Penrith's Hidden Gem: The Select Inn - Sydney's Best-Kept Secret!
Penrith's "Hidden Gem" - The Select Inn: My Chaotic, Wonderful Staycation Breakdown! (SEO Edition - Buckle Up!)
Okay, so I just got back from The Select Inn in Penrith, Sydney. "Hidden Gem" they call it? Honestly, after my experience, I'm half-tempted to gatekeep this place and keep it all to myself (sorry, SEO!). But then, I'm all about sharing the good stuff, even if it means the whole internet discovers my little Penrith paradise. Let’s dive in, shall we? Prepare for the messy, unfiltered truth, because that's the only way I roll. And hopefully, this review will convince you to book. Seriously, book now.
Accessibility & Safety - The Essentials (and a few surprise wins!)
First off, let's get the boring bits out of the way (but trust me, it’s important). Accessibility is a big win for The Select Inn. They've got an elevator, which is essential, and the website mentions facilities for disabled guests. I didn't need them personally this trip, but it's a great sign. Speaking of essentials: Cleanliness and safety are clearly top priorities. I noticed anti-viral cleaning products being used (phew!). The rooms are sanitized between stays, which is a massive comfort, and there's hand sanitizer everywhere. They’ve got CCTV in common areas and outside the property, which is reassuring. And, bonus points for the safety deposit boxes. Honestly, the security felt rock solid. Plus, they've got fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and soundproof rooms because, well, safety first, and sanity second!
Internet Access - The Modern Necessity (Plus That Glorious Free Wi-Fi!)
Alright, let’s talk internet. Because let’s be real, is a stay even a stay if you can't instantly upload that envy-inducing Instagram story of your perfect latte? The Select Inn delivers. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! HALLELUJAH! Seriously, it was FAST. I'm talking streaming Netflix without buffering fast. They also offer Internet [LAN] for those of you who are still rocking that wired life. The Internet services were solid throughout the hotel. Honestly, for a business-y type hotel that's totally geared for comfort, this is great.
Rooms & Amenities - My Personal Oasis (and a minor coffee-related mishap!)
Let's get to the good stuff: the room. (My messy, slightly-too-honest thoughts incoming). I booked a standard room, but honestly, it felt anything BUT standard! Here’s what I loved, in no particular order:
- Air conditioning: Essential for a Sydney stay!
- Blackout curtains: Glorious! Slept like a baby (until the toddler in the room next door started their pre-dawn workout, but hey, you can't win 'em all).
- Coffee/tea maker: Crucial. Especially because of… (see below).
- Desk: Perfect for, you know, working… or pretending to work while scrolling through TikTok.
- Extra long bed: I’m tall, I need it!
- Free bottled water: Always a bonus.
- In-room safe box: Peace of mind.
- Mini bar: (Okay, I'm not a huge mini-bar person, but it was there!)
- Private bathroom: Always a MUST.
- Satellite/cable channels: Good for a bit of chill time.
- Seating area: Comfy spot to relax (after you've scrolled through TikTok).
- Shower: Excellent water pressure. *A personal note: I had a slight coffee-related hiccup. The room service coffee arrived without sugar. I was already half-dressed and didn't want to make a fuss. So I just used a teaspoon and somehow knocked it over. The blackout curtains nearly suffered, until I remembered to breathe!! I had it cleaned. *
- Wake-up service: Thank God I have this.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Still loving it.
- Window that opens: Fresh air is a must.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking - Food Glorious Food (and a surprisingly epic bar!)
Okay, so I am a bit of a foodie. And honestly, I was expecting hotel food, you know? But The Select Inn blew me away.
- Restaurants: Yes, plural! And they've got it all. A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant. I did not expect so many options. I think I tried almost everything.
- Room service [24-hour]: YES! Because late-night cravings are REAL.
- Poolside bar: Didn't make it to the pool, but the bar looked fantastic.
- Bar: Holy moly. The bar was AMAZING. Seriously, the cocktails were creative, the bar staff were friendly and knew their stuff, and the atmosphere was buzzing but not overwhelming. It was the perfect spot for a pre-dinner aperitif.
- Breakfast [buffet]: A seriously impressive spread. Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant. I may or may not have had three plates of bacon. Don't judge.
- Snack bar: Perfect for a quick bite.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Spa Day Dreams (and a sneaky fitness session!)
- Fitness center: I actually managed to get my butt to the gym. It was well-equipped and surprisingly not crowded.
- Spa (Spa/sauna): This is where things got… magical. I opted for the full works. A body scrub, body wrap, massage - the works. I'll be honest, I went into a near-coma of relaxation. The Sauna, Steamroom, and Foot bath were total bonuses. The Swimming pool [outdoor] looked idyllic even though I did not go in it.
- Swimming pool: You have the choice for that.
- Pool with view: It's stunning.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Ok, so here are some of the services that really made my stay top notch:
- Cash withdrawal
- Concierge
- Daily housekeeping
- Elevator
- Ironing service
- Laundry service
- Luggage storage
- Meeting/banquet facilities
- Safety deposit boxes
- Air conditioning in public area
- Contactless check-in/out
- Doorman
- Front desk [24-hour]
- Invoice provided
- Taxi service
For the Kids - A Family-Friendly Haven (Future Trips!)
Okay, I don't have kids, but I noticed they are well prepared. They have babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and Kids meal,
Getting Around - Easy Peasy
They've got Airport transfer, which is a lifesaver if you’re flying in. Also, Car park [free of charge].
In Conclusion: Book It! (Seriously, Do It Now!)
The Select Inn isn't just a "hidden gem." It's a multi-faceted experience. It's a haven for relaxation, a foodie's delight, a work-from-anywhere dream, and, most importantly, it’s a place where you can truly unwind. It ticked all the boxes for me. The staff were friendly, attentive (without being overbearing), and the whole place just felt good.
My Chaotic, Unsolicited Offer:
Tired of the same old hotel experience? Yearning for a Sydney escape that's both relaxing and invigorating? Book your stay at The Select Inn Penrith today!
For a limited time, when you book directly through their website (insert website link here!), you'll receive:
- Complimentary upgrade* (subject to availability!)
- Discounted spa package
- A bottle of prosecco upon arrival
Why wait? Escape the ordinary and discover The Select Inn – Sydney’s Best-Kept Secret. Book Your Penrith Adventure Now!
Escape to LaForesta: Mahabaleshwar's Unforgettable Getaway
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, sterile itinerary. This is… my attempt at a Sydney adventure, centered around the glorious Select Inn in Penrith. Prepare for the rollercoaster!
The "Slightly Over-Optimistic" Penrith Pilgrimage: A Messy, Mostly-Realistic Schedule
Day 1: Arrival & Immediate Regret…Then Pizza (and Maybe Redemption?)
- 1:00 PM: Touchdown at Sydney Airport (SYD). Oh, the sheer, overwhelming beauty of jet lag. I swore this time I'd pack light and not become that person wrestling a suitcase the size of a small car. I failed. Instantly. Luggage carousel purgatory. (Deep breaths, Sarah, deep breaths.)
- 2:30 PM: Train to Penrith. Found the train, relatively unscathed. The view was…Suburban. Honestly, that's a generous descriptor. This is where the "optimism" might start cracking.
- 3:30 PM: Check-in at The Select Inn. Okay, the Inn is…functional. Clean enough. The air conditioning is actually working, which is a small miracle. The floral bedspread could be a character in its own right. I'm already eyeing the vending machine.
- 4:00 PM: Immediate Regret Hits Hard. The room is functional but…not inspiring. I'm already questioning life choices. Did I really need to book a three-day stay in Penrith? What was I thinking?
- 5:00 PM: Salvation (Pizza Edition). Found a local pizza joint through a frantic Google search. This pizza is AMAZING. Like, seriously, a religious experience. The cheese…the sauce…the crust…I might have accidentally ordered a whole pizza for myself. Don't judge me. I need the carbs, I need the comfort, and I might need a therapist after this trip.
- 6:30 PM: Penrith Park Stroll (attempted). Fueled by pizza and a desperate need for fresh air. The park is nice-ish. Some kids are playing cricket. A dog almost tangled me in its leash. I miss my cat. I definitely need to learn the local lingo.
- 7:30 PM: Back to the Inn. TV Time. Channel surfing. The selection is limited. I'm slowly starting to accept the inevitability of early bedtime.
Day 2: Blue Mountains Blues (and Possibly, Blue Mountain Bliss)
- 7:00 AM: Morning Dread. I think I heard a truck backfire during the night. The jet lag has fully taken over. I might actually regret going out there.
- 7:30 AM: Breakfast Disaster. The Inn's continental breakfast is…sparse. I'm talking cardboard toast and instant coffee. I'm already plotting an escape to a proper cafe.
- 8:00 AM: Train to Blue Mountains. Another train ride. At least the scenery changes. The prospect of seeing the Three Sisters is the only thing keeping me going.
