Review: Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney

Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney / One-bedroom Presidential Suite / Size: 107 square metres / Price: $4390 per night / Reviewed by: Richard Bunting / Details: fourseasons.com/sydney

Hotel

I have walked past Sydney’s Four Seasons Hotel on many occasions and can rarely help but glance inside to see what lies within one of the country’s most prestigious luxury hotels. Excitingly, I have now had the opportunity to experience the icon for myself. The building is a well-established part of the Sydney skyline, having opened in 1982 as The Regent. Ten years later, Four Seasons took over management rights and, in 2002, the rebrand was complete – Australia had its first Four Seasons Hotel. It remains the only Four Seasons in Australia today.

Earlier this year the hotel remodelled 517 of its guestrooms to a design that evokes tomorrow’s Sydney. The extensive makeover included a fresh, light palette with updated furniture and new amenities line – Christian Lacroix.d updated furniture and amenities.

Suite

At 107 square metres, the Presidential Suite has ample space with a large living area that includes a huge TV, Bluetooth connectivity, a luxurious couch and armchairs, a desk, and a small but entirely appropriate dining table.

The specially set-up tent, with a single king mattress and gift pack for our daughter, Emma, was a special touch. From the gift pack, the personalised bathrobe, etch-a-sketch and glow sticks were a particular hit.

The bedroom was enormous, and the extremely comfortable bed was dressed with enough pillows in which to lose yourself. Another large TV is fixed in the bedroom, however, with a large floor-to-ceiling window offering a view of Sydney Harbour – bridge included – you’re unlikely to use it.

The same spectacular views are available from the bathroom, another spacious area, complete with an oversized tub positioned next to the window.

Locale

Located in Circular Quay, the Four Seasons is ideally positioned for guests to experience the best of Sydney and its stunning harbour. Exceptional dining experiences are at your doorstop, whether you choose The Rocks, Circular Quay or beyond, while cultural awakenings await at the world-famous Sydney Opera House or the Sydney Theatre Company at Dawes Point. For active guests, a morning run could easily take you through the beautiful Botanical Gardens and Woolloomooloo. With the new tram system running along George Street, the retail areas of Pitt Street Mall and Town Hall will be just a few stops away.

Eat In

Its name an ode to the origins of many a relaxing drink, Grain Bar is a stylish lounge bar in which to stop and unwind. Treat yourself to a cocktail from the impressive list, curated by world-acclaimed barmen Cedric Mendoza.

Meanwhile, Mode Kitchen & Bar, open for lunch and dinner, is a hidden gem worth visiting even if you’re not a Four Seasons guest. Positioned towards the rear of the lobby, the restaurant offers a friendly and casual atmosphere, and the open kitchen adds a fabulous energy. I highly recommend the Mayura Station Wagyu rib-eye, a mouth-watering cut that I am still thinking about.

Special Touches

What we loved about our stay at the hotel was the service. The staff are friendly and willing to assist, but not too intrusive. The perfect mix. Additionally, staying in a suite at the Four Seasons includes exclusive access to Lounge 32. Here you can enjoy an afternoon drink and canapes, host a business meeting or enjoy a long, lingering breakfast to see you through the day.

*The magazine version of this review included images for the two-bedroom Presidential Suite