Hotel review: The ultimate business stay at Four Seasons Sydney
- October 7, 2024
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For business travellers visiting Sydney, the Four Seasons Sydney offers an exceptional blend of luxury, convenience, and world-class service, writes Harmeet Sehgal
Overlooking the stunning Sydney Harbour, this hotel caters to the needs of corporate and leisure guests with amenities that are designed to enhance both productivity and relaxation. Originally opened in 1982 as The Regent Sydney, the property came under the management of Four Seasons in 1992 and was officially rebranded as a Four Seasons hotel in 2002.
Check in to one of the most prime locations in Sydney
Located in the heart of Circular Quay, the Four Seasons Sydney offers unmatched proximity to Sydney’s business and financial districts, along with iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. This prime location ensures business travellers can easily attend meetings and conferences while also enjoying the city’s vibrant dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
Luxury hotels today understand the importance of delivering a VIP experience, but the true mark of excellence is when the entire team delivers seamless recognition and service. My check-in experience at the Four Seasons Sydney was no exception. The concierge team swiftly secured my baggage as I entered the grand lobby, surrounded by a sense of opulence.
The hotel’s front office manager promptly introduced himself, starting a conversation that put me at ease. “We’ve been expecting you, Mr. Sehgal,” he said, as the check-in formalities were handled with remarkable efficiency. His warm distraction allowed me to take in the beautifully appointed lobby, with its elegant design and the famous Grand Staircase, which has welcomed numerous dignitaries and celebrities over the years. The check-in process was quick, and he offered to escort me to my suite, enhancing the overall experience with a touch of personal care and attention.
The Full Harbour Club Suite: A jewel in the crown
For business travellers who seek both style and functionality, the Full Harbour Club Suite at Four Seasons Sydney offers the ultimate accommodation. With sweeping panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge, this suite provides not only a luxurious space but also a serene, private environment to unwind after a busy day of business schedules.
The Full Harbour Club Suite stands out as one of the largest in its class among Sydney’s luxury hotels, spanning an impressive 570 square feet. The suite is a perfect blend of modern elegance and comfort, with a spacious living area designed for both work and relaxation. The functional layout includes a dedicated workspace with a well-lit desk, high-speed internet, and ergonomic seating, ensuring a comfortable setting for business tasks. Conveniently placed power outlets and USB ports ensure you can stay connected and productive at all times.
A plush king-sized bed, dressed in high-thread-count linens, guarantees a restful night’s sleep—crucial for business travellers with demanding schedules that often involve early starts and late finishes. The suite’s large marble bathroom, featuring a deep soaking tub and a walk-in shower, offers an oasis of relaxation. With luxurious toiletries and soft bathrobes, it’s the perfect spot to refresh after a long, hectic day.
Positioned as corner suites, the Full Harbour Club Suites boast some of the best views of what is arguably the world’s most stunning harbour. Angled windows frame breathtaking vistas of the Sydney Harbour and Opera House, making it a dream for anyone who appreciates beautiful scenery.
A sleek lounger, strategically placed near the window, offers a cozy vantage point where you can unwind while gazing at the bustling harbour below. As evening sets in, the suite transforms into an even more magical space—dim the room lights, and you’ll witness the glowing harbour in all its glory. My inner photographer couldn’t resist capturing this spectacle, which felt like floating above the shimmering waterways.
Beyond the room’s luxurious comforts, the Full Harbour Club Suite offers a range of exclusive services that enhance the overall experience. From 24-hour room service and laundry to an in-room Nespresso machine, every detail is designed to provide convenience.
Additionally, the room includes a generously stocked daily mini-bar, catering to the needs of those working late hours or simply looking for a touch of indulgence during their stay.
This combination of thoughtful amenities and luxurious design includes artwork from Anna-Wili Highfield that tastefully adds to the chic decor making the Full Harbour Club Suite an exceptional choice for business travellers seeking both comfort and efficiency.
Lounge 32: Your exclusive retreat
Guests staying in the Full Harbour Club Suite enjoy access to the exclusive Lounge 32, a refined space tailored for both relaxation and business. Perched on one of the highest floors, the lounge offers breathtaking views of the Sydney skyline and harbour, creating a perfect setting for informal meetings or a quiet spot to work.
Lounge 32 epitomizes luxury and discretion, where the hotel’s leadership team engages with guests to ensure a seamless stay. It fosters a sense of exclusivity, with personalized attention for special requests and valuable insider tips on city happenings.
Guests can enjoy daily complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails with hors d’oeuvres—an ideal way for business travellers to start the day or unwind after work. The spread includes fresh fruits, pastries, and made-to-order hot dishes, ensuring a healthy and satisfying start.
With its peaceful ambiance, comfortable seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, and dedicated workspaces, Lounge 32 is the perfect venue for preparing for presentations or networking over evening drinks. The personalized concierge services ensure that any requests—whether printing documents, booking transport, or dining reservations—are handled swiftly and efficiently.
Grain Bar: A top spot for whisky enthusiasts
Grain Bar provides a sophisticated spot to kickstart your evening in Sydney. Located on the ground floor of the hotel, this chic bar is known for its extensive selection of spirits, craft cocktails, and premium Australian wines. The bar’s modern design, featuring rich wooden tones and ambient lighting, and high ceiling creates a warm and inviting space for solo relaxation or entertaining guests.
Grain Bar is particularly popular for its curated whisky collection, which includes both local and international varieties. The talented bartenders are more than happy to guide you through their extensive menu, helping you select the perfect drink to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a classic old-fashioned or something more innovative, Grain Bar’s mixologists deliver top-quality creations.
The bar also offers a well-rounded food menu, featuring small plates and mains that are perfect for a casual dinner or light bite.
The locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes reflect Sydney’s dynamic food scene, making Grain Bar a great spot for entertaining clients or colleagues in a more relaxed setting.
Mode Bar & Kitchen
Mode Kitchen & Bar offers a refined yet approachable dining experience, blending modern Australian cuisine with sharp, elegant service. Known for its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce, Mode Kitchen & Bar presents a menu that is both creative and comforting, appealing. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Francesco Mannelli, Mode Kitchen & Bar’s menu celebrates the best of Australian cuisine.
The menu features a range of options, from fresh seafood such as oysters and prawns to succulent steaks and innovative vegetarian dishes. Must tries at Mode Bar & Kitchen are the Blackmore Tartare with smoked bone marrow and Dry-aged Duck Breast.
The extensive wine list showcases a variety of premium Australian and international wines, selected to complement the diverse flavours of the menu. Mode also offers a private dining area, ideal for hosting business gatherings or small events in a more secluded space, while still enjoying the excellent cuisine and service that the restaurant is known for.
The hotel also features a 24-hour fitness center, perfect for maintaining your workout routine while on the road. For a more relaxing experience, the on-site spa offers a range of treatments to help you de-stress after a long day of work. The heated outdoor swimming pool is one of the largest heated outdoor pools in Sydney.
A Premium Business Experience
The Four Seasons Sydney is a premier destination for business travellers who seek luxury, convenience, and top-notch personalised service. The service ethic of the Four Seasons brand recognises guests’ patronage and makes you feel valued ensuring your stay is comfortable.
The hotel delivers a well-rounded, luxury experience that balances productivity with relaxation. Whether you’re in Sydney for a quick meeting or an extended business trip, Four Seasons Sydney ensures that your stay will be both comfortable and highly productive, making it the ideal choice for business and leisure travellers.
