The Observatory Hotel may not be the biggest or flashiest of Sydney's five-star properties, nor does it have a harbour view, but anyone who has stayed there will know it has plenty of other drawcards which successfully lure visitors. For a start, it has an excellent location in the heart of The Rocks district; it's quietly tucked away from the hubbub of the CBD, yet close enough to all the action so you don't feel you're missing out on anything. It also has a cool, serene atmosphere, more reminiscent of a European country manor than an inner-city hotel, and an award-winning restaurant in Galileo. But another of its many temptations is an elaborate day spa, famous for its subterranean “under the stars” pool, and a menu of indulgent and luxurious treatments.
The Decor:
The first thing which strikes you as you exit the elevator is "that" pool. It may be indoors - which in the throes of a Sydney summer is actually a blessing - but what separates it from the rest is a magnificent domed ceiling. Featuring a fibre-optic representation of the Southern Hemisphere sky at night, it's a clever continuation of the star gazing theme which runs throughout the hotel - and more than makes up for the lack of a natural, al fresco vista. The spa itself has an elegant, welcome feel and offers a real retreat from the cut and thrust of city life. It was completely renovated in late 2005, with the addition of four new treatment rooms to bring the total up to ten. Also new, one of these beautifully appointed rooms accommodates couples. New features in all the rooms include individual showers, and mood lighting - a kind of colour therapy for the soul - and the changing rooms have also been upgraded, with face lifts given to the steam room, sauna and showers.
The Treatments:
Another major change was the introduction of one of the world's most exclusive beauty brands, La Prairie. Signature treatments from this deluxe range include the Caviar Firming Facial ($200, 1hr 30mins), where a mask of caviar pearls are used to transform a dull complexion, and the Diamond Body Perfection treatment ($260, 2hrs), involving a full body micro-dermabrasion (see below). Guests can also enjoy basic grooming treatments including manicures and pedicures, and a range of aboriginal-inspired Li'Tya skin and body treatments. For complete indulgence in five-star style, you can also book the "Diamond Luxe" all-day spa package. Costing $670, it includes breakfast at Galileo Restaurant, two courses of Spa Lunch Cuisine, and five hours of treatments including a Diamond Body Perfection Treatment and a La Prairie facial of your choice.
The Spa Experience:
If you crave a skin like a new born baby, or want to strip away the ravages of the seasons, you can't go wrong with the indulgent Diamond Body Perfection treatment. My two-hour session of pampering started with a full-body micro dermabrasion using a puree of micronised diamonds, fresh water pearls and quartz crystals. Then, with my skin invigorated and feeling like polished glass, the more relaxing phase of the treatment began - a gentle yet therapeutic full body massage. The treatment concluded with a generous application of Skin Caviar - a deluxe body cream - which left my skin soft as silk, and literally glowing.
The Verdict:
The Observatory Day Spa is the perfect place to unwind, or indulge in a treatment before a special occasion. But don't forget to bring your swimmers, because no visit is quite complete without a dip in that amazing subterranean pool.
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