I imagine this is what it is like to live in an eagle’s nest, high above the world with a hotel room view that stretches as far as the eye can see from a stay at Sofitel Darling Harbour and which is right next door to the International Convention Centre (ICC).
Except my ‘nest’ is the crisp white sheets of a Sofitel MyBed enclosed by a phalanx of floor-to-ceiling windows. I’m staying in the Sofitel Darling Harbour which opened its doors in 2017, making it the first new-build, international luxury hotel to open in Sydney’s CBD this millennium.
Stay at Sofitel Darling Harbour
Centrally located opposite the International Convention Centre, the $500M building plays a major role in the revitalisation of the Darling Harbour precinct. It also heralds the renaissance of new hotel development in Sydney, with over 40 hotels scheduled to open in the next five years. My room is only halfway up the 43-story building but 2509 has an enviable corner position that offers a seductive Sydney landscape.
Of course, not everyone wants to have their room open to the world all the time. So you can block out those prying eyes, there are drop-down blinds on all windows. There’s a narrowish but long desk under the television which, thankfully does not directly look out on the absorbing view. The room is fitted with up to date technology to control the air conditioning and lights with a few simple buttons. No running around this room late at night trying to work out how to turn off the lights or change the temperature.
The bathroom
A luxurious experience with so much wow factor is the only way to describe this room. Separated by a sliding glass door, the bathroom has a large white bath perfectly positioned to take in the view. If that wasn’t tempting enough, it comes complete with a bath caddy kitted out with a sponge and plenty of products. All you need is a glass of wine and a good book.
There are not many places where you can relax in the bath while watching a helicopter land on a distant rooftop amid twinkling city lights.If you are feeling particularly indulgent, you can order a detox green seaweed bath fizz, which has an intoxicating ginger lily perfume. Rather indulge in a vitamin caviar bath? They have that sorted too. You can even pretend you are in the Dead Sea and float away your tired muscles. The large vanity has a backlit mirror and plenty of bench space. A high-powered hair dryer completes my wish list. Clever design has put the shower, with dual shower heads, on an inside wall for privacy and a curtain hides the toilet from outside view even if you decide to have the blinds open.
There’s a Nespresso machine if you can’t be bothered walking downstairs to find a coffee and enjoy a Darling Harbour view at closer quarters.
Where is Sofitel Darling Harbour?
Located in Darling Harbour, adjacent to the new International Convention Centre Sydney and just a short walk from the shopping areas, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is a 5-star hotel. The 590 rooms and suites combine French elegance and contemporary design, with breathtaking views of the Harbour. The hotel also features three bars, a restaurant, a club lounge and an outdoor pool.
Expect to pay from$435 per night for a stay here.
For more information on the hotel visit the Sofitel Darling Harbour.
Where else to stay in Sydney?
I’d suggest the Tank Stream near Circular Quay
Where to stay in Brisbane
Thinking about staying in Brisbane? Check this list to find the perfect hotel to match your personality.
Disclaimer: Ed+bK stayed at Sofitel Darling Harbour as a guest of Accor Hotels to attend the 2018 TravMedia International Media Marketplace.
