If you’ve taken a stroll around Sydney, it’s safe to say you’ve seen the sparkle Sofitel Darling Harbour embedded in the city’s famous skyline.
And while it’s hard not to admire the modern marvel from a distance, the stress-busting retreat hidden within is far more special.
Located between the walls of the 35 floors French hotel are a series of picturesque yet cozy suites and a marble-clad wellness area so peaceful you’ll literally feel the tension melt from your muscles as you step through the doors.
And much to the delight of weary Australians, the latter is currently offering the ultimate escape for burnt-out city workers and parents: a five-hour wellness journey.
The process starts at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM and takes you through four elements: exercise, care, nutrition and rest.
The little-known spa hideaway at Sofitel Darling Harbor is the perfect hideaway for weary city slickers looking for an escape. They are currently offering a five hour spa trip
The process starts at 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM and takes you through four elements: exercise, care, nutrition and rest.
Nestled within the walls of the 35-storey French hotel are a number of picturesque yet cozy suites and a marble-clad wellness area that is so peaceful you can literally feel the tension melt away from your muscles as you step through the door.
The movement is in your hands and you can choose between a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool, a Peloton spin class at the gym, or a yoga class.
That’s when the good things start.
The care portion of the experience lasts the longest at three hours. Your therapist will take you on a sensory journey that starts with a body polish and wrap with a blend of active plant ingredients, pure sun-dried clay and cold-pressed plant oils.
You can feel the tension and worries seeping from within as you enjoy a beautiful head massage while wrapped in a warm fluffy towel, giving the oils and clays time to penetrate.
A relaxing massage with the spa’s signature aromatherapy blend follows, before being taken to the tranquil spa area for a private lunch before the nutritional part of the day.
You’ll feel the tension and worries seeping from within as you enjoy a beautiful head massage while wrapped in a warm fluffy towel, giving the oils and clay time to soak in before you head out to enjoy the space (pictured). enjoy for lunch
A relaxing massage follows with the spa’s signature aromatherapy blend, before being taken to the tranquil spa area for a private lunch before the nutritional part of the day (beetroot and orange salad is pictured with roasted pistachio, vegan feta, rocket, pomegranate and syrup)
The light lunch will be put together by chef Sam Moor, with all options likely to be vegan and pure food for the soul.
Once this hour is up, return to your freshly refurbished, Japanese-inspired treatment room for an organic apple collagen facial that uses botanicals and gentle fruit enzymes to inject life back into the skin.
As you fly high in a state of pure serenity, complete the experience with the tranquility element of the journey: an inspiring guided meditation or mandala coloring as you reflect on the day.
Valet parking is included in the experience if you want to shoot back home after five hours of bliss.
However, if you’d rather end the day with a wonderful night’s sleep and some hearty soul food, there are a host of beautiful rooms on your doorstep. Our choice? The Junior Suite
This high-floor waterfront suite is simply breathtaking and features floor-to-ceiling windows, a plush king-size bed guaranteed to give you the best night’s sleep of your life, and little meticulous details like fitness kits hidden in every corner.
However, if you’d rather end the day with a wonderful night’s sleep and some hearty soul food, there are a host of beautiful rooms on your doorstep. Our choice? The Junior Suite.
This high-floor waterfront suite is simply breathtaking and features floor-to-ceiling windows, a plush king-size bed guaranteed to give you the best night’s sleep of your life, and little meticulous details like fitness kits hidden in every corner.
As an added bonus, this room offers access to the hotel’s famous Club Millesime, so you can treat yourself to some delicious snacks before later ordering from the very generous in-room dining menu.
As an added bonus, this room offers access to the hotel’s famous Club Millesime, so you can treat yourself to some delicious snacks before later ordering from the very generous in-room dining menu.
Once you have access, you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, afternoon tea (Le Gouter) from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and Apero Chic – afternoon drinks and canapes from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
The exclusive Club Millesime area on floor 35 is reserved for those staying on the higher floors and offers some of the most impressive views in the city.
Once you have access, you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, afternoon tea (Le Gouter) from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and Apero Chic – afternoon drinks and canapes from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
The club also offers private check-in and check-out, free internet, shower facilities, concierge services and shoe shine.
Visit the Sofitel Darling Harbor website for more information or to book here.
The wellness journey costs $850 Monday through Thursday and $900 Friday through Sunday.