The Calile Hotel
Ever since its official opening in October 2018, I've wanted to stay at The Calile Hotel or urban resort, so it's been dubbed. Finally, I had the opportunity to do exactly that, after I was fortunate enough to win tickets to THE ICONIC Summer Show 19 Preview event, held on the property's rooftop, along with overnight accommodation.
Situated on James Street in Fortitude Valley, The Calile Hotel is unlike any other five-star hotel in the city. Feeling like an oasis of sorts, everywhere you look you'll find Insta-worthy elements - it truly is a hotel where even the most amateur photographer would struggle to find a bad composition.
For all the must-try foodie spots in Fortitude Valley view A Foodie’s Guide to Fortitude Valley
THE ROOM.
The resort comprises 164 rooms and 11 suites, offering guests a number of different options to choose from, the majority of which only vary according to the room's outlook, and whether the room possesses a balcony. During my brief time at the property, I stayed in a 33sqm Urban Room, which comprised a king-sized bed, a beautifully-appointed bathroom, a living area with a day bed and dining table, and a Juliet balcony with urban views.
Although minimalist in design, the room had everything one would need, and it was clear, like the whole property, everything had been thoughtfully designed and carefully considered. The custom-crafted oak furnishings, marble surfaces and brushed brass accents, along with the Grown Alchemist bath amenities, and custom Venroy linen bathrobes and slippers were particularly luxurious touches. Plus, in the room, and all throughout the property, wi-fi could be accessed and was complimentary.
AMENITIES.
Undoubtedly the centerpiece and piece de resistance of the property is the 28-meter long pool, surrounded by sun lounges shrouded under green and white umbrellas, private chic cabanas, and towering palms. Lying poolside, it's easier to forget you're in the heart of Fortitude Valley and less than ten minutes away from Brisbane's CBD, instead you feel as if you've been transported to Palm Springs or Miami.
Beyond the pool, guests can enjoy the on-site spa, fitness centre, and library.
DINING.
During my stay, I enjoyed breakfast at Hellenika prior to check-out. I sat on one of the bar stools and gazed out at the pool, which at the time was being set-up for a fashion show later that day. I look forward to returning for lunch or dinner sometime in the future - I've heard the zucchini chips are a must-try!
View Hellenika’s breakfast menu and restaurant menu.
WHAT WAS ORDERED:
BACON & EGGS Streaky bacon, olive oil fried eggs with toast.
Situated on the ground floor of The Calile Hotel, SK Steak & Oyster, as its name suggests, is all about top-notch steak and quality, fresh seafood. Beginning the meal with a glass complimentary champagne - a pleasant surprise and the restaurant’s way of welcoming back diners following their reopening - followed by a cocktail titled ‘La La Land’, a delicious and indulgent lobster risotto, and finally concluding the meal with the restaurant’s signature (might add massive) strawberry cake; it was the perfect way to celebrate another university semester coming to an end. Beyond the food, the restaurant’s interior is also stunning, with high ceilings, intimate booths, an open-plan kitchen, an oyster-shucking station, a curved bar, a large open cabinet displaying hanging dry-aged beef and duck, and even a baby grand piano.
WHAT WAS ORDERED:
LOBSTER RISOTTO Southern Tasmanian Rock lobster with crustacean bisque.
SK STRAWBERRY CAKE
LA LA LAND White rum, Maraschino, pineapple and grenadine.
The Lobby Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a pre or post-dinner drink, and an alternative to Hellenika upstairs for breakfast (or lunch or dinner).
View the Lobby Bar’s breakfast menu, lunch menu, and dinner menu.
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