WHERE:
Nestled up against Constitution Dock, the MACq 01 is a great location for discovering Hobart. You can set off on foot to explore the city, or jump on one of the boats that take you to destinations like Bruny Island or Iron Pot – Australia’s oldest lighthouse.
WHY:
The MACq 01 is Australia’s first ‘storytelling’ hotel. Each of the rooms has its own designated ‘character’ – a real-life person from history. Take the ‘114 Doors’ tour around the hotel, hearing about some of the people who helped craft Hobart’s island spirit, all with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. Or join one of the hotel’s Storytellers on a Hidden Hobart tour – fabulous for learning about the history of old Hobart Town and bringing the colonial settlement to life before your eyes.
EAT:
Boasting spectacular water views, the Old Wharf restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner and strives to feature locally sourced ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the Blossom Cup cocktail featuring 7k Distillery Raspberry Gin and Rhubarb Syrup; the flavoursome Baked Pear & Goats Cheese Tart; and the decadent Maltesers Layer Cake – a sinful concoction of dark chocolate sponge, chocolate ganache, Maltesers and malt ice cream. Mmmm….
DRINK:
The Evolve Spirits Bar was jumping on the Sunday night I popped in for a whisky or three. Award-winning local spirits are front and centre at this establishment – named both Australia’s Hotel Bar of the Year and Tasmania’s Cocktail Bar of the Year in 2021. The Story Bar prides itself on its beer and cider offerings, and features live music on Friday and Saturday nights if you’re in the mood to hear some local talent.
5-STAR ACCOMMODATION:
My Premium Waterfront Suite was the crème de la crème of hotel rooms. With its own sizable balcony overlooking the peaceful boats coming and going below, the room was immense, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy a cappuccino from the in-room machine in the lounge area, or perhaps an in-room massage on your king-sized bed. The deep-soaking tub was a treat after a rewarding day spent exploring the city.
WE LIKE:
- The warm and cosy Lounge on the ground floor, with its open fire crafted by a local stonemason, is a hard place to leave but needs must – Hobart awaits!
- The hotel gym is great if you’re wanting to work off some of your culinary indulgences; staff will also organise your own personal trainer if you’d like.
- All communal spaces within the hotel are wheelchair accessible and there are six equal-access rooms and suites.
- The MACq 01 has Tesla Destination Charging for sustainable travellers.
MACq 01 Hotel,
18 Hunter St, Hobart.
macq01.com.au