Larmont Sydney by Lancemore

The Larmont Sydney is an upscale, stylish pick for couples and business travelers looking to stay close to attractions and dining. The property feels immediately modern and welcoming, with an airy lobby decorated in a soothing gray-and-white color scheme that includes a curvy front desk, a small sitting area with furry chairs and a rug, and a cozy library with shelves and a big table. Although there aren’t many on-site features, the hotel has partnered with local businesses to offer an upscale experience, including the adjacent restaurant -- which serves an excellent breakfast menu that can be charged to the room -- the neighboring 24-hour fitness center, and a number of eateries that provide room service. The vibe is casual, and the hotel has a focus on wellness and modern technology that appeals to a younger crowd.Rates are on par with other upscale hotels in Sydney, but travelers seeking something cheaper can find a number of decent alternatives in the area, including the Kirketon Hotel Sydney (though it is simpler and maintenance issues have been reported) and the Quest Potts Point, featuring compact yet stylish rooms with kitchenettes, and a lovely rooftop terrace with views. The Central Business District also offers a wide array of great hotels in the same price range as the Larmont Sydney, in particular the Sheraton on the Park, Sydney and The Westin Sydney. For a little bit more money, the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney offers top-notch rooms, an excellent spa, and a great location in The Rocks.  

The hotel is right on the border between Kings Cross and Potts Point, two up-and-coming areas east of the Central Business District (CBD) that have seen lots of real estate development and the arrival of many upscale bars. Despite these changes, Kings Cross is still considered Sydney's red-light district, and has all the nightlife, thrills, and detractors that go along with that. Potts Point, however, feels safer, and has a hopping dining scene that draws locals and visitors alike. Though there aren’t any major attractions aside from Rushcutters Bay Park within an easy stroll of the hotel, Kings Cross train station is just a two-minute walk away, allowing for easy access to more tourist-friendly areas in Sydney. Main sights -- such as Darling Harbour, the Sydney Aquarium, Hyde Park, Centennial Park, Bondi Beach, Circular Quay, and the Opera House -- can all be found within a 15-minute drive of the hotel as well. The airport can be reached in about 20 minutes by car. 

The hotel has 103 rooms, all fully renovated in 2017 and decorated in a plush, contemporary style that combines soft-lined wooden furniture with a soothing gray-and-beige palette and pops of deep purple and white. Starting at 270 square feet, entry-level rooms feel well-sized, and large windows add visual space. Some units have furnished terraces with potted plants, while those on the building’s top floors (Signature Rooms and all suites) have wall-to-wall windows offering panoramic city views that include Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the city skyline. All rooms are outfitted with a wide array of excellent modern amenities, including smart TVs with Apple TV devices, Nespresso machines and electric kettles, Bose SoundTouch speakers, iPads, and minibars. Wi-Fi is free, fast, and reliable, and all guests get two free minibar items per day, including snacks and drinks. Beds with MicroCloud toppers and crisp white duvets get excellent reviews from guests. Most bathrooms have an open plan that might not appeal to everyone, but doors have frosted glass and blinds for privacy. Walk-in rainfall showers are clean and modern, and come stocked with an array of Malin + Goetz toiletries.  Four of the Terrace Rooms are pet-friendly and come with food and water bowls, treats, and beds.

A la carte breakfast is served every morning at The Hyde, a cute, casual restaurant attached to the hotel and offering street access as well. Portions are a sufficient size and food is tasty, but breakfast is not included in the standard rate and some have found it a tad overpriced. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, along with smoothies and snacks throughout the day. The hotel has partnered with eight local eateries that provide room service during business hours. Larmont Sydney has also partnered with the next-door, 24-hour gym, which offers free access to all guests staying at the hotel. Additionally, there is a movement studio inside the hotel offering free yoga and Pilates classes weekly. Underground parking is available on-site for a fee. Some guests may be disappointed that there are no pool, bar, or spa facilities on-site.