Queensland has long been the ultimate holiday destination for girls’ weekends and family getaways.
And with an average of 283 sunny days each year, it’s no surprise Brisbane has provided the backdrop for blockbuster movies like Thor: Ragnnarok and become a go-to destination for royals and celebs.
We spent a day in the Sunshine State’s capital to discover the city’s hotspots and find the perfect setting for a fashion shoot with Robyn Lawley for the The Australian Women’s Weekly‘s December issue.
Along the way we scouted out the best places to shop, eat, drink, stay and play.
Brisbane’s harbour precinct is the city’s cultural, fashion and lifestyle centre.
Located in the heart of the Fortitude Valley, The Calile Hotel offers a hidden oasis complete with poolside cabanas, an authentic in-house Greek restaurant and luxurious day spa.
The idyllic environment has a Miami-esque appeal, making it a must-stay destination for girls’ weekends and quick getaways – cocktail in hand, of course.
Next stop: James Street. Step outside the Calile and you’ll find yourself in the city’s hottest shopping destination, where a mecca of Australian designers and swoon-worthy boutiques awaits.
It is the perfect post-brunch stop – shop the day away or take a stroll down the street towards the river.
This shoot was all about summer: lightweight fabrics and pastel palettes.
Head over to the Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) in South Bank – right near the iconic Brisbane sign – to soak up the gallery’s extensive collection of contemporary art and get a feel for the city’s industrial roots.
The gallery is home to more than 17,000 works of art, by local and international artists.
Expect brilliant colours, contemporary sculptures and interactive installations – a breathtaking collection that is sure to inspire.
The Children’s Art Centre is the ultimate family hub, offering kid-friendly tours that little ones will love.
This December, the entire first floor of the gallery will be transformed into a whimsical world when the ‘Water‘ exhibition opens.
The seasonal showcase will feature both major immersive experiences and visual delights, from William Forsythe’s cloud-like cluster of suspended rings to Peter Fischli and David Weiss’ wondrous snowman, frozen despite the summer heat. It is an ode to the earth’s life source in all its shapes, forms and visualisations – you won’t want to miss it!
Cai Guo-Qiang’s intricate Heritage still-life waterhole is sure to be a family favourite.
After immersing yourself in the QAGOMA experience, head down to Howard Smith Wharves. The area comes alive with breweries and eateries, and offers scenic picnic tables and relaxing riverfront lawns. The Wharves are located on the river below Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge which connects the Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point. It is perfect for happy hour drinks and provides an amazing sunset experience.
Grab a drink or stay and dine after dark at Mr Percival’s, an overwater bar in the heart of the Wharves.
The bar’s Instagram-worthy aesthetic takes golden hour to a whole new level. And with a cocktail in hand, you can’t go wrong.
Hit play on the video above to see stylists Mattie Cronan and Rebecca Rac make their way around Brisbane’s best hotspots in preparation for the December issue’s fashion shoot.
We loved the sun-soaked deck at Mr Percival’s – perfect for our summer afternoons.
Brought to you by Queensland. See what else is happening in Brisbane and discover Queensland’s full calendar of events for 2020.
