The Shangri-La, Sydney

It stands sentinel over one of the most spectacular harbours in the world, and the Shangri-La Hotel in Sydney is a luxury boutique hotel that seduces even the most hardened traveller. Located in The Rocks district of the CBD, this property encapsulates the essence of Sydney Harbour with fantastic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from pretty much every room and is the perfect hotel for a romantic getaway. It can be a surreal experience with some of Australia’s iconic landmarks stretching right in front, and while the view is the major drawcard at the Shangri-La, it’s not all about majestic panoramas. This is a five star hotel with experienced and attentive staff who are focussed on delivering quality service.

The Rooms:

The 563 rooms and suites all have classic Sydney Harbour or Darling Harbour views and range in size from a generous 40 square metres to an outrageous 242 square metres in the Royal Suite. Most of the rooms and suites were renovated in October 2011 to be fitted with contemporary and luxurious furnishings along with padded window seating so you can sit and look out over the Harbour. They were also fitted with iPod docking stations, bluetooth media hub and were given a classic but modern finish with custom designed furniture and carpets, and oversized beds with plush duvets. Many guests never leave their room and let room service take care of their needs. We had room 2612, an Executive Grand Harbour King Room, and from here you can see both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House in full view and this could well be the best place to watch the famous Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Dining:

The Lobby Lounge is the casual venue which does great coffee, light snacks and cocktails, while Café Mix on level one produces international cuisine and classic desserts, along with a sumptuous buffet breakfast. But the pride and joy of the Shangri-La Sydney is Altitude, a restaurant on Level 36 with arguably the best views in Sydney with its floor-to-ceiling windows and classic contemporary Australia cuisine by executive chef Steven Krasicki.

Other Facilities:

The Health Club has a fully equipped and modern gym, indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and sun deck and now also has a new world class spa. CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La is a serene space with a range of treatments designed to indulge and revive. There’s also a fully equipped business centre for those who can’t escape work and within the hotel complex there’s a florist, foreign exchange, a gift shop, a hair and beauty salon and a pastry shop. But the crowning glory is the Blu Bar on 36 - an über chic cocktail venue which has to be seen to be believed. This is where you can watch a Sydney sunset turn to twinkling lights that stretch as far as the eye can see, while you sip a cocktail cocktail or fine wine.

The Verdict:

There’s a genuine “wow” factor that comes from the fact this hotel has one of the most stunning locations in Australia. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or need somewhere fantastic while you do business, it’s a sophisticated place that few people ever forget.