GENERAL MANAGER'S NOTE
Welcome to Capella Sydney
Thank you for choosing to stay with us as your destination of choice
We are delighted to have you in residence to begin your amazing journey, and discover special moments through connection with our Capella Culturists From unearthing historical curiosity, experiencing the local neighbourhood, to exploring Sydney harbour, the team are ready to present the unexpected
We look forward to curating an array of unrivalled and memorable experiences for you at Capella Sydney Have a most wonderful stay
Best regards,
Marc von Arnim General Manager
Capella Sydney acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands now known as New South Wales We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and to the continuing strength and resilience of First Nations people and cultures
Mural 2022 By Otis Hope Carey Otis Hope Carey, is a proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung Man
CURATOR'S NOTE
Capella Sydney welcomes Michael Hill Smith AM MW of Shaw + Smith this March Shaw + Smith produce exceptional cool-climate wines from the Adelaide Hills Michael Hill Smith will be in conversation discussing the 2023 S+S Lenswood Vineyard Chardonnay and the 2021 S+S Balhannah Vineyard Shiraz
Explore the neighbourhood of Paddington, long regarded as one of Australia’s most fashionable destinations, with renowned art galleries, boutique shopping, and great dining Join art specialist Michelle Chanique and discover hidden gems known only to locals
Little Stars will learn the art of print making, taking their cues from artist Ruth Asawa’s experimentation with shapes We’ll also have fun playing some old school classic games like ‘Pick Up Sticks’, Tumbling Towers and Memory, so be sure to join us with your Little Stars
Our Culturist led Hotel tour explores the stories of our site's unique heritage - its history, architecture and interiors With cooler mornings ahead we invite you to join our Vitality walk, it’s an invigorating and brisk 3-5km walk for all levels of fitness
The 25 Biennale of Sydney is one of the leading international contemporary art events Since its inception in 1973, the Biennale of Sydney has provided a platform for art and ideas, showcasing the work of 2,400 artists from more than 130 countries Join our expert guided tour of the Biennale at White Bay Power Station in March th
Allow us to curate a lifetime of memories during your stay with us and discover why Capella Sydney embodies excellence in the craft of hospitality
Natalie Louw Lead Curator
CAPELLA RITUALS
Daily Rituals are designed to create unique moments for guests Where exceptional moments unfold at every turn We celebrate our site's vibrant past through cultural links, storytelling and incredible insight
CAPELLA RITUAL
THE
AFTERNOON SWILL
In 1916 laws in New South Wales required that public hotels (pubs as they are now known) close at 6pm, which was in part, a wartime austerity measure
As the working day ended, patrons, would descend on the public houses where they enjoyed lively banter and a refreshing beverage before the clock struck at 6pm, ushering in the austerity closing From this daily ritual the term the ‘six o ’clock swill’ was coined
The 'six o ’clock swill’ remained seared in the Australian cultural narrative until the law was abolished in 1955, however it became a permanent ritual of sorts, where today crowds of workers and locals from city to suburb can still be seen imbibing at their local bar of choice
We invite you to join us in The Living Room for convivial conversation, to linger awhile and enjoy the company of those around you before the evening ahead
Replete with our signature cocktail
Exclusive to Guests In-Residence 16:30 until 17:30 each day in The Living Room
CAPELLA MOMENTS
Our Capella Culturists have spent time scouring Sydney, leaving no leaf unturned in our mission to provide you with world-class experiences We seek, through knowledge, empathy and respect for Sydney's history and tradition, to create ‘Capella Moments’
Working alongside local experts, we have curated a selection of experiences designed to become lifelong memories
Our experiences may be cancelled in the event of incelment weather
For reservations please contact your Capella Culturists
CAPELLA MOMENT
SYDNEY’S FIRST CHINATOWN
During the Lunar New Year festivities join us on a fascinating walk to Sydney’s first Chinatown which was located in the historic Rocks area The first Chinese shops and residences were located on lower George Street
