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These Are Australia’s Best Hotels, Pools, Spas and More in 2025

AUSTRALIA MAINTAINS a stratospheric bar for luxury travel in 2025. This year’s awards have seen character-filled new players enter the chat, alongside a reshuffling of stalwarts across every category. While international brands feature prominently, the popularity of independents and boutiques can’t be denied—especially along the country’s vast coastlines and across its formidable outback destinations. Whether beach resort, heritage building, or converted sheep station, this year’s hotel winners all represent the best in warm and unfussy Australian hospitality.
BEST BEACH + ISLAND HOTELS
1. JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Queensland
This 28-story glam bolthole may look like it belongs in the city, but its beachside locale in the heart of the Gold Coast’s Surfers Paradise is very much giving “tropical resort.” Its private saltwater lagoon is a key attraction for families, complete with sandy beaches and an artificial reef that’s home to more than 300 tropical fish, including clownfish, silver bream and moon wrasse. Teppanyaki restaurant Misono ramps up the dining fun, while the guestrooms’ private balconies offer views of the Pacific Ocean or tranquil Gold Coast hinterland, with the beach just five minutes away on foot. Guests rave about the superb buffet breakfast, friendly staff and excellent swimming facilities.
2. The Langham, Gold Coast, Queensland
3. Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas, Queensland
4. Bedarra Island Resort, Queensland
5. Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, New South Wales
6. InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, Queensland
7. Southern Ocean Lodge, South Australia
8. Qualia, Hamilton Island, Queensland
9. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Safari Camp, Western Australia
10. Orpheus Island Lodge, Queensland
BEST CITY HOTELS
Behold: the new grande dame of Sydney. Occupying two century-old heritage buildings within walking distance of icons such as the Opera House and Royal Botanical Gardens, this regal hotel has upped the luxury factor in Sydney’s heart, adorning its historic architecture with exquisite art, including a wondrous floral art installation hanging in the skylit internal courtyard. The moon-themed Auriga Spa features an indoor pool (also skylit) and eucalyptus-scented steam room and infrared sauna. Unique perks of staying here include the in-room Pilates equipment and on-demand workouts in collab with Sydney studio Fluidform, and access to drinks, bites and cultural historians in the Living Room.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne
4. The Tasman Hobart, Tasmania
5. Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
6. W Melbourne
9. COMO The Treasury, Perth
10. W Brisbane
BEST COUNTRY HOTELS + LODGES
1. El Questro Homestead, Western Australia
A recently refurbed adults-only retreat nestled among 700,000 acres of ancient Western Australian landscape, this all-inclusive 10-suite hideaway in the Kimberley is the ultimate launchpad to some of the most spectacular Australian outback. Overlooking the Chamberlain River in a setting of green lawns, burnt-orange cliffs and frangipanis, the stay comes with unmissable bucket-list experiences, including gorge cruises, bush and wildlife tours, guided walks, private dining locations and complimentary use of nearby Zebedee Thermal Springs. Wake up to fiery sunrises and birdsong and finish the day with a gourmet meals featuring produce from the plentiful Ord River Valley.
2. Cradle Mountain Lodge, Tasmania
3. Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania
4. Bullo River Station, Northern Territory
5. InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Queensland
6. Bamurru Plains, Northern Territory
7. InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
8. Jackalope Hotel, Victoria
9. Silky Oaks Lodge, Queensland
10. The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa, Byron Bay
BEST HOTEL SPAS
1. Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Sydney
The bespoke care and attention to detail can be felt from the moment you step into this intimate six-suite spa. Modalities draw from ancient healing therapies and wellness philosophies from across Asia, using Australian-owned Sodashi oils and natural Aussie ingredients like wattle seed and pink clay.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne
3. COMO Shambala Urban Escape at COMO The Treasury Perth
4. Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania
6. Cradle Mountain Lodge, Tasmania
8. Elements of Byron Resort & Spa
9. The Day Spa by Chuan at The Langham, Sydney
10. Qualia, Hamilton Island
BEST HOTEL POOLS
1. Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle, Western Australia
Against the rugged backdrop of the East Kimberley region sits a sapphire among the mountains. The 35-meter infinity pool at Discovery Resorts is the only one to overlook freshwater Lake Argyle and boasts the type of views that stay with you long after you’ve left.
2. JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Queensland
4. Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas, Queensland
5. W Brisbane
6. InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, Queensland
7. InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Queensland
8. Elements of Byron Resort & Spa
9. The Day Spa by Chuan at The Langham, Sydney
10. Qualia, Hamilton Island, Queensland
BEST GENERAL MANAGERS
1. Ravinder Dhesi, JW Marriott Gold Coast
Ravinder Dhesi is a stalwart of the industry, having been with Marriott for more than 25 years, launching his career at the ITT Sheraton Resort Denarau Fiji, and working in Marriott properties across Fiji and Queensland ever since.
2. Rob Weeden, Shangri-La Sydney
3. Rachel Harman, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne
4. Steve Molnar, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
5. Marc von Arnim, Capella Sydney
You’ll find great diversity in these lists of our readers’ picks of the best hotels and hotel features across Australia for 2025. And for all of this year’s Luxury Awards Asia-Pacific winners, click here.
Lede and hero image by Western Australia Tourism.
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Brand Stories
How Olive Group of Hotels Is Redefining Wellness Travel in India—And Why the World Is Watching
Olive Group of Hotels is setting new standards in wellness travel across India, gaining worldwide recognition for their innovative and holistic guest experiences.

Wellness travel is transforming from a luxury niche into a global necessity. Across continents, today’s travelers—especially health-conscious millennials and Gen Z—are redefining what it means to stay well on the road. At the forefront of this movement stands the Olive Group of Hotels, an India-based hospitality leader blending modern living with a deep commitment to holistic wellness.
A Wellness Wave, Not a Fad
Global wellness tourism is now an $800 billion industry, propelled by growing awareness around mental health, burnout, and the need for balance in daily life. Post-pandemic, travelers seek more than just comfort; they want experiences that enhance well-being and foster personal growth. Olive Group’s strategy directly responds to this demand, offering an ecosystem where physical, mental, and emotional health are prioritized.
The Olive Model: Where Hospitality Meets Well-Being
Unlike traditional hotels that treat wellness as an add-on, Olive integrates it into every aspect of the guest journey. Extended-stay suites come equipped with kitchenettes, enabling guests to maintain healthy eating habits. Rooms are designed with natural light, air purification, and ergonomic workspaces—elements proven to reduce fatigue and boost focus.
Guests enjoy access to in-room fitness kits, meditation corners, and digital wellness tools, making self-care part of the daily routine. Olive’s F&B menus highlight nutritious, locally sourced ingredients, with options for plant-based, gluten-free, and detox-focused diets. This seamless integration ensures that wellness isn’t a feature—it’s the foundation.
Personalization Through Technology and Human Touch
What truly sets Olive apart is its embrace of deep personalization. Guests can tailor their stays with app-based wellness programs, book virtual consultations with nutritionists or yoga instructors, and even set custom lighting or sleep settings from their smartphones. The combination of tech-driven convenience and authentic human care creates a guest experience that feels intuitive and empowering.
Urban Oases and Spiritual Gateways
Olive Group’s presence across India’s urban hubs and spiritual destinations amplifies its impact. In cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, Olive appeals to business travelers and digital nomads seeking respite from the city’s pace. Meanwhile, in places like Haridwar and Rishikesh, properties are designed to facilitate transformative journeys—connecting guests to yoga, meditation, and local wellness traditions.
Lessons for the Global Hospitality Industry
Olive Group’s evolution signals a new era for hotels worldwide. The future belongs to brands that view wellness not as a spa package, but as a core operating principle. By designing spaces and services around holistic well-being—supported by smart technology and sustainable practices—hotels can build lasting loyalty and set new standards for guest satisfaction.
