Crystalbrook Albion, Surry Hills, Sydney, Australia - Explore & Book
"This is for those who want to discover the dynamic urban heart of Sydney, away from the touristy beach and harbour areas. Set in vibrant Surry Hills, the hotel (formerly called Little Albion) has a first-class location amongst independent shops, cool little cafes, historic pubs and bars serving craft beers and biodynamic wines. Despite the suburb's colourful history (it was a notorious slum in the 1920s, rife with crime, alcohol, gambling and violence), things have gentrified in recent years, and now it's one of Sydney's trendiest enclaves, popular with young creative types and foodies.Like its neighbourhood, the guesthouse is an arty and eclectic mix of old and new, set in a cleverly converted 1920s convent. A contemporary brick, glass and steel extension has been stitched onto the old building, and the 35 bedrooms and lounge areas are spread between the 2 parts. Inspired by 1920s and 1970s design, interiors are a hedonistic palette of crushed velvets, printed fabrics, geometric wallpapers and terrazzo and marble surfaces in pinks, greens and blues. Large glass windows flood the building with light, and the stairwell houses a portrait of infamous madam and crime boss, Tilly Devine — a nod to Surry's gritty past. Utterly unique. Highs Surry Hills itself: a buzzy, villagey feel, with great eateries, coffee hubs and vintage boutiquesSuper-comfortable beds with down pillows and quality white linensThe relaxed ambiance; grab a drink from the honesty bar and head up to the rooftop terrace to admire the architecture of the buildingGreat value in an increasingly expensive cityHyde Park, the Opera House and Darling Harbour are all walkable from here Lows Surry Hills is still a little bit rough around the edgesThere's no restaurant, but that's hardly a problem in this neighbourhoodWhile children are welcome, we think it's best suited to adultsOur Smart TV internet hotspot dropped out frequentlySome rooms face onto adjacent buildings and are a bit dark, but the interiors are the focus anyway" - Tracy Mills
