Best Independent Style Hotels in Australia

This was Australia’s first-ever dedicated art hotel, exhibiting works from local artists. Set beside the capital’s waterfront, The Henry Jones comprises a series of industrial warehouses that once served as the IXL jam factory (its live jazz bar and cafe are named after this). Dating back to the 1820s, the building is now a multi-award winning hotel. But the heritage can be seen in sandstone walls, exposed-beam ceilings, spiral staircases and vintage fireplaces, alongside modern features like whirlpool baths, Nespresso machines, organic indigenous toiletries and quirky design features. It also has two very good restaurants — Landscape and Peacock and Jones.

This Art Deco-era Heritage Building took on new life welcoming high-end travellers in 2015. It is found in the hub of the city, the central business district, and is a serene, sophisticated and plush oasis. Guests can expect to find L’Occitane toiletries, a minibar stocked with complimentary local treats and media hubs and standard; those staying in the Executive category suites also benefit from Nespresso machines, a daily fruit bowl and local chocolates at turndown. The restaurant, with a menu featuring the likes of steak, seafood and caviar, is located in the basement, while the opulent Hennessy Bar occupies the Mayfair’s 13th floor rooftop.

Named after, and inspired by, the late Adam Cullen, a native artist with a unique style, The Cullen is a Prahran Hotel with a daring approach. The hotel, which opened in 2009, is filled with Cullen’s offbeat contemporary art, which guests can also purchase. Sleep in an Art Series Signature Bed, revel in the rarity of a Melbourne hotel balcony, dine in two super cool eateries (Gramercy Social and HuTong Dumpling Bar), borrow an eco-car and take one of the Lekker loaner bikes for a spin. Its situation is a little off the tourist trail, adding to The Cullen’s bohemian cred.

Smack bang in the middle of Brisbane’s busy CBD (central business district) Amora is a recently renovated upmarket hotel which appeals to business travellers, couples and families alike. Light and spacious with little clutter to detract from its pure design, it has 296 guest rooms of which the top, fourteenth floor offer balcony suites. The Dapl restaurant offers hearty but refined modern Australian cuisine and is a must-try for any guest.

The Royce, located on Melbourne’s iconic St Kilda Road, pays homage to the golden age and glamour of the original Rolls Royce showroom. Guests can indulge in uncompromising quality and luxury from one of the 96 rooms, most of which offer balconies with views of the city’s skyline. Breakfast is served in The Conservatory, surrounded by lush greenery, and the hotel is a gateway to the National Gallery of Victoria and the Arts Centre.

Chippendale is a nice choice for a stay in Sydney, being only 5 minutes away from the city centre. It’s also home to the Old Clare Hotel, a luxury conversion from two historic buildings. Previously a brewer’s headquarters, today its heritage features come together in a 62-room boutique hotel with style and character. Look out for the soaring ceilings, exposed brick and amazing lighting installations – all different in every room. You’re spoiled for choice for dining options including Kensington St. Social from star British chef, Jason Atherton. There is a rooftop pool but is under renovation so check the website for updates. There’s a gym if you want to work out or head out into the city on the bikes available to rent.

Situated in Hobart’s central business district’s waterfront, this hotel tells the story of its neighbourhood’s history. 114 bedrooms display the area’s character in five separate themes, with an eclectic feel created by interior designer Pike Withers. Expect bold colours and surprising features that are contrasted by natural textiles and patinated brass. The Old Wharf restaurant celebrates local growers and Tasmanian ingredients, creating traditional family-style dishes, while The Story Bar features live music on Friday and Saturday nights, the Evolve Spirits Bar showcases nearby distillers’ produce and the Lounge serves oysters and vino to a backdrop of Aboriginal artefacts.

Established by the creators of the popular Little Creatures brewery, Alex Hotel is ideal for guests who are looking for something a little different. The hotel has quickly earned a reputation for being one of the best boutique establishments in the whole city and culture vultures are sure to be in their element. While each of the 74 guest rooms are comfortable and stylish, the hotel really comes into its own in the communal areas which include an honesty bar and pantry stocked with Margaret River wines, craft beers and complimentary olives. Of course, guests will also be able to sample all of the beers that the Little Creatures brewery is famous for in the fresh and funky rooftop bar and a special guided tour of the brewery is also granted to guests upon request.

The StandardX, Melbourne, situated in the vibrant Fitzroy district, draws inspiration from the area’s storied past. Fitzroy’s creative energy from the 70s and 80s, marked by influential artists and punk clubs, influences the hotel’s design and atmosphere. Melbourne-based design firm Hecker Guthrie has crafted interiors featuring local art, custom furniture, and a contemporary, uncomplicated aesthetic.

The hotel features three distinct dining concepts. BANG, led by Executive Chef Justin Dingle-Garciyya, offers a sophisticated take on Thai street food with bold Asian flavours. The Roof, an exclusive guest hideaway, provides panoramic views of Fitzroy and Melbourne, with a menu inspired by Mercado Medellin’s flavours. The Box, located in the lobby, offers a retail experience with essentials, lifestyle items, snacks, and beverages.

Each of the 125 rooms at The StandardX, Melbourne, blends Fitzroy’s gritty urban fabric with modern comforts and The Standard’s signature style. From intimate Cozy King rooms to spacious Suite Spots with city skyline views, the hotel offers a contemporary, uncomplicated aesthetic for discerning travellers.

Located in Surry Hills, ADGE offers self-contained serviced apartments in the trendiest area of the city for shopping, dining and nightlife. At the same time as being contemporary cool, the ADGE is modern luxury. You’re greeted by an oversized psychedelic mural and polished concrete fronts which lead to immaculate open-plan suites dressed in monochrome apart from the eye-wateringly bright neon-striped carpet, all with a balcony. If you choose to self-cater, a personal shopping service is available and if not, there are two restaurants and a bar. Other facilities include a laundry, fitness room and in-house hair styling service. An excellent base for sightseeing, ADGE Aparthotel is just under two miles from Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

This luxurious resort is the perfect place for golfing fanatics to stay as it comes complete with its very own 27-hole golf course. The enchanting sands of Surfers Paradise Beach are also just a short stroll away, while guests are provided with stunning views of the beach from the picture windows and balconies of their spacious double guest room. The RACV Royal Pines Resort 5.0 boasts more than three hundred rooms to choose from and in addition to a large and lovely swimming pool guests are invited to make full use of the tennis courts, fitness centre and other perfectly maintained amenities.

The EVE Hotel Sydney is a tranquil retreat in a neighbourhood filled with everything you need during your stay. The hotel offers serene accommodation options that have been specially designed to allow for relaxation and connection with nature. There is a selection of luxurious guestrooms and suites with the hotel’s premier accommodation, The EVE Suite, overlooking the Wunderlich Lane precinct. Rooftop dining is available at Lottie, where a bold combination of local and Mexican flavours meet in an idyllic setting. Bar Julius Lobby Bar invites guests to try expertly crafted drinks in a lavish setting surrounded by art. The hotel boasts a 20-metre rooftop pool with private cabanas and offers poolside dining throughout the day. Guests can enjoy the on-site fitness facilities and access to nearby spa treatments and The Parlour Room.