SLEEP - BRISBANE

With mammoth regeneration projects underway, change is afoot in Queensland’s capital — and a stylish crop of new hotels, restaurants and cultural spaces means it’s never looked better.

- Justin Meneguzzi

Always the bridesmaid, but never the bride — travellers in search of a city break have often overlooked Brisbane in favour of Melbourne or Sydney, while those making the visit have often stayed only as long as it took to escape to the beaches of the Sunshine Coast. But that’s history. With its sights set on hosting the 2032 Olympics, Brisbane is all about the future, with a wave of new hotels, restaurants, bars and cultural venues transforming Australia’s third-largest city into a destination that rivals its southern siblings. There’s the Galley of Modern Art, the eye-popping street art on Fish Lane and the nightlife of Howard Smith Wharves, plus Fortitude Valley’s heady mix of rock, queer, glam and pub culture. As for the hotels, the choice has never been better, ranging from New Age razzle-dazzle to the quieter charm of refurbished historical stays. But the city’s reasonably compact size means no matter where you rest your head, you’ll never be far from the action.

Best for the stylish set

THE CALILE HOTEL

A lack of beaches in Brisbane hasn’t stopped The Calile Hotel from introducing its own subtropical vibes to the city. Every detail — from the pink granite to the geometric lamps — has been carefully selected, resulting in rooms that feel warm and elegant. Drag yourself from the poolside cabana and you’ll find Ada Lane, where global fashion brands are squeezed between local boutiques and gelaterias. Book a table for Greek-inspired fare at the in-house restaurant, Hellenika.

ROOMS: From A$329 (£180). thecalilehotel.com