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A visit to the Q Station retreat in Sydney

When you’re invited to check-in to Q Station, once North Head Quarantine Station, it’s an offer you simply must accept.

When you’re invited to check-in to Q Station, once North Head Quarantine Station, it’s an offer you simply must accept.

 

 

I visited the unique site where the past and present awakens and you see just why this significant landmark set within 30 acres of the Sydney Harbour National Park is about.

Upon arrival, I discovered that in 24 hours – all too short – will be anything like what I have experienced before. A retreat in a landmark where ghost stories are encouraged to learn about the secrets of the past, not quite a resort but a retreat to unwind and escape to the surrounds of nature.

History Fact: Back in the 1800s settlers would stop at Quarantine Station, in order to be check and cleared before arriving in Sydney. To house the passengers they built the accommodation buildings, which have been converted to what we see today.

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Rafael Ruiz, John Spiers (F&B Manager)

As I arrived at reception, I was politely reminded that the site is reserved for hotel and restaurant guests, making this quite an exclusive property than most hotels I had visited. It was more to do with that we are entering the National Park and rules do apply.

When you arrive, you will be driven by one of the many courtesy Q Station shuttles direct to your building block or to the restaurants.

Despite the cloudy weather and the minor drizzle. I was certainly looking forward to my staycation.

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Views Restaurant – Breakfast

There are five different room types available, and I was lucky enough to stay in a Deluxe Queen Harbour view. Located in the Former Second Class Precinct, sharing a communal terrace/deck I located my room and entered through the French style doors.

Really impressed with how they retain the historical aspects of the room and added a touch of modern conveniences, even an ensuite bathroom.

There are 84 rooms, 11 heritage rooms and suites, 64 deluxe room and suites, and 9 three-bedroom cottages. The Cottages are perfect for families or a small group of friends. Imagine living in our own home in a middle of a national park.

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Poached barramundi, ox tail bourguignon, smoked potatoes puree, white asparagus

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Beetroot risotto, goats curd, walnuts, sorrel

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Yoghurt bavarois, white chocolate, hazelnut, blueberries

The Luggage Store Café is available for lunch and includes a free exhibition of the Quarantine Station. For breakfast head to Views Restaurant and dig into a delicious breakfast buffet treat.

After a long day, I headed to the Engine Room Bar for a pre-dinner beverage before heading to the Boilerhouse Restaurant. Here I got to meet Kun Rahadian, the Director of Sales & Marketing, and John, Food & Beverage Manager.

You can read on for my full Boilerhouse Harbourside Restaurant and Bar review, but for now. I’ll give you a slight sample of what was dished up by Sous Chef, Matt Smith.

Entrée- Beetroot risotto filled with goats curd, walnuts and sorrel
Main – Poached barramundi, oxtail bourguignon, smoked potatoes puree, white asparagus
Dessert – Yoghurt bavarois, white chocolate, hazelnut.

There are plenty of activities on offer here. Take your pick from hiring a bike, yoga and wellness weekends, to historical tours. Definitely give the ghost tours a go and visit the old hospital, meet the Matron. Choose from the family friendly Ghost Trackers or not easily scared, there are a few options available. From Encounters, to Sleepovers and Paranormal Investigation tours– choose your haunted experience.

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Q Station Sydney Harbour National Park – Manly

I had lovely overnight experience, and I’m not sure what I am going to miss the most. The location and serenity of being at a national park, the friendly service from the staff, or the delicious meals and beverages shared from the restaurant and bar.

There is want thing for sure, I’m looking forward to returning back.

Q Station Sydney Harbour National Park – Manly
www.qstation.com.au
North Head Scenic Drive, Manly NSW 2095
T: +61 (02) 9466 1500 | E: H8773@accor.com

To read more blog posts from Rafael Ruiz visit www.travlifestyle.com