One of Sydney's hot spots has undergone a face lift. Grab a beer, order some food and check out the best view in town.
The new Doyles Palace Hotel was built in 1912 and re-built in 1932 when it was named Palace Hotel. The Doyle family purchased it several years ago and decided to revert to the original name: Doyles Palace Hotel at Watson's Bay.
Just 12 kilometres from the centre of Sydney, regular bus and ferry services take visitors to and from Watson's Bay along very scenic routes.
The hotel has three levels. The lower level holds the foyer, reception and bar areas and the next two levels have 32 suites.
All suites have balcony, air conditioning, cable television and Internet. Breakfast is included in the rate.
The guest lounge has magnificent views up the harbour to the city and the famous beer garden (which has also been refurbished) has for many years been a popular meeting place. Winter and summer sees people in woolly jumpers or swimming gear and zinc cream enjoying life by the sea.
Watson's Bay is a peaceful place of beaches, parks and walks. There are restaurants nearby, including the famous Doyles Seafood Restaurant. Their first restaurant opened in 1885 and has been family owned and operated for five generations. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, a selection of fresh seafood and some of the city's best views.
A short stroll away is Doyles Fisherman's Wharf, jutting over the water. Here, too, you can dine inside or al fresco, enjoy the views along with fish, lobster, crab, prawns, oysters and other delicacies from Australian waters.
