I stayed at Squid Ink Hotel for 5 days while travelling for work, and it turned out to be a perfect blend of business and relaxation. The highlight was definitely the stunning view of the lake—visible both from the room and the restaurant. Waking up to that peaceful scenery made each day feel like a retreat. The in-house restaurant is top quality, offering not just great food but also a calm, scenic setting to unwind after a long day.

Some aspects of the property could use attention. The facilities feel a bit dated, and the bathrooms in particular are in need of a revamp. On stormy days, water even seeped in under the doors, which was a bit inconvenient.

I liked the facility of having a lift to the second floor. I had a hot chocolate from the bar at the restaurant which you can't do at any other motel that I have stayed at all over Australia. The room was clean and fresh, the bed was comfortable, the shower was hot, and the air conditioning was great (because it was very cold outside). Even though the Motel is next to a major road I never heard the traffic. I never heard any noise from the rooms next door and never heard any noise from anybody having a shower or flushing the toilet. The view of the lake at the back of the motel was very picturesque.

Car parking. Arrived back from dinner (9.30pm) and there was no car parking space available. Had to park away from the Motel, which I didn't like.

Stayed with my 2 young granddaughters and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The room was very clean, beds very comfortable, bathroom was very good also, strong shower, and very clean. Having the restaurant next door was very handy which we used for breakfast and the food was delicious and service from good. Only a short walk to Belmont shopping centre. I would definitely stay here again. Thank you Squid Ink.

Our information sheet stated that our room would be serviced each second day but on the 5th day I had to ask for room service as it had not been done at all. I had asked for new towels on 3rd day and they were left on our beds but soiled towels not removed unfortunately. If Squid Ink could improve this area it would be a perfect place to stay, but again I will say that I would DEFINITELY stay here again if in the area.

Clean, comfortable motel. The real gem though is the view out over the lake at dusk! Stunning. Go to the restaurant for dinner. It's popular as the view from the deck is amazing. Food was good and staff were attentive. Note the hotel rooms, half are upstairs requiring carrying luggage up an exterior stair case. This may make it unsuitable for elderly guests. Im sure the motel owners would try to be helpful with bottom floor rooms if you let them know.

Showing signs of wear in various parts but overall the upkeep is done well and it is clean so this is only a minor issue. Would be happy to stay there again.

Room size was decent and the small kitchen was handy for making our own breakfast and tea/coffee. Adequately stocked with crockery and cutlery. Bathroom was a nice size and nice shower heads. Also had a large TV and iron. Can slightly hear the road but nothing major. Air conditioning worked well. Lift was good if staying on the upper floor.

As the bathroom had a glass wall, the window let in allot of light in the morning. Would be better if had a blind installed for blockout. Maybe installing a full size mirror would be helpful too.

The back of the hotel is nice setting on the lake’s edge. Next to a nice restaurant and bar Modern renovated shower/bathroom 10min walk or bus to major shopping centre Comfy bed & big screen TV

I could hear the road noise at night from the “Courtyard View” room (although not as bad as some other hotels on the main road because at least Squids is set back a bit). I don’t think you could hear road noise from a “Lake View” / “Water View” room though as those rooms are behind the “courtyard rooms” - it’s choice to pay less or more.

Comfortable, clean, affordable, great location. Wonderful outdoor area by the lake with bbq area.

Would’ve loved to purchase a drink from the bay and enjoy it outside by the lake in the outdoor area, however the guy at the bar refused to serve us stating “I can’t serve you because you’re sitting on the motel side, not the restaurant side”. We were later informed by reception staff that this should not have been the case and that motel guests are welcome to order drinks and food to be enjoyed in the outdoor area. Was just a little confusing and disappointing to an otherwise wonderful stay.

When I arrived after booking online I was really pleased with the location, the view was amazing! (Courtyard). There was also a restaurant next door and because I turned up late (thanks to reception for waiting for me to arrive) I was able to get a small bite and drink, the kitchen had closed. Beautiful location

I'm not sure the bedding/pillows were clean. There was an odd smell to one of the pillows and one side of the.bed (may have been the floor from moisture possibly). Overall, clean and comfortable though

We have stayed here a few times before and will return. You can't beat the location right on the lake and the value for money. There is an excellent restaurant on site. Rooms are simple and basic but clean. Exceptionally good water pressure in the shower. Beds and pillows are comfortable. This time we stayed in the water view rooms (we usually just stay in the cheaper rooms). The water view rooms are quieter so if you are a light sleeper you may prefer these. It was nice to sit on the chair outside our room and have a coffee and gaze at the lake. Don't expect 5 stars at this price. But if you want a simple clean room in a stellar location you can't go wrong.

Was a little noisy one night due to a wedding on in the restaurant. But it finished around 10.30 or 11pm and was quiet after that. No housekeeping during the stay but that didn't bother me either.

Clean, comfortable room. Clean bathroom. Very helpful and friendly staff. Lift available to access upstairs rooms. Very pleasant location beside Lake Macquarie.

Our room faced the highway so a lot of traffic noise. If staying again would pay extra for room on other side of building facing the lake. Spa bath, which we didn't need, took a lot of space, leaving small area for shower, toilet and small vanity. Very little space for toiletries, etc.