The Inchcolm by Ode Hotels

You know, I’ve walked past The Inchcolm probably a dozen times over the years – it’s right there on Wickham Terrace where you can’t miss it – but I never really paid attention until I actually stayed there last month. Honestly, it’s one of those places that looks impressive from the outside but you wonder if it’ll live up to the hype once you’re inside. Well, it does.

The thing about this spot is the location is actually perfect if you know Brisbane at all. I mean, Spring Hill might sound like it’s out in the suburbs, but you’re literally a five-minute walk down to the CBD, and – here’s what most people don’t realize – you’re right next to all the medical precinct stuff, so it’s dead quiet at night but buzzing during the day. The building itself has this sort of heritage feel (I think it used to be something else years ago), and they’ve done this really clever thing where the lobby feels grand but not stuffy. Check-in was smooth, though I’d recommend avoiding the 3-4pm rush when all the business travelers descend.

What really got me was the attention to detail in the rooms. The beds are honestly some of the most comfortable I’ve slept in – and I’m someone who usually tosses and turns the first night anywhere new. There’s this amazing view of the city from most rooms, especially if you’re facing southeast, and you can actually see the Story Bridge lit up at night. The bathroom situation is solid too, proper rainfall shower and they don’t skimp on the toiletries. One small thing – the air conditioning can be a bit loud when it kicks in, but it’s not a dealbreaker. What I loved was how they’ve managed to make it feel boutique-y without being pretentious, you know? Like, there’s local artwork throughout but it’s not trying too hard to be “Brisbane-themed.”

The staff genuinely seem to know what they’re doing, which isn’t always a given even at five-star places. They pointed me toward this little coffee spot around the corner that I never would’ve found otherwise, and when I mentioned I was heading to South Bank, they actually drew me a map showing the quickest walking route (spoiler: it’s not the obvious one). Parking is valet only, which’ll run you about $35 a night, but honestly it’s worth it because street parking around there is a nightmare. I’d definitely stay here again, especially if I’m in town for work stuff – the business center is actually useful, and the whole vibe is calm enough that you can get things done but interesting enough that you don’t feel like you’re stuck in some corporate hotel bubble.