Story: Tanya Joslin
At a glance
Even one or two nights away can feel so much longer at five-star urban retreat, the Brisbane Marriott Hotel. The ideal escape for couples who want a riverside CBD location, the hotel offers a welcoming feel and all the little luxuries — from marble bathrooms and sophisticated furnishings to superb dining and a heated swimming pool — on site. We took advantage of their Retreat. Recharge. Refocus Package which offers a range of indulgent inclusions (more below) and enjoyed the perfect amount of romantic seclusion along with easy access to Brisbane’s best shopping, dining, and bar scene.
The location
Located riverside and soaring 28 storeys above the city’s heart, the Brisbane Marriott Hotel features 267 guest rooms and an exclusive Executive Lounge. Just a short walk away you can shop and dine to your heart’s content in and around the Queen Street Mall. Or just a few hundred metres beyond, catch an iconic Brisbane City Cat at Eagle Street Pier and see the city from the water.
Hop off at the lovely South Bank area for fantastic dining, bars, shopping, and even a manmade beach where you can revel in the sunshine and each other’s company. Art-lovers will want to linger longer here, with the Cultural Centre, GOMA and the Queensland Art Gallery awaiting your discovery. You’ll also have the popular Riverwalk and the vibrant Howard Smith Wharves dining precinct within easy reach.
Food & drink:
Within the hotel, Motion Dining serves contemporary Australian cuisine with hints of Asian flair. Sit close to the action at the Chef’s Grill table or soak up the Brisbane River views from the M Deck and enjoy an innovative menu focused on local seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood, tender steaks, and decadent desserts alongside a comprehensive wine list. With a phenomenal breakfast buffet and an excellent Seafood Dinner (check availability), it’s paradise for foodies.
You’ll find plenty of other dining options within walking distance of the hotel. And if you’re really into global flavours, jump on a City Cat and head over to Northshore’s Eat Street markets where they serve street food favourites from converted shipping containers in an historic wharf setting. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (4-10 pm).
Best room for two
With 267 recently refreshed, modern rooms to choose from, you’ll want to see if you can nab a cityscape or a view of the Brisbane River. Inside the rooms themselves, the little touches throughout add to the Brisbane Marriott’s magic. Luxurious king-size beds exude comfort while wall-mounted TVs invite you to cuddle up with a movie. The bathrooms are spacious, with separate showers and baths, complimentary toiletries, and an illuminated anti-fog mirror for flawless dinner date prep.
Executive Level rooms offer that something extra with exclusive access to the Executive Lounge on Level 26, evening canapés and drinks, and a daily buffet breakfast.
Couples will love
The Retreat. Recharge. Refocus Package is a beautiful way to reset together (if you’re reading this and the package is no longer available, be sure to reach out and check for any current offers). It includes a chef’s selection breakfast for two plus a $25 credit to use at Motion for one of your meals. You’ll also get a special takeaway refreshment hamper with a bottle of wine, perfect for taking up to your room or to bring to one of those gorgeous spots along the river.
And if all the sightseeing isn’t quite enough for you energetic lovers, there’s a heated pool for year-round swimming, whirlpool spa, saunas, and a fully equipped gym. The gym’s stellar view of the city beyond may just tempt you to head out and explore further.
The Brisbane Marriott Hotel is ideal for a city escape that lovers will never want to leave. Don’t be surprised if you find yourselves booking your next Brisbane short break for sooner rather than later.
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