Sydney’s floating winter lounge has firepits and Biscoff fondue

Because winter tastes better by the water.

A new pop-up is making waves on Sydney Harbour, and it’s bringing the heat. This floating winter lounge comes complete with crackling firepits, faux fur throws and what might just be the city’s most decadent dessert: a Biscoff fondue designed for dunking by candlelight.

Après on the Harbour is the perfect winter outing. (Image: Pier One Sydney Harbour)

The seasonal experience, dubbed Après on the Harbour, is the latest offering from luxury waterfront hotel Pier One Sydney Harbour. Their private pontoon has been transformed into a snug, alpine-style escape, only with better views (hello Harbour Bridge).

Running through winter, the experience invites groups to settle into cabanas on the water, sip winter reds and graze on a menu built for chilly nights. Start with baked camembert with truffle and served with a warm baguette, then tuck into comforting dishes like slow-cooked wagyu ragu orecchiette pasta or cheese and truffle jaffles that practically beg to be eaten by firelight.

Try the cheese and truffle jaffles. (Image: Pier One Sydney Harbour)

Of course, it’s the dessert that’s getting all the buzz. The Biscoff fondue is served bubbling in a miniature pot over a tealight and comes with marshmallows, strawberries and pretzels for dipping. It’s rich, gooey and dangerously good… and yes, it’s perfect for the ’gram.

The experience runs daily until the end of August, from 12 pm to 11 pm, and is designed for groups of four to 14. A minimum spend applies, but if you’re splitting the bill between mates (and planning a birthday or winter catch-up), it’s worth every toasty, chocolate-covered bite.

The Biscoff fondue is the showstopper. (Image: Pier One Sydney Harbour)

With glowing fairy lights, cosy couches and unobstructed views of Sydney’s sparkling skyline, Après on the Harbour offers a little slice of winter magic, minus the ski gear.

Bookings are essential, and spots are filling fast. Because this is one pop-up that floats its own boat.

The baked camembert is to-die-for. (Image: Pier One Sydney Harbour)