Darling Manor IBO - Hosted by L'Abode

What We Love

Perched majestically above Sydney Harbour in the city's most storied precinct, this extraordinary heritage mansion captures the essence of Sydney's colonial past whilst offering an unrivalled luxury experience. Originally crafted in the 1840s and lovingly restored with exacting attention to historical detail, Darling Manor stands as both an architectural masterpiece and exclusive harbourside haven. With its iconic location on Sydney's glittering waterfront and exceptional entertaining spaces throughout, this distinguished residence presents a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Australia's rich past whilst indulging in discreet contemporary luxuries.

Stay:
Experience exceptional comfort across seven luxuriously appointed bedrooms, each uniquely styled with period elegance and modern amenities. Rooms feature queen or double beds with rich wooden detailing and sumptuous navy and neutral bedding that complements the heritage aesthetic. These sanctuary-like spaces showcase ornate fireplaces with original mantles, antique dressing tables and thoughtfully placed seating areas upholstered in period-appropriate fabrics. Each suite offers its own distinct character—some with elegant curtained alcoves, others with dramatic wooden headboards featuring intricate carvings that speak to the property's 1840s origins. All bedrooms include private ensuite bathrooms with designer fixtures and underfloor heating. Several suites feature adjoining private lounges with period furnishings, creating intimate retreats within the grand mansion.

Host:
Darling Manor unfolds as a showcase of Australia's colonial architectural splendour, with multiple elegant living spaces that invite both relaxation and sophisticated entertaining. The formal drawing room features exquisite floral drapery with traditional swag valances framing tall windows that flood the spaces with natural light. The dining area centres around an impressive oval marble table surrounded by upholstered chairs in subtle grey tones, creating an elegant setting for memorable meals beneath ornate ceiling medallions. This space flows seamlessly to built-in bookcases housing selected book volumes that add scholarly gravitas to the room's refined ambiance. The gourmet kitchen marries heritage charm with culinary functionality, featuring warm wooden cabinetry, double sinks, parquetry flooring and a traditional black AGA hot plate and stove unit —perfectly balancing period authenticity with modern convenience.

Throughout the property, white marble fireplaces with intricately carved mantles serve as focal points in nearly every room. The extensive built-in library houses leather-bound collections, while walls adorned with heritage artwork and antique fixtures transport visitors to Sydney's elegant past. Modern amenities are seamlessly integrated, including central air conditioning and heating, high-speed WiFi, smart home technology with integrated entertainment systems, and a comprehensive security system. The property boasts a private courtyard garden ideal for outdoor entertaining, multiple formal entertaining spaces with period furnishings, and a private terrace offering harbour views. Practical conveniences include full laundry facilities, lift and stair access throughout, a private driveway with parking for three vehicles.

Explore:
Beyond your private sanctuary lies The Rocks—Australia's most evocative historic quarter—where cobblestone laneways wind past sandstone buildings, historic pubs, and vibrant weekend markets. The culinary landscape ranges from casual waterfront eateries to acclaimed fine dining establishments. Gleaming ferries from Circular Quay invite exploration, while the Opera House, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Royal Gardens offer cultural enrichment within walking distance.

Event & Corporate Hire:
Darling Manor offers an unparalleled setting for exclusive events and corporate functions, combining historical gravitas with modern convenience. The property's multiple formal entertaining spaces, featuring period furnishings and ornate architectural details, create an atmosphere of distinction impossible to replicate in conventional venues. The private courtyard garden provides a sublime outdoor entertaining option, while the gourmet kitchen can accommodate professional catering for gatherings of various sizes. Corporate clients appreciate the property's comprehensive technology infrastructure, central location just minutes from Sydney's business district, and exceptional transport connections. . With its unique heritage status and prestigious harbour-front location, Darling Manor elevates any gathering from ordinary to extraordinary, creating memorable experiences in one of Sydney's most historically significant private venues.


Some Fab Features
- Central location, minutes from Sydney Harbour and Opera House
- Prestigious heritage-listed property dating back to the 1840s
- Ornate period features
- Built-in library with extensive collection
- Gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances
- Seven uniquely styled bedrooms
- Eight bathrooms with underfloor heating
- Private garden courtyard for outdoor entertaining
- Private deck featuring harbour views
- Multiple formal entertaining spaces
- Lift and stair access throughout the property
- Driveaway parking for three cars
- Air-conditioning and heating throughout
- High-speed WiFi
- Event and location hire capabilities
- Full laundry facilities with washer and dryer
- Secure entry system and security features
- Longer stays welcome
- Event Hire & Photoshoot Hire on request


Bedding Configuration
- Bedroom 1: 1 x Queen BED with Ensuite (Level 1)
- Bedroom 2: 1 x Double BED with Ensuite (Level 1)
- Bedroom 3: 1 x Double BED with Ensuite (Level 2)
- Bedroom 4: 1 x Double BED with Ensuite (Level 2)
- Bedroom 5: 1 x Double BED with Ensuite (Level 2)
- Bedroom 6: 1 x Double BED with Ensuite (Level 2 and 3)
- Bedroom 7: 1 x Queen BED with Ensuite (Level 3)

There are 11 bathrooms in total, Bedroom 1, 3 & 6 all have 2 bathrooms plus one general bathroom in the lobby.

You will have access to the entire place for the duration of your stay.

Home Truths:
Refundable Security Bond
- To ensure the protection of this exceptional property, a refundable security bond is required for all bookings. The bond amount varies depending on the nature of the stay:
- Luxe Accommodation Stays: $13,000
- Events: From $7,000
- Photoshoots & Location Hire: From $1,500
- Please note: Luxe stays are subject to a separate set of terms, including a strict 60-day cancellation policy. Full details will be provided upon enquiry or booking.
- Please note there are strictly no parties or gatherings at this property unless prior approved for event hire purposes. L'Abode Accommodation reserves the right to decline any bookings if we believe the property will be misused. Please be mindful of our neighbours and keep noise to a minimum after 10pm.

Thank you in advance for respecting the above.