The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney is a self-proclaimed ‘elegant sanctuary’

A self-proclaimed ‘elegant sanctuary,’ Shangri La, Sydney offers viewing of the city’s iconic harbour bustle from a precious space of luxury – proving guests need not compromise centrality for comfort. Opened in 2003, the Shangri-La Hotel now boasts 565 rooms, uniquely all featuring distinctive Harbour views. Visitors have an array of accommodation options to select from, with the rooms comprising of 523 guestrooms and 38 suites.

Room and suites include five categories, including Deluxe, Executive, Premier, and Horizon Club. And for those seeking that extra bit of luxury, there are two signature suites: the Presidential Suite and the Royal Suite. The latter is ideal for musically inclined guests, who can sit at a grand piano while overlooking private views of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge.

The suites ooze sophistication in all aspects of living quarters, featuring spacious marble bathrooms with large soaking tubs, opulent dining rooms, and top-of-the-range Television and entertainment systems. However, luxury is spread thickly across all of the hotel’s room ranges – with Deluxe rooms offering views over famous Darling Harbour from the comfort of modern designs and furnishings. The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney, encompasses the promotion of accessible luxury, truly resonating with its claim as a sanctuary amongst metropolitan and business life.

The hotel’s sanctuary concept was, in fact, a focus in the architectural plans. The architect’s inspiration for the Horizon Club lounge’s design was originally a lighthouse, with the idea of symbolically guiding guests to the hotel. The lounge is illuminated by ‘a stunning brass and crystal LED chandelier’, suspending three giant rings weighing over 600kg and visible from along the Harbour foreshore. Although, the lounge itself should draw in guests alone. It boasts complimentary breakfasts, canapes, and cocktail hours. There is also a private boardroom available for those looking for a luxury business venue – with Harbour views, of course.

Guests will certainly not struggle for dining opportunities elsewhere in the hotel. Shangri-La’s in-house Altitude Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, brunch, high tea, and dinner – all set 36 levels above the harbour for breath-taking views. Chef de Cuisine Michele Menegazzi offers an eclectic culinary experience – offering a contemporary menu inspired by modern Australian grill and focusing on locally sourced, quality, organic produce.

Sample entrees such as ‘Pink Snapper Sashimi’ or ‘House Smoked Wagyu Pastrami,’ before sitting down to a main dish such as a ‘Tenderloin’ or ‘Summer Garden.’ For an extra splash of luxury, opt for Executive Sommelier Matt Herod’s handcrafted wine pairings. Treat yourself to a meticulously selected list of fine wines, recently awarded a prestigious 3 Glass rating from Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards 2020.

And fine drinks with uninterrupted views need not stop after dining. For ‘creative cocktails’ served late into the night, visitors need not stray far. Blu Bar on 36, one of Sydney’s most iconic cocktail bars, is also located on Shangri La’s 36th floor. Enjoy a sleek, modern interior design while you spend the evening enjoying your company and watching Sydney illuminate below. Sophisticated and glamourous, Blu Bar offers luxury at your convenience.

After an evening of socialising, an opportunity for self-indulgence and rejuvenation the following day is the perfect way to get some precious self-love. Shangri La offers a fully equipped ‘Health Club’ and wellness spa, meaning you do not have to compromise your fitness or health while you enjoy your stay. The ‘Health Club’ features a gymnasium, indoor heated pool, whirlpool spa, dry sauna, and even a personal trainer should you wish to have a little extra guidance. Enjoy a workout, relax in the spa facilities, before savouring some vitamin D and a book on the sundeck.

Of course, guests can also pay a visit to the luxurious in-house spa for quality treatments and expert therapists. ‘A tranquil oasis in the heart of the hotel, Chi, The Spa draws inspiration from ancient Asian healing and wellness philosophies to create a place of personal peace enchantment and wellbeing.’ For those looking to unwind from the chaos of city life, the spa offers a quality selection of massages, including the ‘Aroma Journey,’ ‘Signature Himalayan Hot Stone,’ and ‘Tension Relieving Neck and Back Massage.’

Visitors can choose from facials, body treatments, wellness retreats, and even treatment enhancements to combat ageing and wrinkles. Awarded Day Spa of the Year at the 2019 HM Awards, Chi, The Spa, is a Shangri La facility guests should not miss.

The Shangri La Hotel, Sydney, is the perfect base for visitors looking to experience a quality immersion in Sydney’s culture while finishing their stay more refreshed than they arrived.

For more information, visit shangri-la.com