Why an unlikely Sydney suburb has been described as Australia’s best place for a luxury staycation

Aussie travellers who believe they need to catch a plane to go on holiday will soon realise they have the ‘perfect’ staycation spot in their backyard – and they don’t even have to leave Sydney.

A weekend at the brand new Pullman in Penrith will transport you to a world of rest and restoration as you take in Western Sydney’s up-and-coming precinct.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore popular tourist spot Scenic World, take a day trip up the coast, and even catch a Penrith Panthers game at the world-class stadium. 

Thrill seekers can also walk across the road for a magical indoor skydiving experience at iFly with all the adrenaline and none of the risk.

After a full day of activities guests can retire to comfort and peruse the bespoke Sleep Therapy menu that includes everything you need for a night of rejuvenation. 

You can order everything from face and eye masks to aromatherapy pillow sprays, soothing teas, and an extensive pillow menu.

A weekend at the brand new Pullman in Penrith will transport you to a world of rest and restoration as you take in Western Sydney’s up-and-coming precinct

The hotel's mid-twentieth century design is reminiscent of iconic German architecture and the space boasts floor-to-ceiling views of the Blue Mountains

The hotel’s mid-twentieth century design is reminiscent of iconic German architecture and the space boasts floor-to-ceiling views of the Blue Mountains

Marcel Bar and Bistro

The stunning modern restaurant will feel like stepping into Europe for the night and living out your Parisian dreams with top chef Colin Chun’s classic French dishes.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore popular tourist spots in the Blue Mountains or take a day trip up the coast

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore popular tourist spots in the Blue Mountains or take a day trip up the coast

Its mid-twentieth century design is reminiscent of iconic German architecture and the space itself sprawls out atop a sweeping central staircase with floor-to-ceiling views of the Blue Mountains.

Menu highlights include the côte de bœuf, steak tartare, rum baba, and house-made terrines.

Despite its international influence, Marcel’s menu heroes local Australian ingredients from Sun’s Fresh Farm and Heng Fresh Farm in Western Sydney Parklands, Rita’s Farm in Wallacia, and free range and organic egg supplier Clarendon Farms.

The bar is a world of its own and guests are invited to get a hands-on experience by walking into the open cellar and browsing.

The modern restaurant will feel like stepping into Europe for the night and living out your Parisian dreams

Menu highlights include the côte de bœuf, steak tartare, rum baba, and house-made terrines

The stunning modern restaurant will feel like stepping into Europe for the night and living out your Parisian dreams with top chef Colin Chun’s classic French dishes

Sommeliers are ever-present to chat through the collection of wine from around the globe – with Marcel’s shelves boasting everything from a rich Bordeaux to a crisp New Zealand sauvignon blanc.

Akshay Arora, Director of Food and Beverage, said: ‘There are no shortcuts for us. We’re bringing back old-school hospitality with a touch of elegance, attention to detail, and also some really interactive experiences to enrich our guests’ enjoyment.

Patrons of the Pullman are only a 45-minute drive away to the top of the Blue Mountains

Patrons of the Pullman are only a 45-minute drive away to the top of the Blue Mountains

‘Penrith deserves this recognition. It’s a vibrant city of its own with a need for somewhere iconic to celebrate special occasions; a place where locals can invite others from near and far and show off the pride of Penrith.’ 

Day trip to the Blue Mountains

Patrons of the Pullman are only a 45-minute drive away to the top of the Blue Mountains – one of the most iconic and must-visit destinations in New South Wales.

Areas like Katoomba and Leura are perfect for shopping and sightseeing with an array of vintage stores dotted throughout.

Adventure-seekers can also travel to Scenic World to hop aboard the world’s steepest railway into the Jamison Valley.

The small passenger train descends 310 metres down the side of a mountain at a nerve-racking 52-degree angle through the lush forest and in and out of rock tunnels. 

Tourists have been left shocked by Katoomba's Scenic Railwayin the Blue Mountains near Sydney, which is the steepest railway in the world

Tourists have been left shocked by Katoomba’s Scenic Railwayin the Blue Mountains near Sydney, which is the steepest railway in the world

The small passenger train descends 310 metres down the side of a mountain at a nerve-racking 52-degree angle through the lush forest and in and out of rock tunnels

The small passenger train descends 310 metres down the side of a mountain at a nerve-racking 52-degree angle through the lush forest and in and out of rock tunnels

While the current train is very safely encased and protects passengers, many remember the ride without a roof or even proper doors before it was given a modern update. 

The Scenic Railway has been through five upgrades since the mid 1940s with its most recent in 2013 given passengers the option to take one of three rides depending on how brave they are feeling.

Riders can chose to take the Original 52-degree journey, the relaxed Laidback ride or the adventurous 64-degree Cliffhanger option by adjusting the seats. 

The one-of-a-kind railway ventures down the mountain through a cliff to the floor of the Jamison Valley while showcasing breathtaking views of the rainforest through the glass roof. 

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