Fortitude Valley

Image: Ovolo Rooftop

Story by Mitch Catlin

If I were to pick one word that sums up Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, “eclectic” pretty much hits the mark. This overwhelming feeling of absolute luxury and uber-chic meets saucy and a little bit seedy, makes this popular location like nothing else in Australia.

Once the home of strip clubs and sex shops in the ’70s (a few are still scattered around), the area has been transformed into a hospitality, entertainment and live music mecca, with new boutique hotels seemingly opening all the time. A day out all centres around the popular James Street, which is arguably the best shopping strip in the country, with many Australian-made labels including Bassike and Aesop taking pride of place.

The thing that strikes me most every time I come to Brisbane (which is not often enough) is the rapid growth. With millions of tourists passing through every year, Fortitude Valley is now also home to lots of hip locals, with high-end apartment buildings being built to create cool little communities.

Fortitude Valley is the perfect place to stay to wander around Brisbane. It’s a direct train ride from the airport and a 20-minute walk to some of the “must-sees” across town, from the famed Story Bridge to a wine or beer at Kangaroo Point, or a wander along the Brisbane River at the popular South Bank, which has heaps of cafés and bars, as well as a man-made beach.

Famed chef Andrew McConnell has brought his Asian-fusion eatery Supernormal to Brisbane, while Shane Delia of Maha fame has opened Layla to build on his Middle Eastern empire. Recommended by friends, and now highly recommended by me, is the Greek fine-dining experience of Hellenika, poolside at The Calile Hotel, and the nearby Thai eatery sAME sAME for its famous prawn tacos and coconut curries. Afterwards, head out for a drink at a plethora of stunning bars to enjoy the beautiful climate. Try the Cielo Rooftop, Nok Nok cocktail bar, or the Nixon Room, which is a hidden gem in a backstreet.

It’s best not to fill up on lollies before going out for dinner and drinks (which “Piggy Mitch” did, but I have a good excuse!). The recently renovated Ovolo The Valley has a complimentary candy bar on arrival and available throughout the day. It is heaven (accessibility) and hell (waistline) all in one.

Formerly the iconic Emporium Hotel, this place reminds me of that person you stare at who walks down the street being cool without even trying. Velvet ottomans, a gorilla surrounded by hibiscus plants, unique artwork, modern light installations and plush modern furnishings — the designers have really leaned into the overall feeling on the streets: opulent and fun, but also a little kooky. There are many room styles and some include apartments with dining rooms and old-school record players.

A rooftop pool (with a retractable roof for when it becomes too hot) and bar completes a wonderful stay. With Brisbane set to host the Olympics in just eight years, “The Valley”, as it is affectionately known, will be the gold-medal location for entertainment and hospitality as more venues pop up. Brisbane is the place to be.

Mitch Catlin was a guest of Ovolo The Valley.