If you’re anything like me, your holiday break likely involved soaking up the sun on a beach towel or, in my case, sipping spritzes at Icebergs while daydreaming about the next getaway. Meanwhile, like most Sydneysiders this time of year, I’m busy plotting my next big adventure. Europe is always on my radar, along with Japan this year for the first time — but as a recent conversation with a girlfriend reminded me, maybe it’s time to consider something closer to home. Skipping the annual European escape could mean saving a little extra cash, while still indulging in the luxury and adventure I crave.

Sure, the pull of Europe’s charm is hard to resist (I’ve been there every year since I was 23), but what if this is the year I trade cobblestone streets for pristine coastlines and vibrant cities right here in Australia? After all, our backyard is brimming with world-class destinations — and some seriously stunning hotels opening in 2025. From coastal retreats to urban escapes, here’s my round-up of the new Australian stays worth bookmarking for your next getaway.

The Eve Hotel
Opening its doors in February 2025, The Eve Hotel is the kind of place where you’ll want to spend the afternoon lounging by the palm-lined pool, cocktail in hand, before heading to Bar Julius for a meal that feels like it belongs in your main-character moment. Designed with organic curves, natural stone, and lush greenery, The Eve has that effortless charm that makes it feel like both a retreat and a reason to never leave the city.

Grand National Hotel
The Grand National Hotel in Paddington is finally here, and it’s every bit as chic as you’d expect from Josh and Julie Niland. With just 14 bespoke rooms, it’s got that perfect blend of heritage charm and understated luxury. Breakfasts come courtesy of the Saint Peter team, so you can start your day with something like a spanner crab omelette—because why not? Add in the complimentary minibar, and it’s the kind of place where every detail feels like a little indulgence.

1 Hotel Melbourne
Opening in May 2025, 1 Hotel Melbourne is set to bring a fresh mix of luxury and sustainability to the Yarra River. With interiors made from reclaimed materials and over 2,000 plants scattered throughout, it is set to feel more like a lush escape than your typical city stay. Think farm-to-table dining, nature-inspired spa treatments, and a riverside park just steps away. It’s shaping up to be the perfect mix of indulgence and eco-friendly living, right in the heart of Melbourne