On a recent trip to Sydney I was able to splurge and booked the Four Seasons Sydney. Located right in downtown Sydney it's the perfect walking distance from all the major attractions and puts it in the perfect location to hit the highlights around Sydney. Both the Harbor Bridge and Opera House are within easy walking distance and it's in a convenient location to catch a ferry from the wharf or hop on the light rail train to get around town.
Location
The Four Seasons enjoys a prime location on the main strip of Circular Quay, overlooking the spectacular Sydney Harbour. Its proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Museum of Contemporary Art makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. The hotel is also a stone's throw away from transport hubs, with ferries, trains, and buses departing regularly from across the road.
Rooms and Suites
I was fortunate to stay in a Partial Harbour King Room on the 20th floor. The space is modern and well appointed, the highlight of the room has to be the bench seat on the window making it easy to sit and enjoy the views of the city. It has a generous blackout shade, so like me if you arrive early in the morning from the United States you may need a nap to recharge then get up in the afternoon to enjoy the rest of the day and fight off jetlag.
The room was amply spacious and remarkably quiet, furnished with a king bed, window bench seating, ample storage space and an amenity cabinet stocked with a variety of glassware for the inbuilt minibar. The bathroom was of decent size, featuring a separate bath, shower, and a single vanity, complete with luxurious Christian Lacroix amenities.
Dining Experience
The dining experience at the Four Seasons Sydney was a mixed bag. I dined at the hotel's Mode Kitchen & Bar, which serves modern Australian fare. While the ambiance of the restaurant was enjoyable, I found the quality of the food to be somewhat underwhelming, especially considering the price.
The restaurant's menu, curated by Executive Chef Francesco Mannelli, attempts to bridge the gap between casual, comfort fare and fine dining. Unfortunately, the dishes I tried lacked the expected refinement and the portion sizes were so small it wasn't very filling.
Amenities and Services
The hotel boasts a 24-hour fitness center equipped with a wide range of modern equipment, offering city views through slanted floor-to-ceiling windows. The outdoor pool, surrounded by lounge chairs with cushioned seats and cabana-style awnings, was a refreshing retreat, albeit its proximity to the busy city railway line.
The Endota Spa on the third floor was a sanctuary of relaxation, offering a menu of facials, massages, and revitalising treatments. However, I found that the space was limited compared to some of Sydney's more expansive hotels, so it's essential to book your session in advance.
Moreover, the hotel's Executive Club on the 32nd floor offers a cozy retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the hotel lobby. The lounge provides a wonderful breakfast buffet and pre-dinner canapés, perfect after a day of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
While the Four Seasons Sydney offers a prime location, stunning views, and a range of amenities, there's room for improvement, particularly in the dining department. However, the hotel's commitment to providing a luxurious experience and excellent service cannot be overlooked. Despite the minor hiccups during my stay, I would still recommend the Four Seasons Sydney for anyone looking for a centrally-located luxury hotel in the heart of Australia's vibrant city.
