Brisbane is known for its chill, relaxed atmosphere, but more importantly, it is often referred to as the “big country town” of Australia. When you explore the most biodiverse state in the country, it is the people who leave the biggest impression. Our humble yet impressive city now stands confidently among the world’s best for dining and tourism experiences.
What’s unique about Brisbane, beyond being the birthplace of the iconic lamington, is that you are not just seeing a city, you are stepping into nature. From the stunning mountainside waterfalls of Springbrook National Park to Moreton Bay oyster farms just 45 minutes from the CBD, and award-winning distilleries nestled in the Tamborine Mountain ranges, Brisbane is truly a gateway to it all.
As a concierge, I do not just unlock my city, I unlock all that Queensland has to offer.
A unique place to begin your Brisbane adventure is with a walk along the iconic Kangaroo Point Cliffs. It is the perfect starting point, offering breathtaking views and a touch of local history. Along the way, you will encounter the famous 102-step staircase, a training ground for elite athletes and connected to many global sporting events.
One little-known fact is that the cliffs were once part of a quarry, and the stone was used as ballast on ships bound for Sydney. Rumour has it that over 700,000 tonnes of Kangaroo Point now lie at the bottom of Sydney Harbour.
Above is a photo of the cliffs, featured in an artwork on display at the Queensland Art Gallery, a powerful tribute to Brisbane’s evolving and diverse landscape.
Kangaroo Point now plays host to Riverlife Adventure Centre, offering kayaking, abseiling and rock climbing along this stunning, heritage-listed area.
Your journey soon winds its way to the iconic Howard Smith Wharves precinct, which is the perfect introduction to Brisbane’s laid-back lifestyle and vibrant food scene.
At Felons Brewery, the kids can run around freely while you enjoy incredible wood-fired pizza, which of course tastes even better with one of the best views in Brisbane. You cannot go past the Queensland Lager, which has quickly become a local favourite.
To finish with a truly special treat.
The Story Bridge Adventure Climb takes your day to new heights. Personally, catching golden hour on the twilight climb is unbeatable. During the steady ascent, you will enjoy a curated storytelling experience that explores the rich history of everything your eyes can see.
For a truly memorable finale, the “Toast at the Top” experience allows you to celebrate with a cold Australian brew, 80 metres above the Brisbane River.
This is not a city that tries to impress. It simply does. From nature to culture, history to hospitality, it invites you to belong, even if just for a moment. And as you descend from the bridge with a full glass and an even fuller sense of place, one thing becomes clear. Brisbane is not just somewhere you visit. It is somewhere you feel, long after you have left.
Jimmy Barker is a member of Les Clefs d’Or Australia. This article has been published in its original form.
Oceania Culture Australia Fine Dining Hotel Nature Food Gastronomy Brisbane Oyster farm
From a young age, my grandfather shared his tales of travel around the world. He would speak of guardians of service who held the keys to the city.
Through his journeys, he spoke of these heroes, protectors of modern-day hospitality, and what they could achieve through service and friendship.
It was to my amazement that, at fifteen, on a family holiday, after venturing into The Savoy Hotel in London, I had the opportunity to meet one of these individuals. Standing tall, yet humble, with those golden keys glistening.
How rare it was to be fifteen and already know what I wanted to become. This brief but impactful moment guided me for many years, with my dream coming true eight years later when I was awarded the title of the youngest Les Clefs d’Or Concierge in Australian history.
Now, having the opportunity to create everlasting memories and empower my team to share all that our city has to offer, however brief the time we have with these travellers, this is what motivates me.
How honoured I am to be a part of this craft tasked with driving the tourism of my country. I am proud to say this is my calling.
In a category of clones, we’re fiercely independent in our pursuit of delivering a luxury hotel experience that is as effortless for our guests as it is invigorating.
In order to curate the world's finest furnishings, food styles, wines, cocktails and wellness treatments into a single location, we designed a completely bespoke, boutique hotel. Customised to the millimetre, what could be sensory overload, is the perfect blend of elegance and energy. From our captivating foyer to rooftop oasis, no stone is left unturned so that you can relax and revel in every moment.
Where some destinations promise an escape from routine, our goal is to deliver experiences that help you rethink your reality. A side of Brisbane you didn’t know existed with tastes and experiences that once experienced with us you’ll seek out for years to come.
Rekindle your curiosity if only for one night, or a night out.
Exquisite experiences & enriching stays. Emporium Hotel. Stay Curious.
+61 7 3556 3333
Linked In
Facebook
Twitter
