The Observatory Hotel

Travel

First published on 30 Jun 2008. Updated on 7 May 2012.

A consistent favourite among the more well-heeled visitors to the city, the service-oriented Observatory has the feel, and indeed some of the looks, of a typical European grand hotel. Tones are hushed as the army of staff attend to every need and desire of the guest. The furniture is mainly rich mahogany with a mass of antiques and lush drapes, and there is almost a gentleman’s club feel to some of the public rooms. The hotel is owned by Orient-Express and its refined elegance has garnered a mass of awards. Rooms boast original artworks, plus marble bathrooms, CD players hidden away in antique armoires and high-speed internet points. Most rooms have views of Walsh Bay or Observatory Hill. The Observatory’s renowned spa, which comes with an indoor pool complete with a sparkling night-sky ceiling, is quite something; it offfers deluxe treatments by Payot and La Prairie. Bar. Business centre. Concierge. Disabled-adapted rooms. Gym. Internet (high-speed). No-smoking floors. Parking ($40). Pool (indoor). Restaurant. Room service. Spa. TV (cable/pay movies/DVD). CityRail/ferry Circular Quay. Rates $369-$825 double. Rooms 100. Credit AmEx, DC, MC, V.

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