This sleek, refurbished establishment relaxes you instantly with its incredible spacious feeling. Enhanced by the fabulous floor to ceiling windows and giant sized bar shelves, the lobby and restaurant/bar areas are quite welcoming.

Our room was nicely appointed, with all the comforts of home. No balconies, but this is Sydney. We were here to explore and enjoy so in all honestly, we never would have had time to sit on a balcony and watch the world go by.

We had stopped in for a couple of nights to indulge in the delights of Vivid Sydney. As a loyal Accor Plus member, it was an absolute delight to have not only complimentary water delivered to the room, but a personalised tin of sweets as well. A nice, simple, yet welcoming touch.

That extra little step you take to make your loyalty guest feel welcome makes the recipient feel quite special. Well done 👍.

Buffet for breakfast was more than adequate. A selection of hot and cold foods, including pastries and delightful little bottles of yoghurts and muesli. Don’t forget the surprising bread and butter pudding included in the usual hot range! Enjoyable, as well as adding an interesting flavour to breakfast.

The other dining choice for lunch and dinner is The Pump House. On this damp weekend, we did not even have to get wet, just head down the hallway that connects the two venues, and you have an awesome pub atmosphere complete with massive chairs and beautiful fire. Guess where we ended each evening!

The locality of this hotel was simply perfect. With Darling Harbour restaurant and retail complex, Paddy’s Markets and the Chinese Gardens a mere few minutes traffic free stroll from your door, you really don’t want for much.

Facilities have all been revamped, with a very nice, comfortable indoor pool area and sparkling gym. Towels are provided at the pool, you don’t need to pack your own towel, even better when you’re travelling.

Any future visit to Sydney, we would not hesitate to stop in here. Staff, and I mean all staff, went above and beyond to make us welcome. Thank you Novotel Sydney Darling Square (ex Rockford), we hope to return someday!

Check Dine Live Travel on facebook for more photos on this trip!