On this occasion we are looking for a luxury family weekend venue in Sydney as opposed to a romantic break so we’re trying the Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney.

We are looking for a suite that can accommodate a family of four in style and luxury and for hotel facilities that will entertain the kids. Could this actually be our Shangri-La?

 

Location & Check In

 

The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney is located in The Rocks – an excellent location for any visitor. From here, you can walk to most city attractions. And being so close to the harbour ensures that most rooms and suites have stunning views. The Shangri-La Hotel is  large with 450 rooms and all of them have been recently renovated in plush luxurious style.

I had two small children with me at reception so a fast  check in was imperative. Within a couple of minutes we had keys in hand and were showed towards our suite with a smile. A great start!

 

Executive Suite

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The first thing you notice is the breathtaking view over the harbour and the bridge – WOW!  The executive suite is laid out very well – the bedroom is luxurious and plush, the living room is very separate and has a comfortable three-seater sofa that converts into a double bed at night. Bingo! Absolutely perfect for a family of four. The kids also had their own powder room meaning more privacy for the parents.

The bathroom is very spacious and modern. It has the same stunning views from every window (which can be blocked out by motorised blinds if you prefer to bathe in the candle light).

 

 

Service  

I don’t know whether having cute kids with us got us extra treats or not but we were certainly spoiled! A couple of fruit platters arrived when we checked in. This was followed by a bottle of French sparkling wine and a little box of gourmet truffles  to spoil the parents, plus chocolate lolly pops, cookies and a bottle of milk for the kids – very sweet and thoughtful!

 

Breakfast

The breakfast is  exactly what you’d expect from a five-star hotel with an omelette station, fresh fruit and beautiful pastries as well as some Asian food choices. We loved the bowls of home made jams though the coffee and huge line on Sunday morning could be improved on.

 

Chi Spa

 

 

We highly recommend this spa. It has a distinct Asian feel about it, excellent service and brilliant therapists. I had a scrub and a massage – both were fantastic. If you can request Michael, the magic of his hands is guaranteed to relieve any tension you might have in your body.

 

Executive Lounge

 

The executive lounge serves the usual breakfast, afternoon snacks and evening cocktails. There were beautiful chicken sandwiches and éclairs in the afternoon  that were a real trea,t especially in comparison to some Sydney hotels that don’t serve  any food in the afternoons.

 

Indoor Pool

 

The pool is the best we found in Sydney! It is really warm (unlike most others) and very beautiful to look at.

Needless to say my children spend half a day there swimming, diving and making friends. It’s  a real social spot for the little ones.

 

The Gym

The gym onto the pool and has a great range of equipment. If you find a minute in your busy schedule head down for a run.

 

Splitting Hairs

Our stay was fantastic! The only suggestion we would have to the Shangri La is to refine the interior of the Executive Lounge. It is not very welcoming. Perhaps a few more soft furnishings and sofas could make a difference. Also, being a very large hotel by Sydney standards the hotel lifts and breakfast area did get really busy on the weekend.

 

All In All

The  Shangri-La Hotel is a fantastic Luxury Hotel in Sydney. The Executive Suites are absolutely perfect for families. They are new, luxurious and very well priced (starting from $550 per night). We haven’t seen any other suites in Sydney with a fold-out bed for the kids.

The hotel pool is a real treat and the Asian inspired service is a cherry on top!

If you are looking for a luxury family time in Sydney, don’t hesitate and book the Shangri-La Hotel.