The best boutique hotels and lodges are in our own backyard
Whether you are looking for a central launch pad or a luxe lodging, here are the best boutique hotels in Australia to visit this year.
The pandemic’s international travel limitations have made us value the incredible destinations sequestered within our own borders – and the unique boutique hotels that provide a luxurious home away from home. “Australia’s natural beauty is what makes our lodges and boutique hotels stand out,” says Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison.
In 2019, Tourism Australia announced a “new era” of boutique hotel development, thanks to changing consumer preferences and the rise in experiential travel. Although Covid-19 has disrupted the timeline – 300 new or updated properties were projected to open by 2025 – domestic demand is stronger than ever. “As we emerge from this pandemic our wide-open spaces will be even more desirable; travellers don’t have to compromise on comfort to explore our natural surrounds,” she says.
There’s something for every type of trip, whether you’re searching for a central launch pad or a luxe lodging that’s a destination unto itself. For discerning travellers, here are the seven best boutique hotels that remind us there’s no place quite like Australia.
Paramount House Hotel, Sydney, NSW
Despite its modern facade, the Paramount House Hotel in Sydney’s Surry Hills is steeped in history; it is located in an Art Deco building that once belonged to Paramount Pictures, and has a vintage screening room, which now runs as the aptly-named Golden Age Cinema. It’s unlike any other boutique hotel experience in Sydney, and provides a perfect staycation launch pad to experience the surrounding cafes, galleries and bars. When you’re done for the day, you can decamp downstairs to the cinema and catch a classic film screening.
Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula, VIC
The acclaimed Jackalope Hotel stands out among other lodgings on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria’s winemaking mecca which is located an hour outside of Melbourne. Luxurious guest rooms and suites overlook the region’s rolling hills, which beckon guests to explore the surrounding boutique wineries. Make sure you visit the on-site gallery, which features work from revered British artist Tracey Emin and fashion designer Rick Owens.
Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach, NSW
The quintessential beach hotel, Halcyon Hotel is located on the white sands of Cabarita Beach, a half-hour drive from bustling Byron Bay. The 21-room boutique property was fashioned by Australian interior designer Anna Spiro and features powder blue walls, upholstered floral bedheads and woven bistro chairs. It’s also home to Paper Daisy, a hatted restaurant helmed by chef Jason Barratt.
COMO The Treasury, Perth, WA
Luxury hotel brand COMO chose Perth’s historic 19th-century state building as the perfect location for its first foray into the Australian market. The 48-room property features a serene neutral palette – think travertine stone tiles, upholstered furniture, and ash wood details – that creates a welcome respite in the heart of the city. It’s an excellent choice for a local stay for those who are unable to travel due to border restrictions in Western Australia.
Freycinet Lodge, Coles Bay, TAS
Tasmania’s most memorable spots are arguably where the rugged landscape meets the sea, like at Coles Bay, northwest of Hobart. Here lies one of Australia’s most striking boutique hotels, Freycinet Lodge. After a day of exploring the Tasmanian tundra and the glassy waters of Great Oyster Bay, guests can dine at the scenic Bay Restaurant and enjoy locally-sourced produce. You can’t look past this option for the ultimate off-the-grid hideaway.
Mount Lofty House, Adelaide Hills, SA
Mount Lofty House was one of South Australia’s best-known private homes for over a century, before being converted into a five-star hotel. Located in the Adelaide Hills wine region, the award-winning property is home to Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant and Arthur Waterhouse Lounge, which are must-visits for both guests and local visitors – not only for the exceptional menu, but also for the extensive Australian and international wine list.
Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart, TAS
The Henry Jones Art Hotel inhabits a 19th-century warehouse next to the River Derwent in Hobart. The hotel interlinks modern amenities with old-world designs; rooms feature original brick inlays alongside clean-lined accents, and windows that overlook the famous river. An ideal visit for art aficionados, the hotel displays local artists in residence and offers tours to explore their expansive collection of Tasmanian artwork. There’s something for everyone here.