I love the opulence of this hotel, and love staying here. This exclusive colonial-style property, a 10-minute walk uphill from The Rocks and 15 minutes from Circular Quay (or a stroll down to Wynyard train station), is a turn-of-the-20th-century beauty competing for top-hotel-in-Sydney honors. A name change in mid-2012—it was formerly the Observatory Hotel—has done nothing to change the feel of the place. t’s outfitted with antiques, objects d’art, and the finest carpets, wallpapers, and draperies. t is also renowned for its personalized service. Rooms are plush and quiet, with huge bathrooms. Some rooms have city views; others look out over the harbor. The pool here is one of the best in Sydney. (Note the Southern Hemisphere constellations on the roof.) The day spa is also one of the most exclusive in the city, as is the hotel’s restaurant, Galileo.