Wednesday, 25 June 2025

Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport: The Perfect Pre-Flight Stay That Feels Like a Destination

Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport

Redefining the Airport Hotel Experience

My recent overnight stay at the Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport wasn’t just a convenient way to get closer to an early flight—it was an unexpectedly luxurious start to my overseas journey. Officially reopened in December 2024, this is Australia’s very first Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel, and it's clear that it’s setting a new standard for what airport accommodation can be.

Located in Mascot, just minutes from Sydney Airport and a short train ride to the city, this hotel effortlessly combines location, comfort, and style. Whether you’re flying out, flying in, or simply seeking a short escape with city access, this newly refurbished property offers more than just a bed for the night—it offers a calm and curated experience designed for the modern traveller.

First Impressions: A New Era Begins

Lobby
Walking into the lobby, I immediately noticed that this wasn’t the same old airport hotel experience. Part of a $6 million public space renovation, the redesigned entrance features dramatic pendant lighting, a striking feature wall, and plenty of natural light. It’s stylish without being overstated, and completely transforms what used to be a transitional space into one that welcomes you to relax and enjoy.

General Manager David Ross put it best: “We’re proud to be welcoming a new era of airport accommodation, where it’s all about making the stay part of the journey.” And that sentiment is felt throughout every part of the hotel.

My Premium King High Floor Room: Designed to Unwind

My room
I stayed in a Premium King High Floor Room, and from the moment I stepped in, I felt at ease. Revamped by Stack Studio, the room was a sophisticated blend of warm tones, bronze light fixtures, and modern textures like the leather headboard. It was more than just attractive—it was practical. The blackout curtains, soundproofed windows, and a well-appointed desk made it easy to relax, work, or simply enjoy the views from above the busy airport precinct.

Despite being so close to the runways, it was blissfully quiet. I slept deeply and woke refreshed—something I never thought I’d say about a stay near an international terminal.

Immaculate Bathrooms with Luxe Touches

My bathroom
One of the unexpected highlights of my stay at Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport was the bathroom—spotless, spacious, and thoughtfully designed. Every detail reflected the hotel’s recent renovation, from the sleek tiling to the modern glass-enclosed shower. The basin and toilet areas were immaculately clean, and the lighting was both flattering and functional—ideal for early-morning departures or late-night arrivals. Adding to the sense of indulgence were the Antipodes amenities. The Fig & Feijoa Hand & Body Wash, along with the matching Shampoo and Conditioner, offered a gentle, botanical fragrance and a silky texture that elevated a simple shower into a refreshing spa-like experience. It’s those little touches—high-end, eco-conscious products and pristine presentation—that made even a brief overnight stay feel luxurious and well-considered.

Dining Done Right: Biggles and Sirocco

Biggles Bar & Gril
Dinner was at Biggles Bar & Grill, which has also been refreshed as part of the hotel’s broader renovation. The menu offered a surprisingly wide range of dishes, from fresh salads to hearty burgers, and the service was warm and attentive. I chose a grilled chicken salad with a local craft beer and found it exactly what I needed after a day of packing and airport admin.

In-room dining is also available 24/7, a great option if you’re arriving late or need something comforting before dawn.

Sirocco breakfast
And speaking of mornings, Sirocco served up an excellent breakfast buffet that exceeded expectations. The spread was both generous and well-curated, catering to every type of traveller. There were flaky fresh pastries, a variety of artisan breads, and a selection of seasonal fruits that tasted as vibrant as they looked. Hot breakfast favourites were all available—crispy bacon, grilled tomatoes, hash browns, and perfectly scrambled eggs—alongside a live cooking station where made-to-order eggs and omelettes were prepared just the way you like them. There were also healthier options, including bircher muesli, yoghurt, nuts, seeds, and dairy alternatives. For those on the go, takeaway options were thoughtfully arranged. And of course, the barista-made coffee hit the spot—strong, smooth, and served with a smile. Whether you’re fuelling up for a day of meetings or easing into your journey with a leisurely morning, Sirocco’s breakfast buffet is a strong start to any day.

Fitness, Wellness, and Space to Breathe

fitness centre 
The 24-hour fitness centre is compact but thoughtfully equipped, ideal for a quick pre-flight stretch, a post-meeting session, or even a full workout if you’re staying longer. It features a range of modern cardio machines, free weights, and resistance equipment—more than enough to maintain your routine while travelling. I followed mine with some much-needed time in the sauna, which proved to be the perfect way to ease into relaxation mode and melt away the stress of travel preparation. The fitness centre is very inviting, and it’s a quiet oasis of wellbeing tucked just minutes from the terminals.

Location Meets Lifestyle

hotel Shuttle bus
Positioned on the northern shores of Botany Bay, the hotel gives easy access to the airport. I took the hotel Shuttle bus to travel to the nearby International Airport. The hotel is also close to Sydney’s iconic sites. After dinner I took a quick train ride to the Opera House on Circular Quay to see the VIVID lights. For sports fans or event-goers, the hotel’s also perfectly located near the Sydney Cricket Ground, The Entertainment Quarter, and Randwick Racecourse.

Looking ahead, more renovations are planned throughout 2025 to elevate the dining and meeting spaces even further—making it an appealing spot not just for travellers, but also for locals seeking an event venue, meeting space, or staycation destination.

Why It’s More Than Just a Stopover

Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport
With 252 fully refurbished rooms, a stylish new lobby, impressive on-site dining, and wellness amenities that genuinely help you reset, Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport offers something rare in airport hotels: the feeling that you’re not just pausing your journey—you’re enjoying it.

Whether you’re travelling for business, leisure, or a bit of both, this property proves that a layover doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. It can, in fact, be one of the most relaxing parts of your trip.

Book Your Stay

Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport
Corner of O'Riordan Street & Bourke Road, Mascot, NSW 2020, Australia
Phone: +61 (02) 9330 0600
Email: reservations@cpsa.com.au
Website: https://www.sydneyairport.crowneplaza.com/
Dining: https://www.bigglesbarandgrill.com

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