If you’ve taken a walk around Sydney, it’s safe to say you’ve seen the glittering Sofitel Darling Harbor nestled into the city’s famous skyline.
And while it’s hard not to marvel at the modern marvel from afar, the relaxation center hidden inside is that much more special.
Located between the walls of the 35th floor french hotel are a set of quaint but cozy suites and a marble-clad wellness space so tranquil you can feel the tension literally melting from your muscles as you walk through the doors.
And to the delight of weary Australians, the latter currently offers the best escape for urban workers and their exhausted parents: a five-hour wellness trip.
The journey begins between 9 and 10 in the morning and takes you through four elements: movement, care, nutrition and rest.
The little-known spa at the Sofitel Darling Harbor is the perfect retreat for weary city folk looking for a getaway. They currently offer a five-hour spa trip
The journey begins between 9 and 10 in the morning and takes you through four elements: movement, care, nutrition and rest.
Within the walls of this 35-story French hotel are a collection of quaint but cozy suites and a marble-clad wellness space so tranquil you can feel the tension literally melting from your muscles as you walk through the doors.
The movement is in your hands and you can choose between a refreshing swim in the rooftop pool, a Peloton spin class in the gym, or a yoga class.
That’s when the good stuff begins.
The care portion of the experience is the longest at three hours. Your therapist will take you on a sensory journey that begins with a body polish and wrap with a blend of active botanicals, pure sun-dried clays, and cold-pressed plant oils.
You’ll feel tension and worries ooze from within you as you enjoy a beautiful head massage while wrapped in a warm, fuzzy towel, giving the oils and clay time to absorb.
You will then receive a relaxing massage using the spa’s signature aromatherapy blend, before you are taken to the tranquil spa space for a private lunch for the nutritional portion of the day.
You’ll feel tension and worries ooze from within you as you enjoy a beautiful head massage while wrapped in a warm, fuzzy towel, giving the oils and clay time to absorb before you head out to enjoy the space ( in the photo) for lunch.
A relaxing massage follows with the spa’s signature aromatherapy blend, before you are taken to the tranquil spa space for a private lunch for the nutritional portion of the day (pictured is beet and orange salad with roasted pistachio, feta cheese vegan, arugula, pomegranate and molasses)
The light lunch is curated by executive chef Sam Moor, with all options likely vegan and pure nutrition for the soul.
Once this hour is over, you’ll return to your freshly groomed Japanese-inspired treatment room for an organic apple collagen facial that uses botanicals and gentle fruit enzymes to bring skin back to life.
As you fly high in a state of pure serenity, you’ll end the experience with the relaxing element of the trip: an inspiring guided meditation or coloring in mandalas as you reflect on the day.
Valet parking is included in the experience if you want to return home after five hours of bliss.
However, if you’d rather end the day with a restful night’s sleep and some good soul food, you’ll find plenty of stunning rooms on your doorstep. Our choice? The Junior Suite
This high-floor oceanfront suite is simply stunning, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a luxurious king bed that guarantees the best sleep of your life, and meticulous little touches like exercise kits hidden in every corner.
However, if you’d rather end the day with a restful night’s sleep and some good soul food, you’ll find plenty of stunning rooms on your doorstep. Our choice? The Junior Suite.
This high-floor oceanfront suite is simply stunning, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a luxurious king bed that guarantees the best sleep of your life, and meticulous little touches like exercise kits hidden in every corner.
As an added bonus, this room includes access to the hotel’s famous Millesime Club so you can enjoy delicious refreshments before ordering from the generous in-room dining menu later.
As an added bonus, this room includes access to the hotel’s famous Club Millesime so you can enjoy delicious snacks before ordering from the generous in-room dining menu later.
Once you have access, you can enjoy the buffet breakfast, afternoon tea (Le Gouter) from 3pm to 5pm and Apero Chic (afternoon drinks and canapes) from 5.30pm to 7pm: 30 hours.
The exclusive Club Millesime space on level 35 is reserved for those staying on upper floors and boasts some of the most stunning views of the city.
Once you have access, you can enjoy the buffet breakfast, afternoon tea (Le Gouter) from 3pm to 5pm and Apero Chic – afternoon drinks and canapes from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. hours.
The club also offers private check-in/check-out, complimentary Internet, showers, concierge services and shoe shining.
For more information or to book, visit the Sofitel Darling Harbor website here.
The journey of well-being It costs $850 from Monday to Thursday and $900 from Friday to Sunday.