Known for its sunny disposition and a welcome as warm as the weather, Queensland’s subtropical capital is going through a renaissance. There’s a vibe in the air and Brisbane’s glorious sunshine has nothing to do with it. (Well, it might have something to do with it). A wave of great new cafes, restaurants and bars, a thriving culture scene, a jam-packed events calendar, and all in an environment that inspires relaxation and outdoor living – Brisbane is a city transformed. As part of the revival, the Queensland capital has welcomed more than 25 new hotels in recent years, adding further appeal to an already cosmopolitan city. Here are the best luxury hotels in Brisbane to bed down.

Luxury Hotels In Brisbane

The Calile, Fortitude Valley

Filled with designer stores, bustling bars and restaurants, and a veteran of the city’s arthouse cinema scene, James Street has always radiated a holiday vibe. And the stretch of road that borders Fortitude Valley and New Farm has an excellent place to stay: The Calile.

Opening late in 2018, the 175-room spot isn’t the first hotel on the street, but it is the first to call itself a resort — and it takes that term seriously. A stunning pool takes centre stage, enticing you to splash the day away. When you’re not in the water, cabanas and sun lounges will call your name, and there’s an outdoor deck where you can nab something to eat. You can also enjoy a Greek feast at Hellenika restaurant, or hang out in the lobby bar. Back in your room, you’ll find a focus on all things natural, including oak furniture, cork floors and sisal matting in the bathrooms, day beds for afternoon naps, linen robes and a minibar stocked from local suppliers.

The Westin, CBD

Brisbanites can be excused for feeling a sigh of relief about The Westin. Now that it exists, the huge hole in the ground that blighted Mary and Margaret Streets for years and years is finally gone. And it’s a case of good things coming to those who wait, with the hotel giving the city its very first swim-up bar.

The kind of attraction that you’d usually find on an island, by the coast or just somewhere other than an inner city street, the Nautilus is located in the middle of Westin’s 300-square-metre swimming pool — and features views over the city, too. Sounds like the only excuse we all need for a staycation in one of the hotel’s 299 rooms and suites. Although cabanas, deckside yoga classes, an onsite jazz bar and a 150-person restaurant all help as well.

The Constance 

deally located for anyone keen on spending most of their night away out on the town, The Constance is just on the very edge of Fortitude Valley’s vibing nightlife precinct, and ties right in to the area with street art adorning every inch of the hotel. You don’t even have to go far from your room to find a good cocktial—Dirty Sultan rooftop bar is right upstairs, with roofside lounges and Turkish delight cocktails awaiting you. If you need a reason to head back to your room before sunrise, book one of the King With Spa suites and soak your future hangover away.

Emporium Hotel

Out-of-towners looking to live it up for a few days, look no further than the Parisienne decadence of South Brisbane’s Emporium Hotel. You’ll find 143-suites of French-chic comfort, including cloud-like beds, Bose sound systems, double vanity ensuites and Molton Brown amenities. Collectively, they’re the closest thing you’ll find to Paris in Queensland, minus the hefty transit time. Farewell time venturing through South Bank’s entertainment precinct, chowing down on croissants at onsite patisserie, Belle Epoque or knocking back a bottle of champagne upon South Brisbane’s only rooftop bar. Best of all, they’re currently offering a staycation package with breakfast, lunch and dinner included for just $260 a night. This is one of the best luxury hotels in Brisbane you should stay.

Ovolo The Valley

Still in Fortitude Valley, design-led hotel group Ovolo has also moved into the neighbourhood, further enhancing the suburb’s creative cred. Renowned for boundary-pushing boutique hotels, Ovolo celebrates the eclectic culture and rich history of its new inner-city home with a frenzy of colour and playful design. Wild wallpaper, eccentric furniture and eye-catching art combine to tell the story of the Valley while plush rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, gym, sauna and a unique meeting room make for a fabulous stay. And keep watching this space. A bar and kitchen concept is in the making and slated for a mid-year opening. With collaborating chef Justin North and interiors firm Luchetti Krelle behind the project, it promises to be something special.