Escape to This Luxury, French-Inspired Retreat in the Heart of the City

We’ve partnered with Sofitel Sydney Wentworth for a look inside one of Sydney’s most luxurious and relaxing hotels.

A sojourn to Europe to experience timeless style and sophistication is an undeniable right of passage for every Australian traveller. But for those who want to stay a little closer to home - perhaps for a romantic weekend staycation - there’s a place in the city centre that combines refined luxury with rich heritage.

Standing as the city’s inaugural five-star hotel, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth brings a distinctly Parisian je ne sais quoi to the middle of Sydney’s bustling CBD. Nestled next to prestigious luxury boutiques and fine dining, the hotel is also just steps away from some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. 

Enveloping guests in the quintessence of French luxury, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth blends French elegance and traditions with refined comfort. From the impressive architecture (the heritage-protected building is actually the largest curved single-brick structure in the Southern Hemisphere) to beautifully designed spaces, inspired cuisine, and plenty of opportunities for pampering, here’s why it’s on the top of our must-stay list.

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth embraces the French art de vivre, with finishing touches and subtle details adding sophistication to every stay. 

The journey begins in the lobby, where attentive and dedicated concierges greet guests with a friendly “bonjour”. Decorated with exquisite botanical displays inspired by the Jardin à la Française at Chateau de Versailles, the subtle scent of the hotel’s specially selected perfume, created by L’Artisan Parfumeur, also floats through the hotel entrance, immediately transporting guests to a place of relaxed and refined elegance. 

Each bathroom of the 426 luxury rooms and 45 opulent suites features marble floors and tiles for superior style and luxury and is stocked with bespoke Balmain Paris amenities. A unique design element, bathrooms are also curvilinear, with interior layouts mirroring the horseshoe shape of the hotel’s central courtyard.

Guests will also find beautifully designed spaces adorned with heritage-listed crystal chandeliers, sumptuous pillow menus for the perfect night’s sleep, and a savvy mélange of arts and culture thanks to a 20-year partnership with the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Of course, the hotel’s French heritage isn’t only reflected in the clever design: the lively Garden Court Restaurant serves up French-inspired cuisine crafted from Australia’s finest local produce. 

Executive Chef Bektaş Özcan takes guests on a magnificent discovery of French gastronomy in a sophisticated atmosphere overlooking a tranquil landscaped courtyard. Enjoy sustainably caught Char-grilled Prawns with a Café de Paris sauce or Tartare de Boeuf next to floor-to-ceiling windows high above the bustling city below.

If carefully crafted cocktails are more your style, embark on a journey of taste, elegance and luxury at the Soirée Bar. Perfect for a pre (or post) theatre performance sip, the French-inspired Espresso Martini infused with notes of creme brûlée is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palate.

Combine French elegance and modern luxury with Sofitel Sydney Wentworth’s Wine & Dine The French Way special offer. Starting from $355 for two people, receive a complimentary room upgrade, late check-out and Parisian buffet breakfast at Garden Court Restaurant, plus a $100 food and beverage voucher to use at the restaurant, Soirée Bar or in-room dining.

Book the offer here. Offer available until December 29, 2023. 

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is also hosting a Garden Party on November 7. An extraordinary opportunity to relish in French joie de vivre, delight your senses with a 3.5-hour event that merges Parisian heritage with the vibrant culture of Sydney. 

The package includes:

• A 3.5-hour beverage package that includes the finest Pommery Champagne and its pop-up bar, an exquisite variety of beers and wines, plus and exclusive Tanqueray Gin bar experience
• Gourmet roaming canapés, a fresh oyster bar, artisanal meat and cheeses and a culinary barbecue showcase
• Live entertainment with a DJ
• A chance to win exclusive prizes, including Best Hat/Fascinator in partnership with For Millinery. 

Book now for $120 per person. Additional discounts for groups of 10+.