Men arriving to try their luck on the goldfields in the 1850s headed to this area to buy supplies for the journey Some stores remained for decades, including King Nam Jang importers and ship providores King Nam Jang was still trading a century after it opened in the 1860s
The Chinese community has been contributing to Sydney’s cultural and economic life for almost two centuries Join us for a walk in the city’s oldest colonial neighbourhood, thinking about that legacy and the wider evolution of the city
Capella Sydney has teamed up with history and heritage specialist Mark Bowyer, founder of Old Compass Travel to craft this very special tour that delves into Sydney’s first Chinatown
Saturday 28 February at 10:00 until 12:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
VITALITY WALK
As the city awakens for the day join our Culturist led Vitality walk It’s an invigorating and brisk 35km walk and accommodates all levels of fitness
Enjoy the stillness of the morning light and watch the harbour come alive
Each Wednesday in March at 08:00 - 09:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS
CULTURIST HOTEL TOUR
Explore the stories of our site's unique heritage - its history, architecture and interiors on our Culturist led Hotel Tour
Discover the art works commissioned by Capella Sydney that reflect on this heritage, and hear the stories that shaped the Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture
Each Thursday in March at 10:30 until 11:30
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENT CARRIAGEWORKS FARMERS MARKET
Experience the essence of Sydney’s culinary scene at the weekly Carriageworks Farmers Market, a beloved institution showcasing the freshest seasonal produce and artisanal delights from local growers and producers across NSW
Curated by acclaimed chef Mike McEnearney, the Carriageworks Farmers Market follows a strict Market Charter to ensure quality and uphold its connection to growers and producers
Our Culturist led tour showcases the very best of NSW’s autumnal produce
Saturday 28 February at 08:00 until 10:00
Saturday 07 March at 08:00 until 10:00
Saturday 28 March at 08:00 until 10:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
Kurrawong Organics Image by Anna Kučera
CAPELLA MOMENTS
OUR STORIED NEIGHBOURHOOD
Capella Sydney is a heritage landmark in the heart of the historic sandstone precinct which was central to the dramatic evolution of the city Join us for a fascinating walk of Sydney stories - many of them little-known, even by Sydney locals
Led by heritage and travel specialist Mark Bowyer, you’ll examine architecture, monuments and gardens with the historic precinct around Capella Sydney
Saturday 07 March at 10:00 until 12:00
Saturday 14 March at 10:00 until 12:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENT IN CONVERSATION WITH MICHAEL HILL-SMITH AM MW
Founded in 1989 by cousins Martin Shaw and Michael Hill-Smith MW, Shaw + Smith create Adelaide Hills wines that are a vibrant, modern expressions of their varieties, their sites and the season.
Although grapes were planted as early as 1839, it was not until 1979 that viticulture was revived in the Adelaide Hills Over the last three decades the Adelaide Hills has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting regions Shaw + Smith focus on varieties that suit the cooler Adelaide Hills climate: Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz.
Join Michael Hill-Smith MW, Australia’s first Master of Wine as he discusses the 2023 S+S Lenswood Vineyard Chardonnay and the 2021 S+S Balhannah Vineyard Shiraz
Thursday 12 March at 15:30 until 16:30
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
THE 25TH BIENNALE OF SYDNEY
The Biennale of Sydney is one of the leading international contemporary art events It plays an indispensable role in Australia’s engagement with the world, and a meaningful role in the life of the nation
Since its inception in 1973, the Biennale of Sydney has provided a platform for art and ideas, showcasing the work of 2,400 artists from more than 130 countries
Join art advisor, Michelle Chanique on a guided tour of the Biennale at White Bay Power Station
Considered one of the leading international contemporary art events, recognised for commissioning and presenting innovative, thought-provoking art from Australia and around the globe
