A short interlude at a top Sydney hotel puts a spring in an H&G stylist's step.

The Observatory Hotel by Orient-Express is a delightful boutique hotel, positioned in the heart of the Sydney CBD, close to The Rocks. On my recent overnight stay, I was welcomed through the marble-floored lobby and grand staircase into the hotel's colonial setting, which is reminiscent of a 19th -century mansion. Dark, heavy wood and rich fabrics are incorporated into the decor throughout.

I was whisked down to the on-site day spa and after changing into my luxurious white robe, I was treated to their signature full body Lava Shell massage treatment. Self-heating tiger clam shells generate heat through contact with gels derived from sea kelp, Dead Sea salts and natural minerals. My muscle tension melted away and after 60 minutes, I was left feeling completely calm and soothed.

From the spa, you can see the hotel's 20-metre indoor pool, offering swimming with a celestial twist. The ceiling is dotted with fibre-optic lights recreating the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere.

Next, I was taken to the Drawing Room where my partner and I were offered a lovely high tea spread and a chance to meet the other guests. We enjoyed a selection of cucumber sandwiches, scones with fresh jam and cream, mini crème brulees, among lots of other yummy things. As well as a lucky draw where one lucky person had a star named after them.

We were then allowed to do as we pleased for the remainder of the afternoon - unfortunately it started pouring rain just as I left the hotel in the direction of The Rocks Sunday markets. So I decided to take cover in a quick taxi ride to the city's shopping precinct instead.

Later that afternoon, my partner came back to the hotel with me, and we were shown to our room for the night. The room was beautifully decorated in the same colonial style, with dark mahogany furnishings, and rich tapestry curtains surrounding the window with views of the harbour and Balmain beyond.

I was disappointed that the hotel's five star French style restaurant, Galileo, was not open the night we were staying, however we enjoyed dinner and wine in the Globe Bar & Brasserie.

It was such a pleasant change to wake up on a Monday morning, and walk to work from the luxurious hotel, rather than from home. I felt like a star!

The Observatory Hotel at 89-113 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000; (02) 9256 2222.