Going on an Australian holiday? Our admittedly design-obsessed team has got you covered. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite Aussie stays so you’ll spend less time on Google and more time, well, on holiday. Consider this your need-to-know guide of the coolest and chicest stays in Australia. Don’t worry, there’s somewhere for everyone.
Plan your next vacation around one of these must-see hotels or spend a few days at each, we won’t judge.
The Beachfront Escape: Raes on Wategos
Byron Bay
When you enter on Raes on Wategos' tree-lined driveway, you’ll feel like you’re pulling up to a luxurious beach home rather than a hotel. With 7 unique apartments that have effortlessly blended an Indonesian influence with modern style, this elegant beachfront escape is an idyllic backdrop to your easy, breezy summer days.
Sydney-based interior designer, Tamsin Johnson, opted to let Byron’s surrounding tropical environment steal the show, and simply designed around the idea that guests would wake up to enjoy the day poolside with a spritz. Not to mention, Wategos Beach is every beach-lover’s dream.
With Raes on Wategos’ effortless balance of comfort, beauty and simplicity, we may never be checking out.
PHOTOS VIA RAES ON WATEGOS
The Urban Resort: The Calile Hotel
Brisbane
Located in the infamous James Street precinct, this urban hotel draws on the surrounding landscape and climate to serve a super-cool resort-style experience right in the heart of Brisbane that’s basically every designer’s dream. Every bit as charming and sophisticated as it sounds, The Calile Hotel has made the James Street experience a lifestyle destination nothing short of luxurious.
This hotel is pure gold, literally; you'll spot gold accents peppered throughout the entire property, courtesy of Brisbane designers Richard & Spence. Echoing the warm environment and surrounding landscape, the hotel is painted in a fresh coat of warm hues (think dusty pinks, elegant golds, and sandy hues).
The warm climate lends itself to outdoor living pretty much year round. Richard & Spence took advantage of this with a centrally located pool terrace with poolside cabanas, picturesque palm trees and European-style umbrellas. The 175 rooms are equipped with curved ceilings and arches galore, and embrace the ideal outdoor living with poolside balconies and natural ventilation.
PHOTOS VIA THE CALILE HOTEL BY SEAN FENNESSY
The Laid Back Surfer’s Hangout: Halcyon House
Cabarita Beach
An elegant boutique hotel, Halcyon House, with loads of character just steps away from every surfer’s paradise, Cabarita Beach. A relaxed yet chic hotel, this beachside stay was purposefully designed with outdoor relaxation in mind (think nautical and Mediterranean pool vibes) and you’ll never want to leave.
The 21 boutique rooms boast an unexpected yet somehow brilliant marriage of ornate patterns and vintage furnishings, each designed by Brisbane designer Anna Spiro.
Halcyon House is the ideal place to recharge, and the sunny weather makes it a great stay for any time of year. Spend your day zenning out in their spa, testing out the waves with a personal surf lesson, or lazing the day away poolside with a cocktail. They even have a 7-Day Itinerary to help you plan your stay.
An afternoon spritz by the pool? Say no more. This award-winning beach stay is must-see.
PHOTO VIA CONDE NAST TRAVELLER
PHOTOS VIA HALCYON HOUSE
The Serene Vineyard Stay: Jackalope Hotel
Mornington Peninsula
Far from your typical vineyard experience, the hotel boasts a bold, modern and moody take on vineyard staying. The contemporary, sleek and stylish rooms are outfitted with floor to ceiling windows so guests never lose site of the striking farms.
Spend your afternoons in the infinity pool with views out to the surrounding Willow Creek Vineyard, and nights at one of the hotel’s own winery restaurants overlooking the tree-lined hills.
Known for their elegant single vineyard wines, guests will sip their way through the vineyard-clad hills.
Take it from us, this luxurious modern stay is a must-visit.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARYN CAIRNS, VIA JACKALOPE HOTEL
