PARK HYATT SYDNEY
Sparkling and abuzz with ferries and cruise ships, Sydney Harbour unfurls in front of the Park Hyatt like its own private playground. Each of the 155 guestrooms, the restaurant and even the rooftop hot tub capture views of the waterfront. Inside, the décor is modern and muted, a smart backdrop for Australian artworks. Comfort and elegance are the focus in guestrooms, with spacious marble bathrooms and balconies with oversized sunloungers. Dining options keep things local with Sydney rock oysters and kangaroo tartare among the offerings at The Dining Room.
In a city besotted by property value and location, this is a most spectacular address. 7 Hickson Rd, The Rocks, (02) 9256 1234, sydney.park.hyatt.com Staff notify guests by text message the moment their room is ready (often before the official check-in time of 3pm) so the stay can begin without delay.
Start the day with a jog or brisk walk to the Royal Botanic Garden; end it with a well-timed drink at the Opera Bar watching the sun set behind the Harbour Bridge. While there’s a little hustling for seats with views among guests, the truth is there isn’t a bad spot for breakfast in The Dining Room. Choose from a well-curated buffet or order from an à la carte menu that runs from avocado toast to eggs Benedict with smoked salmon.
The Park Hyatt’s bar is far from the best place for a drink, hidden as it is in a rare windowless corner of the hotel. Instead, find a spot in the adjacent waterfront Living Room. Or head to the rooftop pool, grab a table or cabana and have staff mix a perfectly tart Gin Sour to go with that scenery.