted rate of $39 for 24 hours.

Check-in is friendly and smooth, and we’d be on our way to our room immediately if it wasn’t for the temptation of the #selfieframe hanging in reception. It’s a fun way to transition to your cheesy holiday self and nab an Insta-worthy post in the process. Who can say no props?!

Speaking of Insta-worthy, you may need to hold yourself back or risk being unfollowed. Every feature of the hotel has been carefully thought-out, showcasing the signature playful-yet-polished Ovolo personality. It’s a social-media-lovers’ dream.

Converted from an old wool-store, the designers have done a great job of showcasing the building’s historic charm while adding a modern twist, making the most of the space.

Feeling peckish, we head to Ovolo’s bar, Lo Lounge. It buzzes with a weekend crowd enjoying drinks and snacks, and doubles as the hotel’s well-stocked breakfast spot the following morning.

Upstairs on level three, our room is compact but well-laid-out and most important in a touristy area, it’s quiet!

A colourful feature wall, funky artwork, an iPad complete with hotel and local area info, comfy bed, and a rainwater shower with Biology toiletries all get a big tick of approval from me.

However, my eyes are particularly drawn to my favorite kind of welcome treat: dessert and not just any dessert – a pretty chocolate one with edible flowers!

But that’s not the only freebie to make Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour stand out from the pack. Like the other Ovolos I’ve stayed in, the minibar is free! We’re talking beer, red and white wines, sparkling water, soft drinks, and orange juice. A ‘Loot Bag’ holds savoury and sweet treats, including popcorn, peanuts, chocolate, and lollies and there’s complimentary wi-fi, which is always a nice touch.

I may not have talked-up the area much, but there really is a lot to like about Darling Harbour. Hubby and I rise early the next day for a beautiful run over the Pyrmont Bridge, down to Barangaroo, and through to Circular Quay.

The Star – home to beautiful restaurants and the Lyric Theatre’s great stage shows – is an easy walk away. Nearby attractions like the National Maritime Museum, Madame Tussauds, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium are popular for a reason. And the Chinese Garden of Friendship is perfect for a peaceful stroll.

But it’s Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour that will have me heading back to this part of Sydney time and time again. Who knew a night away just 5km from home could be so recharging?!