Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s bustling CBD, the InterContinental Sydney is an iconic landmark that has been redefining luxury hospitality for decades. Karryon’s Matt Leedham checks in to add his story to the building’s fabled history books.
With its prime location offering dazzling views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Royal Botanic Garden, the 509-room InterContinental Sydney, housed in the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851, seamlessly combines the timeless charm of its heritage with the sophistication of a modern design classic.
Initially reimagined as a new luxury travel destination in 1985 when the property first opened its doors as a hotel, the “Old Dame” of Sydney has since emerged from a $120-million makeover in 2022 by global architecture studio Woods Bagot with a colour palette and aesthetic that brings the subtropical hues of the surrounding harbour and botanic gardens inside the illustrious establishment.
Check-in and beyond
Stepping through the main doors and into the Treasury lobby bar area, the grandeur of this storied building is immediately evident. It is, in many ways, a lovely surprise after being in the more drab CBD and harks back to an era where delivering high-end service was an esteemed career and honour in its own right.
A sunken marble bar takes centre stage, surrounded by striking black-and-white chevron tiles and an abundance of tropical ferns that accentuate the vibe of days gone by. Immaculate waiters in crisp white jackets buzz around with trays of colourful drinks. Was that Hercule Poirot who just breezed past? Or a Sydney hipster? This is the kind of place that makes you want to perch yourself at the bar, sip slowly on a gin and tonic, and watch the hotel’s comings and goings unfold around you.
I’m also interested to learn that the exposed caged lift that clunks up and down the first three levels of the 171-year-old sandstone building remains the oldest working lift in the southern hemisphere.
Stepping into the adjacent reception area, I’m impressed by the stunning spotted gum desks and the seamless check-in process from the team behind them. The attentive and friendly staff make me feel genuinely welcomed and thoroughly informed about the hotel’s must-do’s. It feels reassuring to know that the tradition of distinguished service continues, and in no time, I am whisked away in the heritage lift, eager to see my room.
The room
I’m staying in Room 2024, one of the Harbour Bridge Rooms, and it’s spectacular. The 32m² space feels huge and is beautifully appointed, with a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary decor. The muted colour palette of grey, green, and ocean tones creates a calming ambience, enhanced by plush carpets underfoot.
An enormous rectangular window with a stylish black frame offers breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, a feature that truly sets this room apart. A chaise lounge completes the picture and is the perfect place to lazily watch the comings and goings on the bridge and in the harbour. Light and shade, whatever the time of day. Despite being in the middle of the city hub, the room was also very quiet, providing a peaceful retreat.
The suite includes all the luxury amenities one would expect: a big TV, a well-stocked gourmet minibar, and a Vittoria espresso machine for coffee lovers. The king-sized signature cloud mattress is exceptionally comfortable, and the marble bathroom, complete with a giant rain shower and Byredo pump bottle toiletries, adds an extra touch of indulgence and sustainability.
When I wake at sunrise, the automatic curtains slide back to reveal a cruise ship slowly arriving to berth at Circular Quay. It’s a truly iconic Sydney moment and a lovely start to my day.
Food and drink
The InterContinental Sydney offers various dining options night and day, each providing a unique culinary experience. Café Opera, aka The Conservatory, offers a huge range of fresh and locally sourced produce for breakfast, while The Treasury delivers an all-day feast of snacks, small and larger plates, and botanical-infused classic cocktails. The more decadent Pont Dining Room menu blends diverse flavours of Australia’s culturally rich landscape and showcases New South Wales’s finest boutique producers.
The hotel also offers its famous High Tea experience on Saturdays and Sundays. For those privileged souls with club floor access, the newly refurbished Club InterContinental, perched on the 31st floor, has magnificent views of Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Garden.
The real drawcard, though, for hotel guests and visitors alike is Aster, the fabulous rooftop bar and restaurant located on level 32, which features 270-degree views that capture the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Sydney Harbour Bridge and stretch out across the refined harbour bays of the eastern suburbs.
Inside, Aster features plush green armchairs and navy blue banquettes arranged in a theatre style that shows Sydney’s finest charms from above. Outside, a terrace complete with comfy lounges wraps around the rooftop’s side, looking outwards towards Elizabeth Bay and beyond Sydney Heads. Here, you can indulge in creative cocktails, including a wonderful range of non-alcoholic ones, artful small plates, and highly personalised service. My tip: Make sure you book ahead. This is one of Sydney’s most wanted restaurants, and for very good reason.
Wellbeing
The covered rooftop pool and sauna offer a serene escape with their panoramic views, while the 24-hour fitness centre is compact and well-equipped for those who like to stay active. The spa, with its range of luxurious treatments, provides a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the city or meetings. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to check it out during this stay.
The verdict
My stay felt like a decadent treat, marked by exceptional service, luxurious comfort, and stunning views. I loved the rooftop bar Aster and was impressed at the level of detail and consideration at every touchpoint throughout the hotel—so much so that it’s difficult to fault anything, in all honesty. This hotel is perfect for both business travellers and leisure seekers looking for a sophisticated retreat in the heart of Sydney. The heritage aspect, location, views, and overall vibe would definitely exceed all expectations for anyone travelling from overseas.
The details
Location: The InterContinental Sydney
117 Macquarie Street, Sydney, New South Wales 2000 Australia
Room #: 2024
Check in: 3pm / Check-out: 11am
Starting room rate: Rates for a Harbour Bridge Room start from AUD$495 per night.
www.sydney.intercontinental.com
Matt Leedham stayed as a guest of the hotel.