“Olive’s strategy offers a blueprint for the next generation of hospitality—where wellness is woven into every guest experience, and personalization is powered by both innovation and empathy.” — Industry Analyst, Hospitality Expert
As travelers demand more meaningful, health-focused journeys, the Olive Group of Hotels demonstrates that true hospitality is about helping guests thrive—mind, body, and spirit. In doing so, Olive is not just responding to a trend; it is defining what the future of travel can be.
Disclosure: The author has no direct affiliation with Bloom Hotels, nor does this article include any sponsored content or promotional material. The opinions expressed in this article are based on publicly available information and are intended to provide an objective overview of Bloom Hotels and its services.
Brand Stories
Bloom Hotels: A Modern Vision of Hospitality Redefining Travel
Bloom Hotels represents a modern vision of hospitality, redefining travel for a new generation with innovative design, smart comfort, and memorable stays.

In a rapidly evolving hospitality landscape, Bloom Hotels stands as a testament to the changing preferences of today’s travelers. As modern tourism leans toward personalized, sustainable, and experience-driven stays, Bloom Hotels has successfully navigated the intersection of comfort, innovation and local connection, creating an environment that feels both familiar and forward-thinking.
For those seeking not just a place to stay but an experience that resonates beyond the conventional, Bloom Hotels offers a distinctive solution. Here’s why Bloom Hotels has become a top choice for travelers who value simplicity, sustainability and seamless integration of technology.
A Fresh Take on Modern Hospitality
Bloom Hotels embodies a refreshingly modern approach to hospitality, breaking away from the trappings of traditional luxury without compromising on quality or comfort. Its minimalistic yet functional design speaks to the evolving tastes of today’s traveler, who values efficiency and thoughtful aesthetics. Each location, while adhering to the Bloom Hotels brand’s consistent ethos, integrates elements that reflect its environment, creating spaces that feel grounded yet innovative.
Rooms are designed to provide both functionality and relaxation offering features like ergonomic beds, ample workspace and high-speed internet connectivity. Guests are greeted with a streamlined experience that prioritizes ease and accessibility, from swift check-ins to intuitive in-room technology. It’s not about excess, but about providing what’s necessary for a comfortable, efficient stay.
The Power of Personalization
Millennials and Gen Z have rewritten the rules of modern travel, prioritizing personal growth and experience over traditional luxury. Bloom Hotels has recognized this shift and catered to these evolving demands by offering highly personalized experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Guests can curate their own experiences, from choosing the type of room that best suits their needs to customizing in-house services. Whether it’s a wellness-focused retreat or a city break with a local cultural immersion, Bloom Hotels provides a range of options that reflect the diverse needs of today’s travelers.
For business travelers, the hotel’s seamless integration of technology allows for swift, efficient stays, with features like digital check-ins, 24/7 support, and flexible workspace arrangements. Leisure guests, on the other hand, can explore local recommendations curated by the hotel’s expert staff, enhancing the connection to the destination.
Sustainable and Thoughtful Operations
In a time when sustainability is no longer a luxury but a necessity, Bloom Hotels has committed to reducing its environmental footprint. The brand’s approach to sustainability is both practical and impactful. From energy-efficient lighting and water conservation measures to the use of locally sourced materials and eco-friendly cleaning products, every aspect of Bloom Hotels’ operations reflects its dedication to minimizing environmental impact.
Bloom Hotels also places a significant focus on the local community, integrating regional elements into the guest experience and ensuring that tourism benefits the areas it serves. By partnering with local artisans, sourcing produce from nearby markets, and supporting regional causes, Bloom Hotels creates a sustainable ecosystem that supports both travelers and the local community.
