In The City

Join us inside the most expensive and exclusive city hotels in the country – from the secret room in Melbourne you’re not supposed to know about, to sleeping under a bridge in Sydney the millionaires’ way.

It’s the stereotype of countless films. A massively opulent suite taking up the very top floor of a five star hotel. The kind of room occupied by James Bond types or evil tyrants looking to rule the world while stroking a white cat. The sort that require your own special lift pass. Or, in the best cases, your own special lift.

So, what’s life like when you push the last button on the elevator and get whisked up to the very best the hotel has to offer?

They were once called “penthouses" but now they go by different names. Sky Villa. Roof Pavilion. Whatever. We’re only interested in the most expensive room at the hotel. So what do you get for your money?

It’s the little things

The first thing is service. Regardless of the hotel, when you book the most expensive suite in the place you’re entering a different level of service. For starters you have a dedicated staff, generally a butler and at least a maid, whose job it is to go to extraordinary lengths to anticipate anything you might require.

The second important element involves the accoutrements to your stay. Hotels figure if you’re going to spend more than $20,000 on a room you can afford a bit more on some extras. Take Australia’s most expensive city hotel,Crown Towers in Melbourne. If you’re feeling like a bit of bubbly with your suite you can opt for a bottle of the Heidsieck & Co Monopole 1907 Gout Americain.

This apparently very good champagne was earmarked for the Russian military during WWI but was sunk by a German U-boat enroute toFinland. In 1997 salvage divers recovered the champagne to discover that, through a confluence of sturdy crate construction, constant temperature and uniform pressure, the bottles had been perfectly preserved. And you can order yourself a bottle for $13,200 if you wish.

If you’re the type who can afford $27,500 a night for the best room at Crown, you’re not about to blink at another $13k for a bottle of champagne.

Stay for the legroom

And then there’s the space. These hotel rooms are like nothing you’ve ever seen; they’re more like luxury apartments. It’s as though the actual hotel is just an enormous edifice hanging off the hotel room in order to feed it the service it requires.

They’ll all come with at least two bedrooms, a dining room and a vast lounge area at an absolute minimum. Interestingly, the Park Hyatt in Sydney has received council approval to add another suite onto their roof. Each room will have its own plunge pool. Given the hotels location and unbeatable view, these suites will come close to being the best (and most expensive)Australia has to offer.

Maybe it’s just the power these suites represent – the prestige of occupying the most expensive room in the building. Whatever the reason, we can understand why there will always be villains doing battle with James Bond types. They have a set of standards to which they’ve become accustomed and a lifestyle to defend.

Crown Towers, Melbourne

When it comes to the most expensive city hotel in Australia, this is it. We’ve been reliably informed that their über-suite will set you back some $27,500 per night. The best rooms at Crown are called Villas, of which there are 31, beginning at lofty level 30 of the hotel.

The very best Villas are Presidential Villas, the cream of which is room 3918, which will cost you that aforementioned $27,500 per night. Crown are very tight-lipped about this particular Villa. In fact, their public relations GM, Anne Peacock, refused to comment publicly on this particular room, citing the discretion and privacy of their extreme high rollers for the no-comment policy.

That said, we know that if you place $27,500 on the table and ask for the best room in the hotel, you should be given the keys to room 3918. Keep in mind that this isn’t just the most expensive hotel room in Australia; this is one of the most expensive in the world. By comparison, the priciest room in all of Sydney is a paltry $6950 a night.

Look at it this way: go out, come back to your room late and get a solid eight hours sleep. By the time you wake up for breakfast, you’ll have spent nearly $1 for every second you’ve been asleep. But, then again, if you can afford this suite you’re probably going to have some very cool dreams anyhow.

To get to your suite, you’ll take a lift to the Crystal Club on level 29, which is where you check in if you’re rich. No hanging around the foyer with the riff raff for you! The Crystal Club offers amazing views of Melbourne and is like having a very, very posh boutique hotel tucked inside a much larger one. The Crystal Club offers complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails and canapés. Most other hotels would configure level 29 as a sophisticated cocktail lounge.

Which, in part, this is. However, this is also the lobby within the hotel to access the best Crown Towers Suites. After swiping your diamond, ivory or obsidian Amex, your butler will take your bags to the 39th floor where room 3918 awaits. And what a room it is.

We can confirm that the three-bedroom suite takes up the entire floor. We’ve also been advised that it’s “around" 400m2 and has one of Melbourne’s best views. We just don’t have photos to share. Perhaps we have a reader out there who’s been lucky enough to stay in room 3918 that can send us some photos? We’d all be very keen to see them. Call (03) 9292 8888 or check out www.crowntowers.com.au for more.

Park Hyatt, Sydney

Sitting proudly beneath theHarbourBridgeand directly across from the Opera House, the Park Hyatt Sydney has probablySydney’s best views – and surprisingly is in a quiet part of The Rocks, with the hotel itself being relatively unimposing.

Where Melbourne’s Crown Towers stands tall, flashing neon and belching flames as a good casino should, the Park Hyatt is a touch more serene, subdued and understated.CrownTowersparties on. Park Hyatt considers. It’s also home toSydney’s most expensive hotel room.

This 185m2 suite costs around $6975 per night and has recently undergone a refurb. It has the most extraordinary views of the Opera House, the Bridge andSydneyHarbour, containing a dining table that seats 12. Extensive balconies (six in total) frame the unforgettable view.

Naturally the suite has a separate very large living room that’s equipped to be commensurate with the sort of entertaining that people spending $6000 a night require. The suites are stocked with all the latest technology and there’s nothing wanting. Forgot your camera? There’s one there to use. Need a meal? Get the chef to come cook one for you. It really is a relaxing way to unwind after a day of plotting world domination. Call (02) 9241 1234 or check out www.sydney.park.hyatt.com for more.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

Join us inside the most expensive and exclusive city hotels in the country – from the secret room in Melbourne you’re not supposed to know about, to sleeping under a bridge in Sydney the millionaires’ way.

It’s the little things

Stay for the legroom

Crown Towers, Melbourne

Park Hyatt, Sydney

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Central Queensland’s first five-star hotel is a coastal gateway

This off-grid Blue Mountains cabin was just crowned Airbnb’s best nature escape

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Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong