A run down of the Hilton Hotels, Australia

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Everything you need to know about the Hilton in Australia, from the staff at Australian Traveller Magazine.

There are 7 Hilton hotels located in Australia. There is a Hilton in most major capital cities, and Hiltons in Cairns and Surfers Paradise. Cairns and Surfers Paradise are leisure destinations, so these Hiltons have more of a resort feel than the other CBD Hiltons.

 

When booking accommodation in Sydney, you may notice that Hilton hotels are not star rated. In 2006 Hilton Australia and AAA Tourism (The owners of the star rating system)  had a dispute. The dispute was never resolved and Hilton withdrew from the star rating system in Australia. Rest assured, Hiltons are great properties, and you can expect at least the equivalent if a 4.5* experience at any of their hotels.

Hilton Sydney:

Sydney's Hilton-hotel-based Marble Bar, built in 1893, is seeking bands that reflect its musical heritage for its 120th birthday festivities.
Sydney’s Hilton-hotel-based Marble Bar, built in 1893, is seeking bands that reflect its musical heritage for its 120th birthday festivities.

Hilton Sydney was completely refurbished in 2007 (It was a drab 1970’s style building in the centre of the Sydney CBD), and now houses some of Sydney’s more popular bars; Zeta Bar and the stunning, iconic Marble Bar, as well as one of Sydney’s latest, and most fashionable restaurants (Glass Brasserie, By Luke Mangan).

 

The building sits right on George Street, the interior is well done, and the location is fantastic as it’s centred in the shopping precinct of the Sydney CBD.

Hilton Surfers Paradise:

Hilton Surfers Paradise

The Hilton Surfers Paradise  is a mixed use development with both residential and hotel accommodation spread across two towers on the beach at the Surfers Paradise. The hotel proper has not opened yet, but we will be sure to check it out once it’s opened and give you a report.

Hilton Adelaide:

Hilton, Adelaide.

Though it could be said the Hilton Adelaide could do with a refurbishment, it’s a comfortable place to stay with a stunning outdoor deck where guests can have a coffee or a cocktail. This is situated right next to the beautiful pool, so you can’t miss it.

Hilton Brisbane:

Hilton Brisbane is arguably one of the best 5 star properties in Brisbane. The beautiful interior and atrium you instantly know you are staying somewhere luxe. It is a must stay when having a girls shopping weekend in Brisvegas as it has instant access to Queen St mall. Currently under refurbishment scheduled to finish at the end of Oct 2011. Proving that the cool kid on the block wants to stay your number one place to stay when visiting.

Hilton Cairns:

The Hilton Hotel, Cairns

Fortunately for the Great Barrier Reef port there are many hotels and resorts for all comforts and style. Hilton Cairns should be one of those you consider when booking your trip. If you like a great location, that is!

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An insider’s guide to Noosa’s best-kept winter secrets

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach
Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter
Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa
Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter
Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter
Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.