Review: Four Seasons Sydney, where luxury is the love language

At Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, the essence of luxury can be felt in a generosity of access, an abundance of warmth and in treating every guest as an individual.

What defines true luxury in an era of travel when triple-digit thread counts and rooftop pools are the norm? What elevates a hotel to the next level of sophistication and grace?

The essence of luxury at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is in its unique perspective. In its generosity of access. In its belief in equality. In its language of love that speaks to each and every one of its guests.

The essence of luxury

The singularity of the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney experience begins as soon as you arrive at the property, which sits in a peerless position on the city’s sparkling harbour, with uninterrupted views to Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

In room breakfast, Harbour View Room, Four Seasons Sydney — Marvel at uninterrupted views to Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge from your Harbour Room.

Guests don’t so much check into a room, rather the staff invite you to trust them with your stay. Little questions inform the experience you will have: your name is on everyone’s lips when they greet you; your special occasion becomes a collective celebration; your preferences are the benchmark for your stay.

In your room and throughout the hotel, such personalised focus on the individual presents itself in the little things that conversely have huge significance: special in-room dining menus that reflect your tastes and indulgent treats waiting for you; access to bespoke experiences that cater to your interests (from private tours to a pampering personalised bath experience tailored to your mood); meeting – and exceeding – your wildest desires (like being ferried across the harbour in a sleek motor boat or securing a private booking to climb the Harbour Bridge).

Woman in bath harbour views, Royal Suite, Four Seasons Sydney — Relax in a bath prepared from your personalised Bath Butler menu, pictured here in the Presidential Suite Bath.

Such effortless service, attention to detail and resolve to deliver the moments of humanity that transform every stay into a story is the quintessence of Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, and form the guiding principles to everything it does.

The generosity of access

While close proximity to the city’s sights and experiences is a given during your stay, it is the access that guests have to the property’s staff that is another element that sets Four Seasons Hotel Sydney apart.

The knowledge, experience and imagination of its people are an intangible value proposition, as is the time they spend on learning about your personality, your needs and what you love.

It’s in the way Josh Blake, the hotel’s chef concierge and a member of the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or (The Society of the Golden Keys), puts together a bespoke historic walking tour of the surrounding neighbourhood of the Rocks, painstakingly researching the heritage of the buildings and the local characters who once dwelt there, and peppering his commentary with quirky facts (and cafe recommendations) to feed the imagination of a guest’s daughter studying for her HSC history exam.

Adam Lau, bartender at Four Seasons Sydney — Have every cocktail explained to you by Grain’s bar manager, Adam Lau.

Or the approach of Adam Lau, the manager at Grain , the hotel’s atmospheric ground-floor bar, who will explain the timbre of each cocktail and spirit on the extensive bar menu, before happily making you something completely unique after discovering your likes, your dislikes and your current mood.

He will also gladly provide a tableside experience with the bar’s new Macallan Trolley, featuring rare bottles of whisky to enjoy.

It can be experienced in the meticulously curated tastes produced in Mode Kitchen & Bar , where the cultural influences and finely honed skills of executive chef Francesco Mannelli and his team play out on the plate in surprising, flavoursome ways.

The clean simplicity of the restaurant’s signature minestrone soup is the perfect starting point at lunch (one of many pleasing vegetarian and vegan options from a dedicated menu), followed by sides like roasted eggplant drenched in a sticky miso glaze and crispy Tasmanian potatoes with fried rosemary.

Mode Kitchen team at Four Seasons Sydney — Enjoy the meticulously curated tastes at Mode Kitchen.

At dinner, the Chef’s Coorong Angus T-bone, a one-kilogram T-bone cut of grass-fed, three-weeks dry-aged beef, represents a true five-star feast.

And for a theatrical end to the evening, the frozen Pavlova with rhubarb, strawberry and pistachio arrives at table in a trailing haze of pearly white smoke that will have everyone in the restaurant staring in wonder.

It is also in the delicious feeling of splendour bestowed by the property’s ‘bath butler’ who takes pride in the task of drawing a bath for you at turndown, imbibing the water with fragrant botanical elements and making sure everything is just so.

An elevated approach

There are many aspects of a residence at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney that elevate it beyond the everyday, and the every hotel, including gaining exclusive access to its club lounge, Lounge 32.

In-room dining at Four Seasons Sydney — Enjoy breakfast in your room with incredible views.

As the name suggests, the stylishly appointed enclave takes pride of place on the property’s 32 floors, offering up jaw-dropping vistas of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, and out to the Sydney Heads beyond.

On a clear-sky day, sitting at a table by the window, enjoying the complimentary breakfast offering or all-day menu and endless views is an ultimate Sydney bucket list experience.

And make sure to return as the day fades to see the international city light up, with cocktails and canapes within easy reach.

An equality of experience

The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney’s inclusive approach to its guests in residence includes even its smallest – and its furriest.

Its unique perspective on hospitality means that there is no differentiation in the sense of belonging created for a couple, a six-year-old child or a 10-year-old terrier.

Kid's play tent at Four Seasons Sydney — Kids can enjoy a special single-bed tent.

Families entering their suite are greeted by a delightful set-up of a special single-bed tent, filled with children’s slippers and bathrobe, toiletries, snacks and Flynn, a cuddly koala toy with his own Instagram account (#FSFlynn); entry to Taronga Zoo to visit a real koala is also part of the fun.

As for four-legged members of the family, the Pet Paw-fection package pampers with exclusive perks and amenities such as organic treats, luxurious Australian bath products, a plush bed designed by Australian Indigenous artists, and a natural wool-felt toy, with everything from dog walking to recommendations of dog-friendly cafes available from the concierge.

Dogs welcome at Four Seasons Sydney — Even your furriest friends are welcome at the Four Seasons Sydney.

Luxury is their love language

In the end, the true luxury of Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is about creating a meaningful sense of belonging. It’s the simple elegance of empathy. It’s an abundance of warmth. And it’s the ever-present embrace of kindness.

To start your journey of luxury, for more information and bookings, visit Four Seasons Hotel Sydney .

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

The Language of Love at the Four Seasons Sydney