Technology That Enhances, Not Distracts
The modern traveler demands convenience and personalization, and Bloom Hotels meets these expectations with cutting-edge technology. Yet, unlike many hotel chains that overcomplicate guest services with excessive tech, Bloom Hotels takes a measured approach, using technology to enhance the guest experience without overwhelming it.
The hotel’s mobile app allows for easy booking, check-in, and room customization, while in-room technology provides guests with control over lighting, temperature, and entertainment options. By integrating technology in a way that is intuitive and user-friendly, Bloom Hotels enables guests to focus on what truly matters whether that’s work, relaxation or exploration.
Local Connection with a Global Reach
Bloom Hotels thrives on its ability to offer guests a local experience without sacrificing international standards. Whether you’re in the heart of a bustling city or a more tranquil setting, Bloom Hotels ensures that each location captures the essence of its surroundings.
By offering curated local experiences, from guided tours to culinary experiences, Bloom Hotels gives travelers an authentic connection to the region while maintaining the high standards of service they expect. It’s this blend of global consistency and local flavor that sets Bloom Hotels apart in a crowded hospitality market.
The Future of Hospitality
As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, the expectations of the modern traveler continue to evolve. Bloom Hotels is well-positioned to meet these demands, offering a seamless blend of comfort, innovation and sustainability. For travelers who value simplicity, authenticity, and thoughtful design, Bloom Hotels represents a new standard in the hospitality industry a hotel experience that is both grounded and forward-thinking.
In an era where travelers are seeking not just luxury but authenticity and deeper connections, Bloom Hotels offers a compelling model for how hospitality can evolve to meet the changing needs of a new generation of global citizens.
Disclosure: The author has no direct affiliation with Bloom Hotels, nor does this article include any sponsored content or promotional material. The opinions expressed in this article are based on publicly available information and are intended to provide an objective overview of Bloom Hotels and its services.
AI in Travel
AI Travel Revolution: Must-Have Guide to the Best Experience
Experience the AI travel revolution firsthand as smart technology transforms trip planning into a personalized, effortless adventure. Discover how cutting-edge tools like cheQin.ai are reshaping the way we explore the world with tailored itineraries and real-time travel insights.

How AI is Changing the Way We Travel: The Next Frontier
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming nearly every facet of our lives, and travel is no exception. The integration of AI into travel technology is revolutionizing how we plan, book, and experience trips, offering smarter, more personalized, and efficient solutions. From virtual concierges to smart travel planning tools and cutting-edge innovations like cheQin.ai, AI is heralding a new era in the travel industry. This article dives deep into how AI is reshaping our journeys, what new tools are emerging, and what future trends travelers and businesses alike should watch.
A Look at New AI Tools Revolutionizing Travel
The travel landscape was once dominated by traditional agencies and manual planning, often resulting in generic recommendations and cumbersome booking processes. Today, AI tools are changing that narrative dramatically.
Innovative platforms like cheQin.ai exemplify these advances by leveraging machine learning algorithms and data analytics to provide highly personalized travel ideas. This technology can analyze user preferences, past travel history, and real-time factors like weather or local events to craft tailored itineraries. Such tools are not only improving convenience but elevating the quality of travel experiences by ensuring travelers make the most of their time and budget.
Beyond itinerary generation, AI-driven platforms are optimizing booking systems. By integrating natural language processing (NLP), many apps allow users to engage in human-like conversations, ask questions, and receive instant responses. This shifts travel planning from a tedious task into an interactive, enjoyable activity. Additionally, AI-powered price prediction models help users find the best deals by analyzing historical flight and hotel pricing trends, minimizing the guesswork and stress associated with last-minute bookings.
Virtual Concierges: The Rise of AI-Powered Travel Assistants
One of the most fascinating applications of AI in travel is the emergence of virtual concierges. These are AI bots or digital assistants embedded in travel apps and hotel websites, designed to offer personalized, real-time assistance.
Virtual concierges are capable of handling a variety of traveler needs: from restaurant recommendations and local attraction guides to booking transportation and answering common questions about travel policies. They provide 24/7 support without the wait times associated with human agents, making assistance accessible at any point during a trip.
For instance, AI virtual concierges can analyze a traveler’s preferences and dining history to suggest meal spots that fit dietary needs or highlight hidden local gems, enhancing authenticity in travel experiences. Hotels also deploy these assistants to streamline check-in/check-out procedures, provide room service requests, and offer customized wellness or entertainment options, thereby elevating guest satisfaction while reducing operational costs.
Smart Travel Planning: How AI Tailors Every Step of Your Journey
Smart travel planning powered by AI goes beyond mere itinerary building—it embraces a holistic approach to travel management. AI systems integrate multiple data points, including traveler behavior, transportation modes, accommodation availability, real-time traffic, and even social sentiment from travel communities.
By synthesizing this information, AI-driven smart travel planning can optimize routes for efficiency, suggest activities suited to the time of day or weather conditions, and create flexible plans that adapt if disruptions like flight delays occur.
Tools powered by cheQin.ai and similar platforms are advancing in predictive capabilities. For example, they can forecast tourist traffic, enabling travelers to avoid overcrowded sites or find alternative experiences. This adaptability ensures a stress-free and immersive travel experience tailored to an individual’s style—be it adventure, relaxation, cultural exploration, or culinary tourism.
Additionally, smart travel planning enables corporate travel managers to reduce costs and streamline logistics by automating expense tracking, itinerary synchronization, and compliance monitoring. This makes business trips more productive and less taxing on travelers.
Future Trends: What’s Next in the AI-Driven Travel Revolution?
As AI technology matures, the travel industry is poised to witness several exciting trends that will further redefine experiences:
Hyper-Personalization: Advanced AI will combine biometric data, social media activity, and environmental sensors to tailor every aspect of travel—from security screening to in-flight entertainment—creating seamless, unique journeys.
Augmented Reality (AR) and AI Integration: Travelers will enjoy AI-powered AR guides overlaying historical facts, navigation pointers, or immersive language translations onto real-world environments through smartphones or smart glasses.
Sustainability Focus: AI will help travelers make eco-conscious choices by recommending green accommodations, optimal travel routes to reduce carbon footprints, and real-time environmental impact tracking.
Voice-Activated Travel Planning: Building on virtual concierge systems, voice-activated AI assistants will become more conversational and context-aware, enabling effortless multi-step travel arrangements through speech.
Autonomous Transport: AI-driven autonomous vehicles and drones may become common for short-distance travel and parcel delivery, changing how tourists navigate destinations.
Blockchain and AI Synergy: To enhance security and transparency, AI integrated with blockchain technology could streamline identity verification and fraud prevention in travel transactions.
Why cheQin.ai is Leading the Charge in AI Travel Innovation
Among these emerging tools, cheQin.ai stands out for its cutting-edge application of AI to travel planning challenges. With a user-centric interface, it simplifies complex decision-making by curating personalized suggestions based on robust data inputs, continuously learning from user feedback to refine its recommendations.
Its ability to integrate data from diverse sources—including transportation databases, social reviews, local event schedules, and even weather forecasts—makes cheQin.ai a comprehensive travel planner capable of adapting to dynamic travel conditions.
Moreover, cheQin.ai emphasizes ethical AI use, focusing on transparent algorithms and data privacy, a vital consideration as travelers become more aware of how their personal information is handled.
Embracing the AI-Powered Travel Future
Artificial intelligence is unlocking unprecedented possibilities for travelers and the travel industry alike. By embracing new AI tools like cheQin.ai, virtual concierges, and sophisticated smart travel planning systems, we are moving toward journeys that are smarter, personalized, and more accessible. As these innovations continue to evolve, they promise to make travel not only easier but richer and more meaningful.
For travelers willing to explore this AI-driven frontier, the future holds more than just destinations—it offers intelligent experiences tailored uniquely to them, redefining what it means to explore the world.
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