The Hottest Hotel Openings in May

These new Australian guest accommodations refect their stylish surrounds, writes Ellie Schneider.

QT Bondi, Sydney

Since the closure of Swiss Grand Hotel, Bondi has been crying out for a new high-end hotel to complement its seaside location. It has now been reimagined as QT Bondi, a funky boutique hotel with 69 individually styled luxury suites. Designed by Nic Graham (his portfolio includes W Hotel Hong Kong), every element has been thoughtfully considered to suit Bondi’s laid-back lifestyle. Balconies and open spaces allow guests to breathe the salty air, while the front desk (above) is stocked with beach towels. There’s no restaurant or bar on site – a good excuse to dive into the vibrant local dining scene. On Saturday, get your fill of organic produce at the farmers’ market next door. This is Bondi, after all.

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Brae, Victoria

Award-winning Brae restaurant has teamed up with Six Degrees Architects to expand its offering with six luxury guest suites. The environmentally friendly accommodation, in Birregurra, mirrors the aesthetic of Brae’s venerable dining room with custom fittings in brass, steel and timber. Each suite features a king-size bed, a Thorens turntable with a solid record collection (David Bowie, Miles Davis, Nick Cave and Beck), a wine fridge and a bathroom with views across The Otways. Breakfast is served in your room and includes wood-fired sourdough bread and pastries, as well as produce harvested from the property. Accommodation is reserved for diners only, available as part of a lunch or dinner package.

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort has unveiled its refurbishment of 146 of its 294 rooms as part of a $40 million upgrade. The new-look Mirage Resort Rooms, Lagoon Rooms and Studio Suites feature driftwood-tile floors, crisp furnishings and stone-topped minibars. Fork out a little more for a handsome Lagoon Edge Studio Suite, with a swim-out balcony providing direct access to the saltwater lagoon pools. Four Mile Beach is on the resort’s doorstep and there’s a golf course, tennis court and fitness centre within the lush tropical grounds. The final phase of the resort’s upgrade will include a new buffet restaurant, Feast.

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