Words: Tanya Joslin
Overview:
Experience the best of Brisbane with a romantic getaway at The Westin Brisbane, a luxury hotel in the heart of the city. Ideal for couples looking to relax, reconnect, and indulge, this urban sanctuary captures the laid-back sophistication of the Queensland capital. Standout amenities include Settimo restaurant by Guy Grossi, Heavenly® Spa by Westin, the exclusive Westin Club Lounge, and Brisbane’s first swim-up pool bar. With a range of elegant rooms and suites, this five-star Brisbane hotel provides a tranquil base and easy access to shopping and attractions, whether your stay is for a special occasion or ‘just because’.
The Location:
Located in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, The Westin Brisbane offers easy access to the Queen Street Mall, Eagle Street Pier, and the serene City Botanic Gardens — our pick for a romantic stroll. Nearby, Howard Smith Wharves beckons with its picturesque riverside walk and buzzy bars and restaurants. Cross the river and you’ll find the city’s cultural heartland, home to QAGOMA (Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art), the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, and the South Bank precinct.
With Central train station within reach, exploring further afield is effortless too. Although, with so many attractions within walking distance, you’ll have plenty to see and do on your doorstep. That’s if you can tear yourselves away from the hotel! Brisbane’s near-endless summers offer the perfect backdrop to immerse in The Westin’s resort-style Nautilus pool and swim-up bar. Soaring high above the streetscape, it’s a top spot to indulge in a tropical cocktail while soaking in mesmerising views of the city skyline.
Spa + Wellness:
Heavenly® Spa is Westin’s exclusive brand, and Brisbane proudly hosts the only one in Australia. This haven of indulgence features five spa treatment rooms, including two specifically designed for couples, and a separate steam room. We stayed for my husband’s birthday weekend so a couple’s massage was a must — it was exceptional!
The spa offers a harmonious blend of restorative rituals and wellness treatments, allowing you to unwind from head to toe. Your senses will be indulged with skincare formulations from renowned brands including BABOR®, DMK, and INIKIA® for that radiant, holiday glow.
And, if you want to maintain your exercise routine beyond the Riverwalk, WestinWORKOUT™ offers state-of-the-art equipment with a view of the pool deck. There are Life Fitness machines, a Pilates reformer machine, the only Evolt360 in any hotel gym, and sublime outdoor spaces for yoga practice. Ask the charming guest services team about booking a private yoga or fitness trainer during your stay.
Food & Drink:
Exploring Brisbane will work up an appetite, and while there’s much to sample around the city, don’t miss The Westin Brisbane’s own gourmet offerings. You can grab cocktails at the Nautilus Pool & Bar or The Charles: a jazz bar/café that also offers casual bites. But, when it comes to dining, Settimo steals the show! Led by celebrated Italian restauranteur Guy Grossi, this award-winning restaurant serves up an unforgettable experience. Book a table for two and prepare to be whisked away on a culinary adventure, savouring authentic flavours and the warm hospitality of the Amalfi Coast.
Grossi has enjoyed an exemplary career as a star chef, restaurateur, and author. In 1996, the Italian president awarded him the L’insegna Del Ristorante Italiano for authentically presenting Italian cuisine and lifestyle. You may have one of his four cookbooks tucked in your kitchen cupboards, but here’s a chance to taste his creations without having to don an apron.
Settimo only opened in February 2023 but has already earned a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Brisbane. The dishes are coastally inspired and served in an immersive setting tailor-made for a romantic dinner. Italian and Australian food culture is expressed in every dish, with local produce and artfully crafted international ingredients. Every morsel was divine, though the tiramisu was worth travelling to Brisbane for all on its own. Make sure you save room to enjoy this exquisite treat!
Best Room for Two:
While The Westin Brisbane offers 298 beautifully appointed rooms, couples seeking a romantic escape will adore a spacious Renewal Suite, which is what we booked for our romantic weekend away. Flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, they offer skyline views from a private balcony, a separate lounge and luxury bathroom, and a renowned Westin Heavenly® king bed to ensure a restorative slumber. There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep to inspire your next urban adventure!
To further enhance your stay, the hotel’s suites and club rooms include access to the Westin Club Lounge — our favourite haunt for its daily perks of a hot buffet breakfast, evening drinks and canapés, all-day tea and coffee, and more. Throughout the hotel, you’ll also enjoy the signature Westin scent: the elegant White Tea Collection. This makes a great take-home gift, with bath amenities, candles, and diffusers to infuse your home with a distinctively luxurious scent.
Couples Will Love:
The convenience of exploring the city from this prime location means you’ll be able to tick off all your wish-list Brisbane adventures. Then, retreat to your luxurious room and enjoy the hotel’s indulgent facilities. The balance of sophisticated amenities, top-notch dining options, and heavenly comfort makes The Westin Brisbane one of the best hotels for a romantic escape in Brisbane.
Discover more about The Westin Brisbane and book your own romantic getaway.
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