Our beauty editor put the luxury spa to the test
Self-love can come in many forms. For some people, this can be a yin yoga class to relax your body and stretch out your muscles, or it may involve vegging in front of the TV, popping a nourishing face mask on and binge-watching episodes on Netflix.
However, sometimes you just want to do absolutely nothing at all, other than be utterly pampered. And boy, do I have just the place for you. I recently popped into The Darling Spa in Sydney, and here’s what I loved about my time there:
#1 / The whole experience is luxurious, from start to finish
From the moment you walk into the hotel, to arriving at the spa on level 2, every surface is spotless, making the environment totally inviting. Every inch of the spa has been considered - the walls and floors are in warm colours, the surfaces are shiny, and the facilities feel really new, like you’re the only person to have ever visited the spa.
What also sets The Darling Spa apart is the level of detail they go to to ensure you have a great time. When I was filling out the guest questionnaire, I spotted a really interesting question: you can actually choose what level of conversation you’d like throughout your treatment - none, informative or social. I don’t know about you, but I’m someone that really enjoys peace and quiet, and there’s nothing worse than needing to make small talk at an appointment when you’d rather be immersed in your treatment.
The Darling Spa is equipped with two relaxation lounges - one is called the Zen Lounge, which features several daybeds for you to rest in (just try and not fall asleep), and the other is the Tea Lounge, which offers a few snacks, such as their really addictive ginger tea.
#2 / The treatment menu is extensive
You’re never short on options when you’re at The Darling Spa, as the treatment menu is extensive and caters to every type of treatment you could want for your face and body. Highlights include the Moroccan Mud Body Treatment that sees you covered in rhassoul clay to detoxify your skin; the Hot Stone Massage that can alleviate tense muscles; and the Darling De-Stress that involves being scrubbed from top to toe to leave you refreshed, inside and out.
As for the newest treatment on the block? It’s called the Platinum Essential Facial and it addresses tired-looking skin and utilises La Prairie’s Platinum Rare collection. Just divine.
#3 / There are lots of facilities that you can use
When you book into a treatment at The Darling, make sure you leave enough time before and after your booking to enjoy the other facilities on offer. There’s an indoor hot tub, Moroccan hammam room, steam room, and you even get access to the outdoor swimming pool at The Darling Hotel.
The Darling Spa Jacuzzi
Altogether, it’s THE place to go when you’re looking for somewhere luxurious to spend some me time in Sydney. You really do lose track of time when you’re inside, and are bound to fill up your ‘self-care meter’ after a treatment or two.
We’re well-versed when it comes to finding the best places to relax. Here’s our round-up of the best spas in Australia.
Have you been to The Darling Spa before? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.
Iantha is BEAUTYcrew's Beauty Editor, and has been part of the team since the site launched in 2016. Besides pinky-nude nail polish and wispy false lashes, she has a healthy obsession with face masks and skin care ingredients. Her previous work can be found in Virgin Australia Voyeur, Women's Health, and SHOP Til You Drop.
