HIDDEN GEM IN THE HEART OF AN AUSSIE CITY WILL GIVE YOU A SERENE BREAK

Sofitel Darling Harbour is hard to miss when walking through the area
But what many don't see is the stunning space within
The spa offers an unbelievable half-day experience to help you switch off
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If you've taken a stroll through Sydney it's safe to say you've spotted the glistening Sofitel Darling Harbour slotted into the city's famous skyline.

And while it's hard not to marvel at the modern design from afar, the stress-zapping relaxation hub hidden within is far more special.

Nestled among the walls of the 35-floor French hotel are a set of picturesque yet cosy suites and a marble-clad wellness space so peaceful you can feel tension quite literally melt from your muscles as you step through the doors.

And much to the delight of weary Aussies, the latter is currently offering the ultimate escape for burnt-out city workers and parents: a five-hour wellness journey.

The journey begins at 9 - 10am and takes you through four elements: movement, care, nutrition and rest.

The movement is in your hands and you can choose between either a refreshing swim in the rooftop pool, a Peloton spin class in the gym or a yoga class.

That's when the good stuff begins.

The care part of the experience is the longest at three hours. Your therapist will take you on a sensory journey that begins with a body polish and wrap with a blend of active botanicals, pure sun dried clays and cold pressed plant oils.

You will feel the tension and worries ooze from within as you enjoy a beautiful head massage while you're wrapped in a warm fuzzy towel, giving the oils and clay time to sink in.

A relaxing massage with the spa's signature aromatherapy blend follows, before you are taken out to the tranquil spa space for a private lunch for the nutrition portion of the day.

The light lunch is curated by Executive Chef Sam Moor, with all options likely vegan and pure nourishment for the soul.

Once this hour ends you return to your freshly spruced Japanese-inspired treatment room for an Organic Apple Collagen Facial that uses botanicals and gentle fruit enzymes to inject life back into the skin.

While flying high in a state of pure serenity, you will finish the experience with the rest element of the journey: an inspiring guided meditation or mandala colouring while you reflect on the day.

Valet parking is included in the experience if you want to shoot back home after the five-hours of bliss.

If, however, you'd prefer to top the day off with a brilliant night's sleep and some hearty soul food, there is a raft of stunning rooms at your doorstep. Our pick? The Junior Suite.

This high-floor waterfront suite is simply breathtaking and boasts a floor-to-ceiling windows, a plush king bed which is guaranteed to give you the best sleep of your life and little meticulous details like fitness kits hidden in every corner.

As an added bonus, this room includes access to the hotel's famous Club Millesime so you can treat yourself to some mouthwatering snacks before ordering off the very generous In-Room dining menu later on.

The exclusive Club Millesime space on level 35 is reserved for those staying on higher floors and boasts some of the most impressive views in the city.

Once you have access you will be able to enjoy buffet breakfast there, afternoon tea (Le Gouter) from 3-5pm and Apero Chic - afternoon drinks and canapes from 5.30pm - 7.30pm.

The club also offers private check-in/check-out, complimentary internet, shower facilities, concierge services and shoe shining.

To learn more or book, visit the Sofitel Darling Harbour website here.

The Wellness Journey costs $850 Monday-Thursday and $900 Friday-Sunday.

2024-05-20T06:54:21Z dg43tfdfdgfd