- 9:30 AM: Katoomba Arrival. Oh my god, it’s breathtaking! The sheer scale of the mountains just…stops you. The air is crisp and pine-scented. The three sisters are beautiful. You think you know the mountains, but you don't know the mountains, it's like trying to fit your feet into a shoe 3 size too small. The crowds. The crowds are a beast.
- 10:30 AM: Scenic World (and the Edge of Sanity). The cable car ride is…terrifying in the best way. The views are insane. I screamed a little (okay, a lot). The Skyway is a glass-bottomed gondola… I'm usually fine with this sort of thing, but my stomach did a little flip-flop. At least there's a gift shop! (I need a souvenir to prove I survived).
- 12:30 PM: Echo Point & Three Sisters. Crowded, crowded, crowded! But the views…utterly worth it. I finally got a decent photo (after battling several selfie-stick-wielding tourists). The ancient stories behind the Blue Mountains were fascinating..
- 1:30 PM: Lunch in Katoomba. Found a cute little cafe with a decent coffee. And my stomach feels like a cat is doing cartwheels inside.
- 2:30 PM: Scenic Railway – The Ultimate Thrill (and Slight Panic). Oh. My. Goodness. This is the steepest passenger railway in the world. You're basically going down a cliff face at a ridiculous angle. I may have screamed more than on the cable car. I'm pretty sure some of my hair went white. This is the part of the trip I will never forget.
- 4:30 PM: Return to Penrith. The train ride back is a blur of exhaustion and adrenaline. I'm mostly just sitting silently, processing.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at…the Pizza Place (Again). Yes, I’m a creature of habit. And their pizza is just THAT good. I'm starting to consider moving to Penrith.
- 7:30 PM: Early Bedtime. I'm officially beat. I'm also starting to think The Select Inn is…growing on me. (The air conditioning, you know?)
Day 3: Sydney Exploration (Maybe) & The Glorious Return
- 8:00 AM: More Inn Breakfast (with Gritted Teeth). Another encounter with the cardboard toast. I'm starting to suspect it's a conspiracy.
- 9:00 AM: Sydney City? This is the day I'm supposed to venture into Sydney proper. I'm contemplating the train fare. I'm also still contemplating the amazing pizza
- 9:30 PM: The Pizza Place. You guys, I went back. I couldn't help myself. The owner gave me a look like he thought I was a stalker, but he winked and took my order.
- 10:00 AM: Decision Time. The sun is shinning, but Sydney is far. The pizza is delicious. The bed is comfy. I think I'm going to call it a day.
- 10:30 AM: The Select Inn Comfort. I found a comfy corner in the room and watched some tv. I think i'm going to explore the area around the hotel.
- 1:00 PM: Exploring Penrith. I wandered around, I found some other good places to eat. I went for a walk in the park and sat there to contemplate my life choices.
- 3:00 PM: More Dinner. I saw a place selling Chicken Wings, and I had to see what they were about. I had to order them.
- 4:30 PM: Packing It's never as easy as it should be.
- 6:00 PM: Final Pizza Place Visit. One last slice of heaven before I go.
- 8:00 PM: Departure. Train to the airport. Goodbye Penrith. Hello, real world (and real food, hopefully).
Final Thoughts (and Deep, Soul-Searching Questions):
What even was this trip? A pizza-fueled odyssey? A quest for air conditioning? A lesson in the subtle joys of suburban life? Honestly, I'm still figuring it out. But one thing's for sure: I'll never forget the amazing pizza, the terrifying Scenic Railway, and the quiet charm of The Select Inn. And maybe, just maybe, Penrith wasn't so bad after all. Okay, maybe. It was mostly bad, but I still had fun. I hope. I definitely got some good food, and that's what is the most important. I can't guarantee I'll be back, but hey, you never know…pizza is a powerful motivator.
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Penrith's Hidden Gem: The Select Inn - Sydney's (Maybe) Best-Kept Secret! - FAQs (with a healthy dose of my opinion!)
Alright, alright... What *is* The Select Inn, anyway? Is it actually a secret?
Okay, so “secret” is probably stretching it a *little* bit. It’s not like some locked-vault speakeasy. But it *is* easily overlooked. The Select Inn, the last time I checked, is a classic, almost old-school pub/hotel situation nestled in Penrith. Think hearty pub fare, a decent selection of beers (though I'm a cider girl, myself!), and rooms upstairs.
And yeah, it's in Penrith. Which, let's be honest, isn't exactly the first place someone thinks of for a weekend getaway from Sydney. But trust me, that's kinda the point. It's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it kinda place with a real, unpretentious vibe.
