Staying at the new Sofitel Darling Harbour was a beautiful way to have a break and explore our own city. I had high hopes and some reservations too. As the newest 5-star hotel in Sydney and with its stunning location I knew we’d be in for something special. But then I wondered if it would be too much of a business hotel being directly next to the International Convention Centre. But let me tell you, whether you’re coming for business, to relax or to explore the city, I think you’ll leave pretty satisfied.
Sofitel Darling Harbour Sydney Review Video
First Impressions
Walking into the new Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour (it only opened towards the end of last year), I was immediately happy with our choice of Sydney hotel. The lobby area is stunning with the beautiful interiors of the lobby bar. Let’s just say that I could definitely see those velvet green chairs in my future home. There are beautiful colours and a touch of gold wherever you look. Even the porter’s luggage trolleys look sparkling. The check-in area is welcoming.
But the one thing I loved about Sofitel Darling Harbour from the moment I walked in, is although they are a 5-star luxury hotel, there was none of the stuffiness that can sometimes be associated with that. Everyone was friendly and helpful, and although the service was lovely, there was no unnecessary fussing.
Location, Location, Location
Water views and a central location right in Darling Harbour makes the location of Sofitel Darling Harbour hard to beat. From here you can walk to The Star Casino, Chinatown, Sydney CBD, and of course, around Darling Harbour. We would be happy to walk to Circular Quay too but if you’re over walking or would rather save your energy, then you can always take a ferry, taxi or Uber. The nearest train station is Town Hall, which is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. The Convention Centre light rail station is 100 metres away from the L1 line. If you’re here for the International Convention Centre, then you can’t get a better location, it’s right next door.
The Room
We stayed in the Superior Room with Darling Harbour View. I have to say, I was pretty impressed with the room and the design was modern and consistent throughout. The bathroom felt quite large with a nice layout, including a bath which still had views of the city and double doors which opened up the bathroom to the room and made the room feel larger. The King Bed was super comfy, I don’t know what it is about hotel beds but they are always so much more dreamy than what you create at home. The little touches were fabulous, hello TWG tea and Nespresso machine. The amenities were also great, all the usuals, but they thought of everything.
But if there was one thing that I’ll never forget, it was those stunning views over Darling Harbour and the city. Often you can get a city view, sometimes a water view, but not always both, and that was pretty special. Beautiful during the day and night.
Other Sofitel Darling Harbour rooms include Superior Room, Luxury Room, Luxury Room with Darling Harbour View, a Club Millesime version of each along with a few different suites.
Beyond The Room
Being so close to the International Convention centre, I was a little concerned Sofitel Darling Harbour would be catering primarily to business travel. and although it does this well, I was pleasantly surprised because every aspect of the hotel made me feel more and more relaxed and I immediately got that holiday feeling. The lobby feels very fancy. They have a restaurant, Atelier by Sofitel which is a French-inspired grill. Then they have three bars, the lobby bar, the pool bar, and stunning Sofitel Darling Harbour Champagne Bar.
But perhaps the area that made me feel most on a holiday was the beautiful Sofitel Darling Harbour pool. The infinity pool overlooks Darling Harbour and Sydney City. It’s surrounded by extremely inviting lounge chairs and the pool bar with tables and chairs. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this space.
The gym is just next door to the pool, also overlooking Darling Harbour and Sydney City. But we did all our exercise exploring the city. I’m not sure if they are planning to open one in the future, but there was no onsite spa.
Almost Landing Loves
***
The Beautiful Pool Area
Incredible Darling Harbour Views
Soft + Dreamy Bed
The Details
Hotel: Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour
Room Type: Superior Room with Darling Harbour Views
Room Number: 2117
Location: 12 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour, Sydney.
Parking: Valet is available for $79 AUD per car per day or adjacent car parks are available at Wilson Darling Harbour Car Park or ICC Car Park.
Price: Check Prices Here
Read More:
When’s The Best Time To Visit Sydney?