Friday 20 March from 10:00 until 12:30
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENT
CAPELLA MOMENT SYDNEY’S HISTORY
Explore Sydney’s beginnings as Journey Walk’s expert guide Max Burns McRuvie unpacks its colorful convict heritage in the historic Rocks precinct and the Quay Capella Sydney invites you to share a part in this remarkable story
It’s a walking tour like no other Saturday 21 March at 10:00 until 11:30
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENT ARCHITECTURE WALK
Capella Sydney has teamed up with award-winning architect Eoghan Lewis to craft a 2-hour walking tour of Sydney offered exclusively to our in-house guests
Delivered in an informal and conversational manner, you will discover a series of contemporary master works by some of the world’s most celebrated architects Each project reveals the underlying political, cultural, economic, environmental and historic forces that give Sydney - and by extension its architecture - form
Friday 27 March at 10:00 until 12:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENT
CURATED PADDINGTON
Style meets culture in this trendy inner-city enclave, long regarded as one of Australia’s most fashionable destinations, with renowned art galleries, boutique shopping, and great dining Join art specialist Michelle Chanique and discover hidden gems known only to locals Michelle will guide you through the stylish and vibrant neighbourhood of Paddington
Oxford Street is the main artery, lined with designer boutiques, cafés, and pubs Explore Glenmore Road, home to Australia’s leading fashion designers and William Street, just off Oxford Street, features beautiful 19th-century terraces that now house chic designer boutiques, bars, and restaurants
We’ll start our day at a local cafe, where we’ll chat about the shopping options and map out our itinerary, the perfect way to kick off your curated Paddington adventure
Saturday 28 March from 10:00 until 12:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
AURIGA SPA WELLNESS
Your path to rejuvenation starts at Auriga Spa World-class wellness nestled among decades of architectural history
AURIGA SPA FLUIDFORM
In-house guests can also access exclusive Fluidform at Home workouts, ideal for guests looking to maintain their wellness regimen while travelling
Our Little Stars program is thoughtfully curated for Little Stars of all ages Designed to engage and spark a sense of wonder
Create a lifetime of family memories with our Little Stars programming at Capella Sydney
Parents/Caregivers must be present for all Little Stars programs
SURPRISE BALLS
Surprise balls are colourful, layered gifts where small treasures, are wrapped in bright crepe paper revealing gifts as you unwrap them
With a selection of special gifts to choose from and colorful crepe paper Little Stars will make their very own Surprise Ball
Join us for this bright and creative workshop
Saturday 28 February from 10:00 until 11:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
SHAPE MAKERS
When Ruth Asawa made prints, she experimented with different ways to cut or carve fruits and vegetables In her blue and orange print featured above, she cut the potato down the middle, making circular shapes. Ruth Asawa was an American modernist artist known primarily for her abstract prints and sculptures inspired by natural and organic forms
Just as Ruth Asawa did, we’ll experiment with the different shapes and patterns we can create
Saturday 07 March at 10:00 until 11:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
IT’S GAME TIME
Join us for some classic old-school games
From Pick Up Sticks to Four in a Row, Tumbling Towers and Memory Little Stars will delight in playing these traditional and classics games, It’s engaging and interactive play that focuses on building foundational skills
It’s a whole lot of fun as well!
Saturday 14 March at 10:00 until 11:00
Saturday 21 March at 10:00 until 11:00
Reservations required by 18:00 the day prior
POSTCARDS FROM SYDNEY
Have you visited the Sydney Opera House during your stay in Sydney? Maybe you have visited Taronga Zoo on one of Sydney’s iconic ferries or perhaps you went swimming at one of our world famous beaches?
Colour in our Little Stars postcard and we’ll post it off for you!
Where will you send your postcard to?
Saturday 28 March at 10:00 until 11:00
Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
DOODLING
Join us for some Doodling!
