7 of the Coolest Australian Hotels for Design Lovers

If you’ve been following For Guests Only for a while, you’ll know that we tend to gravitate towards boutique hotels that are lesser known and quietly luxurious. Being Aussies (who travel back to Australia once per year), we’re constantly on the lookout for properties back home that fit this bill. And whilst Australian cities have taken a bit longer to enter the international spotlight, with the recent release of Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice awards, in which two Australian cities were named in the Top 10 Best Cities in The World, I figured now would be the perfect time to share some of these gems with you.

Why visit? Australia is home to some of the best and most pristine beaches in the world, incredible dining experiences, great art and cultural institutions, friendly banter and laid-back style, exceptional coffee, and the largest coral reef system in the world. So without further ado…

Victoria

Image courtesy of United Places

United Places Botanic Gardens, Melbourne

Located in the coveted South Yarra neighborhood, United Places is the spot for design-conscious travelers who are looking for a ‘live like the locals’ experience. Here you’ll find handmade ceramic mugs and plates, bath products by cult New York brand Le Labo, and room service from acclaimed chef Scott Pickett’s Matilda 159, offering some of the best modern Aussie cuisine. Easy access to Albert Park Lake (where the Australian Grand Prix is held each year), National Gallery of Victoria, Shrine of Remembrance, and Melbourne City—all a short walk, tram, or car ride away. Mornings here should include a visit to The Gilson (just next-door) for a Melbourne coffee and breaky, and a stroll around ‘the Tan’ (Melbournians flock here for runs and walks), before a day of exploring this vibrant city. Lastly, if you’re celebrating a special occasion during your travels, I highly recommend Donovans on St Kilda Beach for delicious food, homey vibes, and dreamy sunsets overlooking Port Phillip Bay.

Exclusive Be Our Guest Membership Perks when booking through us:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom

• $100USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit for use on mini bar items and/or available neighborhood in-suite dining options to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Image courtesy of Jackalope Hotel

Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula

Jackalope is one of those special experiences that you’ll always remember (trust me, we’ve been 5 times). Situated in Merricks North, between Balnarring and Red Hill, and not too far from beachside towns Flinders, Sorrento, and Portsea (further down the coast), it makes for the perfect weekender or launchpad for exploring the Peninsula. Plan to arrive at 1pm so that you can have lunch at Rare Hare before checking in at 3pm. The hotel really appeals to all types of travelers, and whether you desire R&R or a bit of fun, Jackalope can more than provide for both. There’s a spa offering massages, manicures and pedicures, and facials, an infinity pool overlooking the vineyard, a haute and alchemic cocktail bar, and two dining options—including fine dining restaurant Doot Doot Doot. If you’d rather eat in your room, room service is also excellent. Expect a gourmet breakfast each morning (with the most delicious freshly-squeezed orange juice), a complementary minibar (including alcohol), and an abundance of nightly choc-tops and popcorn to accompany the latest movies in your room (replenished upon request as many times as you like… without judgement). Make sure to take yourself out on the self guided walking trail of the vineyard and grounds whilst you’re there.

Exclusive Be Our Guest Membership Perks when booking through us:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom

• Complimentary set of limited-edition Jackalope pajamas, for up to two guests (must have minimum value of $100 USD equivalent)

• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

New South Wales

Image courtesy of Capella

Capella, Sydney

After seven years of careful planning and execution, Capella Sydney opened this year in a former government (sandstone) building dating back to 1912. It’s truly a feast for the eyes, and if you gush over architectural details (as I do), I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to stay here. Located in the heart of Sydney, just minutes from the Harbour Bridge, it’s the perfect base for first-time tourists. The team has done an exceptional job at preserving the original building, whilst introducing a fresh, modern interior. Guest-rooms are a lesson in quiet, tasteful luxury and sophisticated minimalism—starting at 46 square metres (495 sq ft), they’re also very generous in size. There are three food and beverage offerings, and world-class heath and spa facilities inspired by native traditions.

Exclusive Be Our Guest Membership Perks when booking through us:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom

• $100USD equivalent in local currency Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Image courtesy of Osborn House

Osborn House, Bundanoon

A whimsical countryside retreat in New South Wales’ Southern Highlands, Osborn House brings a touch of the Cotswolds (sans the gloomy weather) just two hours from Sydney and Canberra. The hotel opened in 2022 with 15 luxury suites and 7 self-contained cabins—each distinct and unique from the next. All provide sweeping views of dense forest and undulating hills. There are two restaurants on-site, led by executive chef Segundo Farrell, and wellness facilities are also in abundance with a spa, 25-metre lap pool with retractable roof, tennis court, fitness center, sauna and steam room with cool plunge.

Image courtesy of Raes on Wategos

Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay

I still recall our first experience at Wategos Beach, the lesser-known beach when compared to Byron’s Main Beach but IMO superior in every way—the powdery white sands, natural beauty of the cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and the iconic Raes. Byron is home to numerous hotels, but none as special and storied. The Spanish Mission style building was built in the 60s by local, Ruth Harris, and legend has it the garden and pool were designed by family-friend, Salvador Dalí. Sophisticated travelers flock to the dining room alone for some of the best food in the Bay. No trip to Byron is complete without a trip to Combi Cafe for a smoothie and vegan cheese-toastie. Newrybar and Bangalow are two towns close-by that also shouldn’t go missed. If you have a chance, Harvest Newrybar is an award-winning restaurant, deli and bakery housed in what was the oldest bakery in the country, and the sourdough is truly scrumptious (trust me, I’ve eaten my fair share of loaves).

Image courtesy of Halcyon House

Halcyon House, Cabarita Beach

Located in Cabarita Beach on the Tweed Coast of northern New South Wales, Halcyon House is a stunning beachfront hotel reminiscent of carefree Australian summers. There are 19 rooms and 2 suites in total, all walls upholstered in different fabrics. You’ll spend days poolside with cocktails, relaxing at the spa, and dining at destination restaurant, Paper Daisy—headed by Jason Barratt, who received One Hat (Good Food Guide 2023) this year. There are an abundance of activities to occupy yourself with: surfing, runs along the beach, swimming and walks up to Norries Head. The hotel also keeps a fleet of bicycles for cruising along the beachfront, as well as two cars for road trips to Byron Bay and Bangalow.

Exclusive Be Our Guest Membership Perks when booking through us:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom (already included in hotel rates)

• $100 USD equivalent in local currency credit applicable towards transfers or Hotel Mercedes car hire (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)

• Complimentary Demi of Champagne & Chef Plate in room upon arrival

• Guaranteed Late Check-Out at 12PM, Early Check-In, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Queensland

Image courtesy of The Calile Hotel

The Calile Hotel, Brisbane

We stayed at The Calile last year after lusting over it for quite some time. I’m so glad it’s receiving the international recognition it deserves, having been included in The World’s 50 Best Hotels awards 2023 coming in at 12th place overall. There are some really unique aspects to this hotel including the aesthetically pleasing water filter taps on each floor, and their ‘Friends of Calile’ program. A welcome pack upon arrival includes complementary vouchers for a spritz when dining at one of their many restaurants, and an infrared sauna session at their wellness medispa free of charge. They’ve also partnered with over 70 retailers in the James St Precinct (the uber cool precinct in which the hotel resides) that provide 10% discounts with a flash of your room key card holder—affirming your VIP status. As for the hotel itself, it’s stunning! Muted pastel blues, greens, and pinks, a Miami inspired pool with deck and cabanas, a gym, library, and six in-house restaurants: Lobby Bar, Hellenika, SK Steak & Oyster, Sushi Room, Same Same, and Biànca.