The Weekend Series: treat yo’self – five boutique hotels for a swanky staycation Brisbane and the Gold Coast
If you’ve been working yourself to the bone lately, thoughts have probably drifted towards the prospect of taking a holiday. Unfortunately for most of us, taking an extended amount of time off isn’t possible at this point in time, but that doesn’t mean a vacation must elude us. We are all for the idea of staycations – cheeky weekend sojourns to the fanciest hotel in town. You don’t have to travel far to live it up – both Brisbane and the Gold Coast boast a collection of gorgeous hotels where you can live like a baller for a weekend. We’ve collated a quick list of five excellent boutique hotels in Brisbane and the Gold Coast that make for a perfect staycation spot when you need to recharge your batteries.
Ovolo Inchcolm
Few hotels in Brisbane marry luxury with character as well as Ovolo Inchcolm in Spring Hill. This heritage-listed accommodation option is heavily influenced by the style of generations past – drawing upon its storied history as a Brisbane landmark to create a timeless feel. Guests can stay in one of 50 stylishly appointed rooms and suites, with some rooms featuring freestanding baths and four-poster beds. Before heading out on the town (or staying in if you are comfortable), pay a visit to Salon de Co or Socialites Bar for some luxury you can taste.
QT Gold Coast
If you live in Brisbane then there’s no better weekend away than heading to the coast. Should you already live on the coast, we suggest getting elevated. Either way, your destination should be QT Gold Coast, which soars above the Surfers Paradise skyline with 297 rooms that boast a sleek designer feel. While QT might not seem like a boutique hotel (thanks partly to its size), the little details and attention to eye-catching aesthetics make it a great spot to retreat. As if that wasn’t enough, QT Gold Coast also houses eateries such as Bazaar, Yamagen and the Stingray Lounge.
The Johnson
In the latter half of 2016 a new luxury hotel arrived in Brisbane, inspired by the work of master colourist and artist Michael Johnson. One of the latest in the Art Series Hotels, The Johnson boasts 96 swanky, self-contained suites, three penthouses, a 50-metre pool and an on-site restaurant, Tumbling Stone. Dotted around the premises are several public spaces that feature original paintings and prints from Michael Johnson, which makes this destination a must-try for lovers of both design and art.
Spicers Balfour Hotel
The name Spicers is synonymous with luxury. From beachside hotels to vineyard retreats, boutique accommodation doesn’t get much fancier than this. Spicers Balfour is a chic inner-city location situated in New Farm, just a hop, skip and a jump from Brisbane’s thriving entertainment precinct. This hotel features stunningly designed rooms and suites boasting a smart Art Deco style, in-room Nespresso machines, designer antique furniture, Bose sound systems and cushy bathrobes. Oh, and The Balfour Kitchen is a great spot to enjoy a sumptuous breakfast or dinner – trust us.
Halcyon House
A beach retreat soothes a lot of woes, and if you’ve got a lot of stresses in your live that can be soothed by a weekend away then allow Halcyon House to be your ointment. Located in Cabarita Beach, Halcyon House boasts all the luxury amenities you’d need to feel truly at peace. Don the complimentary robe and slippers, browse the pillow menu while you sip from the mini bar (also complimentary) and consider what you’ll choose for breakfast at Paper Daisy. There are plenty of rooms to choose from, many of which boast stunning ocean views. If cloud-like beds and the sounds of crashing waves don’t ease your mind, then perhaps you simply need to book in for a longer stay.
Image: Halcyon House
Honourable mentions: Gambaro Hotel, TRYP Hotel, Limes Hotel