Little Stars will be sure to enjoy some colouring in with our ecofriendly, reusable colouring mats designed to inspire creativity and learning in your Little Stars
Made from food-grade silicone, making them durable, safe, and easy to clean just wipe or wash, and they’re ready to use again! Discover the magic of endless fun with sustainable colouring mats, designed for hours of creative fun
Each Sunday in March from 10:00 until 11:00
No Reservation required
CURATE
CAPELLA CURATES
Whether it's exploring Sydney’s iconic landmarks, delving into our city’s vibrant arts scene or learning 65,000 year of history, our curated experiences will showcase the city's rich tapestry of culture Unearth the essence of Sydney with our tailored Capella Curates experiences
Curate a lifetime of memories at Capella Sydney
HARBOUR CURATES
Unforgettable Memories
ICONIC
We take pride in curating unique experiences punctuated with unforgettable moments that will delight and enrich for years to come
From intimate half day charters to a full day of luxurious sailing, create a lifetime of memories on Sydney’s iconic harbour Bask in the memories of a truly unforgettable experience
Curate your world-class harbour experience with Capella Sydney's expert Culturists
Let The Winds Carry You
HISTORY CURATES
Our Layered History
LEARN
Honouring the culture and history of the Indigenous Australian people of the Eora Country (Sydney) we invite you to learn 65,000 years of history
It’s a deeply immersive exploration and heartfelt acknowledgement of the timeless traditions and spiritual connections that define the essence of Australia's indigenous heritage
Curate a journey of discovery and insight
65,000 Years Of History
With a deep appreciation for local history and heritage, we have handpicked a collection of experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your stay
Explore the story of Australia’s most historic precinct
It’s a walking history tour like no other
Discover the incredible story behind Sydney’s original settlement
Led by an expert local historian
THE HISTORIC ROCKS
SYDNEY’S HISTORY
ARCHITECTURE CURATES
EXPLORE
Delve into the architectural narratives that reveal the stories of Sydney through a historic lens and a contemporary context
Led by an award-winning Sydney architect the patterns and forces that shape our city are revealed We explore contemporary Sydney whilst discussing the underlying cultural forces that give the city form
Experience our visionary curation
Sydney In Context
UTZON
Providing an in-depth and textured portrait of enigmatic Danish architect Jorn Utzon as well as the story of perhaps the 20th Centuries most ambitious architectural project, this tour will draw you in to the amazing visionary world of the architect of the Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House
Reservations Required
SATURDAY 28.02 08:00 -10:00 10:00 -11:00 10:00 - 12:00
Carriageworks Market Little Stars - Surprise Balls Sydney’s First Chinatown
SUNDAY 01.03 10:00 – 11:00 Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 02.03 TUESDAY 03.03
WEDNESDAY 04.03 08:00 - 09:00 Vitality Walk
Reservations Required
DAY TIME ACTIVITY
THURSDAY 05.03 10:30 - 11:30 Culturist Hotel Tour
FRIDAY 06.03
SATURDAY 07.03
08:00 -10:00 10:00 - 12:00 10:00 -11:00
Carriageworks Farmers Market Our Storied Neighbourhood LIttle Stars - Shape Makers
SUNDAY 08.03 10:00 - 11:00 Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 09.03
TUESDAY 10.03
WEDNESDAY 11.03 08:00 - 09:00 Vitality Walk
Reservations Required
DAY TIME ACTIVITY
THURSDAY 12.03 10:30 - 11:30 15:30 - 16:30
Culturist Hotel Tour In Conversation With Michael Hill Smith MW
FRIDAY 13.03
SATURDAY 14.03 10:00 - 12:00 10:00 - 11:00 Our Storied Neighbourhood Little Stars - It’s Game Time
SUNDAY 15.03 10:00 - 11:00 Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 16.03
TUESDAY 17.03
WEDNESDAY 18.03 08:00 - 09:00 Vitality Walk
THURSDAY 19.03 10:30 - 11:30 Culturist Hotel Tour
FRIDAY 20.03 10:00 - 12:30 The 25 Biennale Of Sydney Tour th
SATURDAY 21.03 10:00 - 11:30 10:00 - 11:00 Sydney’s History Tour Little Stars - It’s Game Time
SUNDAY 22.03 10:00 - 11:00 Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 23.03
TUESDAY 24.03
WEDNESDAY 25.03 08:00 - 09:00 Vitality Walk
Reservations Required
THURSDAY 26.03 10:30 - 11:30 Culturist Hotel Tour
FRIDAY 27.03 10:00 - 12:00 Architecture Tour
SATURDAY 28.03
08:00 - 09:00 10:00 - 12:00 10:00 - 11:00
Carriageworks Market Curated Paddington Little Stars - Postcards From Sydney
SUNDAY 29.03 10:00 - 11:00 Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 30.03
TUESDAY 31.03
