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Read up on the latest venues to unveil a new look or throw open its doors
$ 70 million refurb for Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
The five-star Sofitel Sydney Wentworth officially unveiled its $ 70 million refurbishment in late 2024 .
Ushering in a new era of Frenchinspired luxury and understated grandeur , the rebirth of one of Sydney ’ s most iconic hotels coincided with the Diamond Jubilee of the global Sofitel brand , celebrating 60 years of embodying French art de vivre all over the world .
Created by Qantas in the 1960s , Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has a storied history spanning over half a century . Central to the hotel ’ s refurbishment vision was reigniting the ‘ 60s jet-set glamour , which characterised its original charm when it opened as Australia ’ s premier international five-star hotel , attracting royals , movie stars and dignitaries . The aim was to modernise this golden era for the 21 st century .
The refurbishment encompassed 436 guest rooms and suites , the Sofitel Club Millésime , a health and wellness centre , public spaces including the grand entrance lobby , and state-ofthe-art conference and event spaces .
Pivotal to the transformation is Sofitel Sydney Wentworth ’ s partnership with hospitality group House Made Hospitality . They have created a multi-venue drinking and dining precinct within the hotel with two restaurants and two bars ( one of which is one of Sydney ’ s largest outdoor terrace bars ).
The new grand entrance features a sleek bronze façade allowing passersby to gain a preview of the refreshed hotel lobby . A striking lighting feature illuminates the way in , inspired by the time-honoured Sofitel ritual of being taken to your room by candlelight .
The open plan ground floor lobby provides subtle nods to the 1960s heritage of the property and offers vibrant pockets of space . There is also a series of lounge settings for guests to relax , with glimpses of a restaurant beyond . Modern features are aplenty with self-check-in kiosks designed to provide a seamless arrival .
For meetings and events there are 15 spaces , including the grand Wentworth Ballroom which caters for up to 750 for a sit-down lunch or dinner . All event spaces have been fitted with cuttingedge technology ; a highlight of which is the installation of one of Australia ’ s largest LED screens in the Grand Ballroom . S
Hilton to debut in Palm Cove
Hilton will be opening a new hotel in 2026 , in Palm Cove in Tropical North Queensland , which is approximately 25 minutes from Cairns and 40 minutes south of Port Douglas . The property will be called Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa .
Joining the nearby Hilton Cairns and DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns , the existing hotel on the site will be fully refurbished to Hilton standards and is expected to open in Q1 . It will have 140 rooms , an outdoor swimming pool , two dining outlets , an all-day dining restaurant , two bars , a kids ’ club , a fitness centre , a spa and
450 square metres of function and meeting space .
Hilton area vice president APAC and head of Australasia , Paul Hutton said Palm Cove marks the company ’ s fourth new hotel signing in Australasia in 2024 : “ Palm Cove , with its growing tourism sector and vibrant local economy , presents a significant market opportunity and we believe Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa is set to become a standout resort , attracting both domestic and international travelers to this beautiful region .” S
36 Executive PA | Summer Issue 2025