HOTEL PROGRAMME
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. Judy Watson was born in Mundubbera, Queensland, and her Aboriginal matrilineal family is from Waanyi country in northwest Queensland. The artist’s process evolves by working from site and memory, revealing Indigenous histories, following lines of emotional and physical topography that centre on particular places and moments in time.
Curator’s Note
This October, enjoy the stillness of the morning light and watch the harbour come alive on our culturist-led vitality walk around Sydney’s iconic harbour foreshore. Explore a range of sommelier-selected wines as Michael Bramley and Ken Milton share their expertise, stories and insights behind each exceptional pairing. Thoughtfully presented, expertly guided and designed to be conversational. Join art specialist Michelle Chanique for an engaging visit to Brett Whiteley’s Studio. Designed to spark a sense of curiosity and connection. Our Culturist-led tour this October explores Wendy Whiteley’s extraordinary Secret Garden, nestled in the harbourside enclave of Lavender Bay. It’s where Brett Whitely painted some of his most iconic artworks. Little Stars are invited to join us on a visual adventure as we go on an Art Hunt! Towards the end of October, we’ll have a spookalicious time decorating Halloween cookies and creating Halloween crafts. 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
THE AFTERNOON SWILL 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.
Image: Mitchell Library | State Library of New South Wales
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. Each afternoon in The Living Room between 16:30 until 17:30 Exclusive to Guests Only
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 MOMENTS AUSTRALIAN NATIVE FOOD FESTIVAL
The Australian Native Food Festival honours, educates and shares the oldest cuisine on earth. Curated by Sharon Winsor, proud Weilwan woman from North West NSW and founder of Indigiearth, the festival is dedicated to recognising Indigenous culture, knowledge, and culinary excellence while celebrating the rich heritage of native ingredients. Join our Culturist led experience which is more than just a festival, it’s a celebration of sustainability, and the magic of storytelling through food. Saturday 26 September at 09:00 until 11:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
© Carriageworks
CAPELLA MOMENTS OUR ICON - THE SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE
Led by heritage and travel specialist Mark Bowyer, this experience explores the remarkable story of J. J. C. Bradfield, who was regarded as the "father" of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Through his tenacious vision and detailed supervision of every stage of its construction, Bradfield helped bring to life one of the world's greatest engineering achievements. Affectionately known as "The Coathanger", the Sydney Harbour Bridge is far more than an engineering marvel. Discover the fascinating stories, people and events that have shaped this iconic landmark and its enduring place in Australia's history. Saturday 26 September at 10:00 until 12:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CULTURIST HOTEL TOUR
Explore the stories of our site's unique heritage its history, architecture and interiors. Discover the art works commissioned by Capella Sydney that reflect on this heritage. It’s a journey of discovery led by one of our expert Culturists. Each Tuesday in October at 10:30 until 11:30 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS VITALITY WALK
As the city awakens, join our invigorating and brisk 3-5km Culturist-led vitality walk. Enjoy the stillness of the morning light and watch the harbour come alive. Each Wednesday in October at 08:00 - 09:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS THE LANDS BY CAPELLA
Constructed in the 1870s by Colonial Architect James Barnet as the Department of Lands the grandeur of original elements, from arched windows and black-and-white marble corridors to vast timber doors and ornate wainscoting, has been meticulously restored. These heritage features are complemented by contemporary insertions that create a respectful dialogue between past and present. Our Culturist led tour shares the stories of the site’s unique heritage and showcases the transformed spaces within the historic Department of Lands building. Each Thursday in October at 10:30 until 12:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
© Carriageworks
CAPELLA MOMENTS 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 experience showcases the very best of NSW’s produce. Saturday 03 October at 08:00 until 10:00 Saturday 17 October at 08:00 until 10:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS CHEESE + WINE MASTERCLASS
Discover the art of pairing fine wine and artisan cheese in an immersive workshop with The Artisan Cheese Room of Paddington. Deepen your appreciation of quality wines and the stories behind the produce. Explore a selection of sommelier-selected wines, as Michael Bramley and Ken Milton share their expertise, stories and insights behind each exceptional pairing. Thoughtfully presented, expertly guided and designed to be conversational. Saturday 03 October at 15:00 until 16:30 Saturday 24 October at 15:00 until 16:30 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS THE ART AND LIFE OF BRETT WHITELEY
