The location
Nestled in the heart of the CBD, the Sofitel is in easy reach of Sydney's greatest hits, including the Quay which is a five minute walk.
The space
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth – the city's most enduring five-star international hotel.
Growing old gracefully, the Sofitel is a classic old-fashioned five-star hotel. Celebrating its 50th birthday during my stay, the hotel was Sydney's first hotel of this calibre and hosted dignitaries such as the Queen, Prince Charles and Princess Diana. It was added to the Sofitel fold in 2002 and following a $60 million dollar refit, was relaunched in 2004.
It was and remains to be the largest single-brick structure in the southern hemisphere. Boasting a sophisticated French influence, the huge, horseshoe-shaped building houses 436 rooms, 45 of which are suites. The building is moulded around a large green semi-circular, immaculately-landscaped courtyard with Grecian patterns and hedging that would be perfectly at home in Europe.
Common areas include the Soiree bar adjacent the lobby, a French-themed menu hosting generously proportioned lunches and decadent high teas during the day. Other options include the huge Garden Court Restaurant (which overlooks the courtyard). Room service is available 24 hours daily. Downstairs there's a small but well-appointed external gym available for guests to use.
The room
The rooms at the Sofitel epitomise old-fashioned European comfort and style. Blissfully quiet, the spacious room features a large, king-size bed, plenty of storage space, with modern flourishes such as charging stations, plus a classic mini-bar. The one of a kind bathroom has a unique circular design and was built to mirror the shape of the courtyard, with marble floors and tiles, and is well-equipped, not skimping on items such as toiletries.
The food
Covering all bases, breakfast at the Sofitel should not be missed. Choose from delicious on-point mini donuts with an oozy salted caramel filling; pots of homemade yoghurt, skim or fruit-flavoured; made-to-order eggs, cheesy omelettes; barista-made coffee, plus a selection of homemade jams, congee and dumplings. In the afternoon, you can spoil yourself with a French-style champagne high tea at the Soiree.
The verdict
For location, comfort and unpretentious style, the Sofitel cannot be beat.
Highlights
The rooms are a quiet sanctuary, high on comfort and space – a rarity for Sydney.
Lowlights
This is a five-star hotel, however, the service, although far from bad, is definitely not five star.
Essentials
61-101 Phillip Street, Sydney NSW 2000; (02) 9228 9188, sofitelsydney.com.au
Rates start at $250 per night.
The writer was a guest of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.
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