10 of Australia’s most decadent (and expensive) hotel suites

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Want the ultimate accommodation splash-outs in some of the best-positioned hotels in Australia? Check out these ultra-luxe suites, although you might want to check your bank balance first…

With breathtaking vistas, incredible amenities and unbeatable service, Australia’s most exclusive hotel suites unsurprisingly come with a substantial price tag. But that doesn’t mean you can’t dream!

From a suite nestled on a private island to an outback oasis with spectacular views of Uluṟu, these are the accommodations to book if you’re planning on going all out.

1. Sydney Suite, Park Hyatt Sydney, NSW

If you’re a VIP (with $26,000 per night – minimum stay of two nights – to spend) who appreciates front-row Opera House views, it’s hard to beat the Sydney Suite at the Park Hyatt Sydney.

Park Hyatt Sydney
Park Hyatt Sydney offers an exquisite setting with top-tier amenities.

This two-bedroom masterpiece comes with the ‘usual’ add-ons such as a 24-hour butler and a $9000 toilet. To get the most out of the view, there is also a wrap-around private terrace with sun lounges and al fresco dining for six.

You can reserve the entire fourth floor of the hotel for $74,000 per night (minimum stay of two nights) – for your entourage, of course.

Park Hyatt Sydney
Admire the Sydney Opera House from the comfort of your suite.

Price: From $16,000 per night.

Address: 7 Hickson Rd, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW

2. The Ritz-Carlton Suite, Perth, WA

As you’d expect from one of the most revered luxury hotel chains, The Ritz-Carlton’s Perth outpost’s  most desirable suite does not disappoint. From the dining room to the bedroom, each sleek space is clad in an elegant medley of polished local timbers, leather and marble. 

Ritz-Carlton Suite in Perth
The Ritz-Carlton Suite offers offers elegant amenities.

Expansive windows frame outlooks of Elizabeth Quay and the Swan River or relax on the large terrace for the prime viewing spot. The piece de résistance? The huge purple marble-clad bathroom with a freestanding tub.

The Ritz-Carlton Suite Perth
The bathroom is swathed in luxurious marble.

Price: From $8,888 per night.

Address: 1 Barrack St, Perth, WA

3. The Baillie Pavilion at Southern Ocean Lodge, SA

Southern Ocean Lodge is an exclusive clifftop residence on Kangaroo Island commanding arresting views of the Great Southern Ocean. And you’re spoilt for choice as to where to admire these panoramic views from in The Baillie Pavilion.

Southern Ocean Lodge The Baillie Pavilion
The sunken entertainer’s lounge features a suspended fireplace.

At an impressive 625 square metres, the suite boasts two infinity pools, two outdoor terraces and an entertainers’ lounge with floor-to-ceiling glass for taking in the scenery. Each of the four bedrooms has a walk-in robe and ensuite bathroom, offering privacy and convenience for all.

Southern Ocean Lodge The Baillie Pavilion
Relax in the freestanding bath and take in the peaceful scenes.

Price: From $16,200 per night.

Address: Hanson Bay Road, Karatta, SA

4. Presidential Opera Suite, InterContinental Sydney, NSW

Sitting pretty on level 29, the elevated Presidential Opera Suite at the InterContinental Sydney offers vistas over all of the city’s icons. At a roomy 245 square metres, you’ll find a separate lounge room, a 14-person dining room, a butler’s pantry, a workspace and a grand piano.

InterContinental Sydney
The sophisticated interiors echo the colours of the harbour.

It also claims the best bathtub view in Australia which overlooks the Eastern Harbour and Sydney Royal Botanic Garden.

InterContinental Sydney
Entertain your favourite people in style.

Price: From $9000 per night. 

Address: 117 Macquarie St, Sydney, NSW

5. The Chamberlain Suite, El Questro Homestead, WA

Dramatically suspended over the Chamberlain Gorge in Western Australia’s Kimberley region, The Chamberlain Suite at El Questro Homestead is the ultimate outback oasis.

El Questro Homestead
Few accommodation locations are as spectacular as this.

The suite has been decorated with elevated rustic Australian furnishings and features floor-to-ceiling windows, a wraparound veranda and an indoor/outdoor double deluxe bath that offers breathtaking views over one of Australia’s most eye wateringly beautiful regions. 

El Questro Homestead
Relax and connect with nature from the freestanding bath.

