3 minute read
e Langham Sydney
The Langham Sydney
BACKGROUND The Langham Hotels and Resorts is a portfolio of luxury hotels in prime destinations, with a hospitality legacy dating back to 1865 in London. The Sydney property, formerly The Observatory Hotel, but revamped, rebranded and reopened as a Langham in December 2014, occupies a premium location on Kent Street and encapsulates the brand’s signature touches, from its elegant design and sincere service to bursts of ‘Langham Pink’, including its Pink Taxi – a nod to the brand’s British heritage.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? Private, discreet and residential, with 83 spacious sun-filled rooms and 13 suites terraces facing the city or the famous Sydney harbour. There is an intimate ambience from the moment you step inside, and you feel as if you are a member of an exclusive club or residence. This property is for the discerning guest who appreciates subtle luxury over ostentation. Sta are professional, friendly and courteous and the design is elegant, contemporary and accentuated by natural daylight.
WHERE IS IT? This glamourous hideaway is nestled in the heart of ‘old’ Sydney at The Rocks, close to Circular Quay and its icons, with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House a 10-minute walk away. It’s also five minutes from Barangaroo, a new development that saw a container terminal transformed into a modern retail and dining precinct and a nature reserve with stunning harbour views. ROOMS We travelled as a family of four, so we occupied two adjoining rooms – one with an indulgent super king (possibly the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in) and the other with two double beds. Both rooms were very spacious with elegant modern décor, including white shutter blinds and furniture, complemented by bold splashes of colour in artwork and cushions. Our rooms overlooked the harbour and were flooded with daylight, plus the large marble bathrooms featured double sinks, a bathtub and walk-in rain shower. In-room luxuries included robes, slippers, Chuan Spa toiletries, fast complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini bar, tea/ co ee-making facilities and an iPod dock. There was a desk/vanity unit and separate table, so plenty of space to work or rest.
FOOD AND DRINK There are two outlets – the well-known Observatory Bar where you can sip inventive cocktails while sinking into the plush velvet chairs – and the Kitchens on Kent, where fine-dining meets an openkitchen luxury bu et. We ate breakfast here and enjoyed superb co ee, fresh juices, and a wide array of cuisines – fruit, pastries, dim
sum, a cooked breakfast with eggs to order, just how you like them, and much more. The Langham also o ers a popular afternoon tea with Wedgewood, plus plenty of private dining options to wow clients.
BUSINESS The Langham can host a wide range of corporate and social events with venues including The Ballroom (up to 220 guests) and The Drawing Room (up to 140) with Western Harbour glimpses. For special occasions, the Pink Taxi is on call.
LEISURE For health and wellness there’s an underground sanctuary featuring a Romanesque-style 20-metre indoor pool, a small, but well kitted-out gym, and one of Sydney’s best day spas – The Chuan Spa – with 10 treatment rooms. Guests also have access to a private tennis court located opposite the hotel.
VERDICT This sophisticated boutique property is close to all the city action but tucked away in a quiet and discreet location. It’s a convenient luxurious base for business travellers who expect the best – and ideal for a ‘bleisure’ trip. You will definitely be tempted to extend your stay to spend some sunny Sydney leisure time with family or friends. Gemma Greenwood
BEST FOR A work-to-leisure stay
DON’T MISS Drinks in the Observatory Bar
PRICE From AU$448 (US$323) per night for a Deluxe Room
CONTACT 89-113 Kent Street; langhamhotels.com
