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Contrary to what might seem a rational monster contraction, the W Sydney does not derive its name from Wooloomooloo, the curiously named waterside precinct where it is located. This 100-room hotel is a part of the W group that began in New York in the ‘90s. A 10-minute walk from the CBD, the W is set on a finger-like wharf that stretches into Sydney Harbour. The heritage listed building is fawned over by modern Australian architects, and the landmark hotel, a fusion of historic and hip, opened in time for the Sydney Olympics. Much from the work-a-day era including great timber trusses and conveyor belts used for loading grain onto ships have been retained, while designer style adds funk to the historic.

The enormous central atrium is soulless through the day, but come evening part of it, the bar, becomes decidedly intimate. Previous visitors Russell Crowe, Ioan Gruffudd and Christy Turlington may have been attracted to the chic purple and moody red lighting. There is access to marina-side restaurants from the bar. Upmarket leisure travellers are more frequent than families and there is wheelchair access.

The rooms
West rooms look to the CBD skyline over a marina filled with trophy boats through floor to ceiling windows. East rooms look over a naval base and occasional warship. Black and white reprints of 1930s photographs, chaise lounges and dark timber furnishings keep the old world theme. The king size beds with goose-down pillows and comforter are glorious. There are some large loft style rooms (98m²). Many rooms have separate baths and showers. The generously sized baths, while not as deep as the 17metre indoor pool, could almost accommodate a dive. For those drawn to a soaking there are complimentary Aveda products. Bose radios double as CD players and there are walkabout phones.

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