Price: From $4400 per night. 

Address: 1 Gibb River-Wyndham Road, Durack, WA

6. Lidgbird Pavilion, Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, NSW

The World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island is home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the spectacular Capella Lodge. The resort’s Lidgbird Pavilion is a contemporary split-level suite that affords guests multiple chic spots to relax and while away the days.

Capella Lodge
Relax in the heated plunge pool.

Outside, you’ll be treated to wrap-around verandahs and an expansive deck with a heated plunge pool that overlooks the island’s natural beauty from the mountains to the beach.

Inside the raw-teak and linen-dressed suite is a spacious lounge area with a fireplace on the first floor, and a lofty bedroom with an ensuite on the second floor.

Capella Lodge
The pavilion deck features an outdoor bath and shower.

Price: From $3900 per night.

Address: Lagoon Rd, Lord Howe Island, NSW

7. Dune Pavilion, Longitude 131°, NT

One of Australia’s most coveted accommodations, the Dune Pavilion at Longitude 131° showcases the very best of indoor/outdoor living. This four-guest property was architecturally designed as a modern interpretation of the Australian homestead and celebrates the unique Red Centre landscape.

Longitutde 131
The colour palette of the suite is designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape.

The highlight is undoubtedly the uninterrupted outlooks of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa which can be enjoyed from the comfort of your plush bed, the private plunge pool or the outdoor deck.

longitude 131
The tented pavilion offers the ultimate in outback glamour.

Price: From $7560 per night.

Address: Yulara Drive, Yulara, NT

8. Private Pavilion, Saffire Freycinet, Tas

Two hours from Hobart on Tasmania’s stunning east coast is the sublime Freycinet National Park. And Saffire Freycinet is the ultimate place to stay with not many reviewers being able to fault the Private Pavilion. The ultra-modern suite features a separate bedroom and dining area and a private courtyard with a plunge pool, all of which overlooks the wild beauty of Freycinet Peninsula. 

Saffire Freycinet
Saffire Freycinet sits along Tasmania’s picturesque East Coast.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the onsite restaurant are all included in your booking, but if you want to top the experience and make the most of your suite, in-room dining with your own personal chef is also available for an added fee.

Saffire Freycinet
The suite is elevated with Tasmanian timbers and Australian designer touches.

Price: From $3500 per night. 

Address: 2352 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay, Tas

9. Presidential Villa, Crown Towers Sydney, NSW

Australia’s most expensive penthouse suite sits proudly on the 88th floor of the Crown Towers Sydney and is a favourite amongst celebrities – hello Taylor Swift.

Crown Towers Sydney
The suite is swathed in sleek chrome.

Spread across 800 square metres and two levels, the amenities here are unbeatable with a kitchen and marble-top bar, a 10-person dining area, an infinity pool, a sundeck, a pool table area, a media room and a fitness room. We could go on…

Crown Towers Sydney Presidential Suite
The second floor’s master bathroom comes with a spa bath.

Price: Price on enquiry only.

Address: 1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, NSW

10. Residence, Pelorus Private Island, Qld

As the name suggests, this newly opened accommodation is on its own private island in Tropical North Queensland on the Great Barrier Reef. The island has 400 hectares of pristine wilderness to explore and magnificent fringing reefs. 

Pelorus Island Suite
This secluded stay is the ultimate relaxation spot.

There are only five intimate suites at the waterfront property each of which epitomises contemporary island luxury and is decorated with hand-made designer furniture and textiles. Guests also have access to unlimited boat charters to surrounding islands.

Pelorus Private Island
The suite’s minimalist design encourages you to relax.

Price: $26,000 per night.

Address: Pelorus Private Island, Palm Island, Qld

Keen to check out more of Australia’s most expensive hotel rooms? Here are the hotel rooms in Melbourne that cost a pretty penny.
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Two immersive art experiences are coming to this Vic town in spring

In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Ballarat International Foto Biennale, events in Ballarat
Discover powerful stories through the lens at Ballarat International Foto Biennale. (Image: Astrid Mulder)

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

The colourful entrance to Sunnyside, one of the newest highlights of Events in Ballarat.
Explore 17 days of bold art at Sunnyside. (Image: Nice To Meet You Again, Morag Myerscough 2023. Photographer: Gareth Gardner)

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat.
Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat.
Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park.
Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort.
Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat
Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.