The Sydney
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Expert Review: The Sydney
The Sydney, a Michelin Key Selected property in Martha's Vineyard, offers a highly-regarded boutique hotel experience blending historic charm with contemporary design in the heart of Edgartown.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The Sydney consistently receives "Superb" ratings, with Booking.com showing an average score of 9.3 out of 10 based on over 100 reviews. Guests frequently praise its prime location, exceptional cleanliness, and high comfort levels, earning scores of 9.8, 9.6, and 9.7 respectively. The general sentiment is one of a relaxing and warm atmosphere, where guests feel well-cared for and at home. Its recognition as a Michelin Key property further underscores its dedication to providing unique surroundings and a remarkable stay.
2. Key Highlights
Guests particularly love the hotel's central location in Edgartown, the friendly and accommodating staff, and the distinct, stylish design that sets it apart on the island. The complimentary small-plates breakfast and afternoon treats are a notable highlight, as are amenities like free high-speed Wi-Fi, beach towels, and available bicycles for exploring. The inviting central courtyard with a fire pit also serves as a popular spot for relaxation.
3. Room Quality
The Sydney features 22 beautifully designed guest rooms spread across two buildings: a newer structure with 14 contemporary rooms and the Historic Captain's House, which showcases preserved Victorian-era architectural details in its eight eclectic rooms. Rooms are described as stylish, eclectic, and thoughtfully designed to reflect the island's serene beauty. Options include King Rooms, King Deluxe rooms, and various suites such as the Sydney Suite, Vineyard Suite, and Lark Suite.
Standard room amenities typically include plush king beds, lounge chairs, bespoke furnishings, 43" LED Smart TVs, free high-speed WiFi, and individually controlled air conditioning. Private bathrooms come equipped with waffle kimono robes, hairdryers, and Lather bath products. Guests also appreciate practical touches like irons, ironing boards, blackout shades, plush linens, wine glasses, and corkscrews. While many rooms are praised for their comfort and design, some guests have noted that certain rooms, particularly older ones, can be quite small, advising careful review of room specifics before booking.
4. Dining Experience
The Sydney is home to L'Etoile, a renowned on-site restaurant operated by Chef Michael Brisson, which is considered a local favorite and serves dinner nightly. For breakfast, guests receive baskets delivered to their rooms or available in the lounge/patio between 8:00 and 8:15 AM. These baskets typically include fresh fruit, orange juice, coffee, overnight oats, a curated egg dish, and a selection of homemade sweet and savory pastries. Guest feedback on breakfast ranges from "lovely" and "varied" with healthy options to "okay" or "simple but nice." Additionally, the hotel offers a 24-hour front-desk area with taps dispensing still and sparkling water, kombucha, and cold-brew coffee, along with afternoon treats at 3 PM.
5. Service & Staff
The service and staff at The Sydney consistently receive high accolades. Guests describe the team as "excellent," "accommodating," "friendly," "welcoming," and "exceptional." Many reviews highlight the staff's ability to create a "relaxed and warm atmosphere," making guests feel as though they are staying at a friend's home. Staff are also noted for going "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant and comfortable stay, offering personalized concierge services and assisting with beach excursions and bicycle rentals.
6. Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an "awesome location" in the center of Edgartown, on North Water Street, just two blocks (approximately 492 feet or 150 meters) from Edgartown Harbor and the ferry to Falmouth. The area is highly walkable, allowing easy access to numerous shops, restaurants, art galleries, and charming boutiques. Lighthouse Beach is within walking distance, and the staff can guide guests to other popular spots like South Beach. It is important to note that The Sydney is a seasonal property, typically open from May through October.
7. Value & Pricing
While Booking.com rates "Value for money" at 8.6, pricing at The Sydney can vary significantly. One guest reported a tiny room costing "a rip off at $800 a night," suggesting a higher price point during peak season or for certain room types. However, other guests feel "the price you pay is worth it for the rooms and the service." Similar boutique hotels in Edgartown often fall into a price range of $300-$500 per night. Given the Michelin Key selection and high service standards, guests generally expect a premium price for the experience provided.
8. Common Complaints
The most frequently mentioned criticism pertains to the size of some rooms, with guests describing them as "tiny" or "small," especially in relation to the price paid. This suggests that room selection is crucial. One guest also noted the absence of brewed decaf coffee during breakfast. As a seasonal property, the hotel is closed from November to April, which could be a limitation for those wishing to visit outside these months.