Brett Whiteley is one of Australia’s most celebrated artists. He won the Art Gallery of NSW Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes several times, and his artistic career was strengthened by his celebrity status in Australia and overseas. He worked across painting, sculpture and the graphic arts, and is best known for lyrical paintings of interiors, and harbour scenes. His work became highly desired by collectors. Join Art Specialist, Michelle Chanique for an engaging studio visit to Brett Whiteley’s studio. Michelle’s studio visit will spark a sense of curiosity, conversation and connection. Friday 09 October at 10:30 until 12:30 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
OUR HARBOUR SERIES WENDY WHITELEY’S SECRET GARDEN
Join our Culturist-led tour to explore Wendy Whiteley’s extraordinary Secret Garden, nestled in the harbourside enclave of Lavender Bay. Wendy and her renowned artist husband, the late Brett Whiteley, made their family home in Lavender Bay in 1970. This is the extraordinary story of how a determined, passionate and deeply creative woman slowly transformed a disused rail corridor into a harbourside sanctuary. For more than twenty years, Wendy Whiteley worked to create a public garden at the foot of her harbourside home. From Circular Quay, we travel to Lavender Bay aboard one of Sydney’s iconic ferries to Milsons Point. It’s a brief walk from the wharf to Wendy’s Garden, where you’ll have time to explore the tiered gardens, admire magnificent views across the Harbour, and discover pathways that reveal wonderful sculptures. Saturday 10 October at 09:45 until 12:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN SYDNEY
The Royal Botanic Garden is Australia’s oldest botanic garden located in the very heart of Sydney overlooking Sydney’s iconic harbour. Explore the garden and its remarkable history, botany and wildlife on a 1.5 hour guided walk. You’ll discover the rich heritage and plant diversity of the Botanic Garden nestled on Sydney’s beautiful harbour. Our Culturist will escort you over to the garden and introduce you to your expert guide. The tour runs for approx. 1 hour and concludes at the garden. Friday 25 September 2026 at 10:00 until 12:00 Friday 16 October 2026 at 10:00 until 12:00 Friday 23 October 2026 at 10:00 until 12:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
CAPELLA MOMENTS SYDNEY’S HISTORY GUIDED WALK
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 17 October at 10:00 - 11:30 Saturday 31 October at 10:00 - 11:30 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
Your path to rejuvenation starts at Auriga Spa. World-class wellness nestled among decades of architectural history
AURIGA SPA FLUIDFORM
In-house guests can access exclusive Fluidform at Home workouts, ideal for guests looking to maintain their wellness regimen while travelling.
Our programming is thoughtfully curated for Little Stars of all ages. It’s an engaging program, designed to spark imagination and 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 programming.
LITTLE STARS KOOKABURRA COLLAGE
Bring along your creativity and curiosity as we discover the art of collage. It’s sure to be a colourful workshop celebrating one of Australia's most iconic native animals. Maybe we’ll also learn to laugh and sing like a Kookaburra! Saturday 03 October at 10:00 until 11:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
LITTLE STARS WE’RE GOING ON AN ART HUNT!
Join our Lead Curator on a visual adventure as we explore the artwork around Capella Sydney. Can you find the sculpture that looks like flowers blooming? Can you draw it? Can you find the tall green wall? Let’s sketch it! Let’s explore together as we go on an art hunt! It’s so much fun adults will want to join in, too! Saturday 10 October at 10:00 until 11:00 Saturday 17 October at 10:00 until 11:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
LITTLE STARS HALLOWEEN CRAFT
Halloween is almost here and no one loves Halloween craft more than our Lead Curator! From decorative garlands to washi tape pumpkins and dangling paper spiders, Little Stars of all ages will have a spooktacular time making Halloween crafts.We’ll have a range of crafts to suit all ages. Saturday 24 October at 10:00 until 11:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
LITTLE STARS HALLOWEEN COOKIE DECORATING
Little Stars will have a spookalicious time decorating Halloween cookies! Pumpkins, ghosts and more await your Little Stars as we get creative and celebrate Halloween with a cookie decorating workshop. Saturday 31 October at 10:00 until 11:00 Reservations are required by 18:00 the day prior
LITTLE STARS DOODLING
Specially designed to inspire creativity and learning these premium colouring mats are made from food-grade silicone, making them safe, durable, and perfect for little hands. Best of all, they're reusable, simply wipe clean or wash, and they're ready for the next colourful adventure! Colour, create, and explore with our beautiful eco-friendly, reusable colouring mats. With endless colouring fun and a sustainable design, these mats are sure to become a favourite with every Little Star. Each Sunday in October from 10:00 until 11:00 No reservation required
CURATE Y O U R
E X P E R I E N C E
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
THE HISTORIC ROCKS
SYDNEY’S HISTORY
Explore the story of Australia’s
Discover the incredible story behind
most historic precinct..