The Rooms? Spill the Tea! Are we talking luxury or… uh… 'character'?
Character! That's a *kind* way of putting it. Look, don't expect marble bathrooms and a pillow menu. The rooms at The Select Inn are… serviceable. Practical? Let's go with practical. Clean, relatively quiet (depending on what's happening downstairs!), and they absolutely get the job done.
I remember one time, I stayed there after a particularly disastrous "girls night out" – let's just say, lots of cocktails and questionable karaoke choices. I stumbled in around 3 AM, and honestly, the simple, slightly faded room felt like a freaking sanctuary. No frills, no fancy nonsense. Just a bed, a shower, and a sweet, sweet moment of blissful sleep. So, yeah, it’s not the Ritz, but it’s got a certain charm, especially when you're a little worse for wear, trust me. They’re clean, and that's a big plus.
Okay, Pub Food. Tell me about the food, the *vibe*. Am I going to be battling hordes of rowdy blokes for a parma?
The food is classic pub fare, and that's a good thing! Think hearty, comfort food – think schnitzels, maybe a roast on Sundays, steaks, loaded fries… You get the picture. It's not Michelin-star stuff, but it's solid, satisfying, and seriously good value.
And the vibe? It's definitely not hipster central. It's the kind of place where you see families, tradies after work, mates catching up for a beer… It's real. I've spent many an hour there, nursing a pint of cider (yes, they have it!) and watching the world go by. One time, I saw a full on soccer final on the big screen, and everyone was so into it, chanting and yelling… It was amazing! No pretentious vibes, just good times. Yeah, you might encounter a few rowdy blokes, but it's all part of the experience. It's part of the charm, actually. (As long as they're not *too* rowdy, of course!)
Penrith! What's there to *do*, beyond the Inn itself? Should I pack a book and resign myself to boredom?
Okay, Penrith. It's not exactly the cultural capital of the world. (Sorry, Penrith!) But! Surprisingly, there's stuff to do! The Select Inn is perfectly placed to explore. The Penrith Panthers are nearby, if you're into Rugby League (which, I’m slowly warming up to – thanks, Select Inn!). The Nepean River is close, which is beautiful, especially on a sunny day, where you can walk (or cycle), enjoy a picnic. There are a few local shops and cafes around. Western Sydney University is also there.
Look, if you're expecting a whirlwind of excitement, you might be disappointed. But if you're looking for a chill weekend, some good food and a relaxed vibe, it's all perfectly enjoyable. And honestly, sometimes, that's *exactly* what you need! Plus, it’s so darn easy to get to from the city by train. And if all else fails, there's always a cosy corner in the pub, a good book (yes, *definitely* bring a book!), and a pint of something cold… I’ve done it. Repeatedly. No regrets.
Is it good for a solo trip? A romantic getaway? A family adventure?
Solo trip: Absolutely! It's a great place to escape, read, and just be. The staff are friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. I've gone solo many times and never felt out of place.
Romantic getaway: Hmm... That depends on your relationship. If you're looking for ultra-romance, maybe not. But if you want something low-key, relaxed, and a bit quirky, then yeah, it can work. Just manage your expectations. Think cosy pub meals, a chat over a beer, and maybe snuggling in bed.
Family Adventure: I think it is yes. It's family-friendly, the menu should have everyone covered, and rooms are spacious for putting together a rollaway bed and a crib. Also, it's a short drive from Featherdale Wildlife Park. I'm pretty sure kids would have fun there.
What's the best way to experience The Select Inn? Any insider tips?
Okay, here's the gospel, straight from a seasoned Select Inn enthusiast:
* Book a room! They fill up, especially on weekends. No last-minute surprises.
* Embrace the pub. Don't just hole up in your room! Go downstairs, soak up the atmosphere, have a chat with the staff. They're genuinely friendly.
* Try the schnitzel. Apparently it's a staple, and for good reason.
* Don't expect perfection. It's not the Four Seasons. But that's part of its charm. Go with the flow, and enjoy the experience!
* Bring earplugs, just in case. Especially if you're a light sleeper and there's a live band playing. (Which is often the case!) I learned that the hard way, after one particularly loud and proud karaoke night!
* Don't go expecting glamour. Go for the authentic, the unpretentious, and the affordable. That's where the real fun is.
Okay, You've Sold Me. But, Like.. What's The Catch?
Alright, alright, enough with the rose-tinted glasses! Look, The Select Inn isn't perfect. And honestly? If I start rambling more about how great it is, my friends will never let me live it down. They will say "Oh no not again" for literally eternity, when I mention The Select InnComfort Zone Inn
