With their cutting-edge design and tailored experiences, boutique hotels appeal to travellers in search of a sense of connection. Increasingly, consumers are seeking small, luxury hotels which offer a range of immersive experiences, fine food and wine and high levels of service.

As a result of their growing popularity, boutique and lifestyle hotels offering authentic experiences are in demand from investors seeking higher yields and are often located in regional locations that are set to become must-visit destinations.

Tourism Australia has compiled a list of new and under construction boutique hotels in Australia, with owners set to capitalise on the trend of visitors seeking an emotional connection and point of differentiation in their hotel selection choices. 

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SELECTION OF NEW AND UPCOMING BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN AUSTRALIA

Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays

The most secluded island retreat in the Whitsundays and the first solar powered resort on the Great Barrier Reef, Elysian promises guests a blissful escape from the crowds. Restored in December 2018, this new sustainable luxury eco resort offers a luxurious all-inclusive retreat catering to its maximum of 20 guests and a small team of dedicated staff, including a private chef. Boasting a locally sourced island menu, personalised organic spa treatments and aquatic adventures to cater to individual needs, Elysian is the perfect place to slow down and immerse your senses in nature and island life.

The Tasman, Hobart

Journey to the 1800s with a stay at this architecturally stunning and historically rich destination in the heart of Tasmania's capital. The Tasman is set to boast 152 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites with carefully restored features when opening in September 2020. Room designs will comprise of a modern interpretation of Art Deco style expressed through an uncomplicated setting. Embracing its rich heritage and the distinct character of its locale, the hotel will integrate seamlessly with Hobart's breathtaking scenery and culture.

Sequioa Mount Lofty House, Adelaide Hills

South Australia will soon have a new boutique hotel with the final redevelopment stage at award-winning Mount Lofty House underway. Named ‘Sequoia’, the development, which will sit separate from Mount Lofty House, will include 15 luxury villas positioned on the front escarpment of Mount Lofty Estate offering unparalleled views of the Piccadilly Valley. Each of the spacious villas will feature private balconies overlooking the valley, fireplaces and views from every angle. Sequoia is scheduled to open late-2019.

Lon Retreat, Point Lonsdale

Taking over the former residence of Lonsdale Views, Lon Retreat has 360-degree views of Ocean Grove, the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse and the Heads (the perilous entry point to Port Phillip Bay). Opened in late 2018, with only seven individually designed luxury suites, meaning it’s perfect for a secluded getaway. The suites stick to a pared-back, earthy colour scheme with plenty of locally sourced and crafted ceramics, light fittings, art and furniture throughout the building. Guests also have access to a private beach, bar, gardens, a lounge with an open fireplace and a mineral spa.

Quay Perth, Perth

In June 2019, Perth welcomed the addition of another boutique hotel, with Quay Perth. The 80-room hotel is part of the Louis T Collection and takes inspiration from Western Australia’s natural landscape and Perth's laid-back vibe, offering a co-live, co-work and co-play destination. The multi-million-dollar redevelopment has completely transformed the former hotel, with new guest rooms and public areas, all-day sidewalk eatery Community at Quay, a chic rooftop bar and restaurant HQ Bar & Kitchen, plus innovative co-working spaces offering sweeping views of Elizabeth.

Midnight Hotel, Canberra

Due to open in late 2019, independent hotel operator Iconic Hotels is on track to deliver its first premium hotel brand, Midnight Hotel. Midnight Hotel will be the eighth hotel delivered to market by Iconic Hotels, the hotels division of leading independent property developer, Geocon. Featuring 199 premium rooms, a restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool, wellness centre, conference and event spaces and guest lounge, the hotel is part of Geocon’s $200 million development in Braddon, central Canberra.

Kings Canyon Resort, Kings Canyon

Kings Canyon Resort has launched six premium glamping tents, offering visitors a chance to experience Australia’s Red Centre in comfort and style. Offering modern accommodation amenities in the heart of the outback landscape, the new homestead-style luxury tents will include premium linen, air-conditioning, a private ensuite bathroom and plenty of room to relax including an outdoor deck with seating. Located in the heart of the Red Centre, Kings Canyon Resort is a one-hour plane charter from Uluru or a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Alice Springs.

Kafnu, Alexandria

Kafnu made its Australian debut in Alexandria, New South Wales when opening in March 2019. The unique Kafnu proposition combines the best elements of a shared workspace, a boutique hotel and a social community, welcoming business travellers looking for a place to build and connect. Facilities include 16 luxurious guestrooms, fully equipped coworking spaces, media production and podcast studios, a virtual fitness centre and a bespoke gin bar. Conveniently located next to the iconic Grounds of Alexandria café, Kafnu is just 20 minutes from Sydney Airport and the CBD.

Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, Cairns

With views of Cairns’ remarkable coastline, Riley, A Crystalbrook Collection Resort, is the epitome of seaside luxury. This five-star resort has everything you need to have an indulgent holiday in Tropical North Queensland, from the Luxury Eléme Day Spa to the expansive swimming lagoon. The resort has 311 rooms and suites, each fit with contemporary design and amenities. Treat your tastebuds at Paper Crane, a modern Asian fusion restaurant, or head up to Rocco, a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop bar set 12 floors above sea level. Guests even have access to a manmade beach and secluded cabanas. The hotel opened in late 2018.

Related reading:

Crystalbrook Collection’s Riley in Cairns showcases Queensland design talent

Kings Canyon Resort Reveals New Glamping Tents in the Red Centre

$15m Sequoia development at Mount Lofty House to open in December