Sydney’s original settlement.
It’s a walking history tour like no other.
Led by an expert local historian.
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 while 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
DAY
TIME
ACTIVITY
FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER
10:00 - 12:00
Royal Botanic Gardens Guided Walk
SATURDAY 26 SEPTEMBER
09:00 - 11:00 10:00 - 12:00 10:00 - 11:00
Australian Native Food Festival Our Icon - The Sydney Harbour Bridge Little Stars - Little Starchitects
SUNDAY 27 SEPTEMBER
10:00 - 11:00
Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 28 SEPTEMBER
TUESDAY 29 SEPTEMBER
10:30 - 11:30
Culturist Led - Hotel Tour
DAY
TIME
ACTIVITY
WEDNESDAY 30 SEPTEMBER
08:00 - 09:00
Vitality Walk
THURSDAY 01 OCTOBER
10:30 -12:00
Culturist Led - The Lands By Capella Tour
SATURDAY 03 OCTOBER
08:00 - 10:00 10:00 - 11:00 15:00 - 16:30
Carriageworks Farmers Market Little Stars - Kookaburra Collage Cheese + Wine Pairing Masterclass
SUNDAY 04 OCTOBER
10:00 - 11:00
Little Stars - Doodling
FRIDAY 02 OCTOBER
DAY
TIME
ACTIVITY
TUESDAY 06 OCTOBER
10:30 - 11:30
Culturist Led - Hotel Tour
WEDNESDAY 07 OCTOBER
08:00 - 09:00
Vitality Walk
THURSDAY 08 OCTOBER
10:30 - 12:00
Culturist Led - The Lands By Capella Tour
FRIDAY 09 OCTOBER
10:30 - 12:30
The Art and Life Of Brett Whiteley
SATURDAY 10 OCTOBER
09:45 -12:00 10:00 - 11:00
Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden Walk LIttle Stars - We’re Going On An Art Hunt
SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER
10:00 - 11:00
Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 05 OCTOBER
DAY
TIME
ACTIVITY
TUESDAY 13 OCTOBER
10:30 - 11:30
Culturist Led - Hotel Tour
WEDNESDAY 14 OCTOBER
08:00 - 09:00
Vitality Walk
THURSDAY 15 OCTOBER
10:30 - 12:00
Culturist Led - The Lands By Capella Tour
FRIDAY 16 OCTOBER
10:00 -12:00
Royal Botanic Gardens Guided Walk
SATURDAY 17 OCTOBER
08:00 - 10:00 10:00 - 11:30 10:00 - 11:00
Carriageworks Farmers Market Sydney’s History Guided Walk Little Stars - We’re Going On An Art Hunt
10:00 - 11:00
Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 12 OCTOBER
SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER
Reservations Required
DAY
TIME
ACTIVITY
TUESDAY 20 OCTOBER
10:30 - 11:30
Culturist Led - Hotel Tour
WEDNESDAY 21 OCTOBER
08:00 - 09:00
Vitality Walk
10:30 - 12:00
Culturist Led - The Lands By Capella Tour
FRIDAY 23 OCTOBER
10:00 -12:00
Royal Botanic Gardens Guided Walk
SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER
10:00 -11:00 15:00 - 16:30
Little Stars - Halloween Craft Cheese + Wine Pairing Masterclass
SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER
10:00 - 11:00
Little Stars - Doodling
MONDAY 19 OCTOBER
THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER
DAY
TIME
ACTIVITY
TUESDAY 27 OCTOBER
10:30 - 11:30
Culturist Led - Hotel Tour
WEDNESDAY 28 OCTOBER
08:00 - 09:00
Vitality Walk
THURSDAY 29 OCTOBER
10:30 - 12:00
Culturist Led - The Lands By Capella Tour
10:00 - 11:30 10:00 - 11:00
Sydney’s History Guided Walk Little Stars - Halloween Cookie Decorating
MONDAY 26 OCTOBER
FRIDAY 30 OCTOBER
SATURDAY 31 OCTOBER