Crystalbrook Byron

“A quality, welcoming, high end hotel, worth every penny.”

I know it may be a bit early to write a review, but first impressions are rarely wrong. We've had forty four years of marriage, are retired professionals and have travelled widely...this year a month touring Northern Spain/Gallicia, a month in top end Thailand..now five weeks in Oz...the best until… more

I know it may be a bit early to write a review, but first impressions are rarely wrong. We've had forty four years of marriage, are retired professionals and have travelled widely...this year a month touring Northern Spain/Gallicia, a month in top end Thailand..now five weeks in Oz...the best until last....driving/nice hotels etc. We've had multiple stays along the Coast, since arriving in Sydney two weeks ago, but this hotel is in a different league...re quality. And yes, I've read earlier reviews. Our arrival and greeting: It could not have been better with a charming and ultra helpful Aya ( have I spelt her name correctly?) on Reception. She drove us around to our Suite E31 and generously proferred advice and help that would enhance our stay. On entry: Everything was spotlessly clean and soft furniturings, appliances, fittings, construction materials etc. could have been brand new. The design was 'top end Sydney'...very stylish and user friendly. Our suite: My goodness, this is quality accommodation. The design and finish is superb. Basically, it is a collection of zones: bedroom; dressing room; bath and shower room; front and back outdoor balcony chilling areas with comfy seating; a long lounge with kitchen one end, plus a dining table and desk, and lounge seating at the other, with a central TV. All the zones can be divided off with sliding, well made, designer screening. The hard wood floor, although warm underfoot, cleverly unifies the whole. The rear blinds open up a stunning view of subtropical jungle, with gentle bird noise playing the background sound track (we could live here...it's very, very comfy). The little extras tell tell the tale: stylish Japanese'esque robes (I look like one of the Seven Samurai...does this mean anything to the reader?), fluffy fresh towels, free 'essentials' in the fridge eg milk', a large comfortable bed with quality bedding and chunky, soft pillows, like home, a range of natural toiletries...etc. Breakfast: Again we were greeted and sat by the friendliest, most helpful and professional team of ladies who understood hospitality and service. They were smiling, quick to chat and share thoughts, and willingly helped with order selection. The food was tasty and plentiful, with enough choice for the most 'fundamental ' vegan, woke, 'influencer'.....to Crocodile Dundee. The breakfast/dining room was smart and extremely comfortable, with outside and inside tables. It felt........posh, but optionally smart or casual. As for 'tired'. I think they've missed the point. The faded wooden strips haven't been soaked in chemicals/preservatives, the cheaper option, but replaced as nature takes it's toll. If earlier reviewers had focussed more on the grounds, they would have seen a romantic stream pass quietly through the grounds (no mention), with echoes of Monet's Lilly Pond. We've yet to try dinner or pick our way down to the beach, but we both highly rate this hotel to date. And no, we are not 'influencers', related or have a vested interest...just seasoned travellers, who are quick to afford credit where credit is due. Many thanks... Bernie

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“In total no recommendation”

The location and surroundings are nice, but the rooms are old and not worth the price. The pool and bar areas are nice, with a beautiful ambience. The staff ranged from excellent to poor, which came as a negative surprise. The quality of breakfast and dinner was OK, but too expensive for what was … more

The location and surroundings are nice, but the rooms are old and not worth the price. The pool and bar areas are nice, with a beautiful ambience. The staff ranged from excellent to poor, which came as a negative surprise. The quality of breakfast and dinner was OK, but too expensive for what was on offer. I recommend eating in the city.

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