Mövenpick Hotel Hobart
Tasmania, Australia
The Tasmanian capital welcomes Swiss-brand Mövenpick to Australia.
When I hear that Hobart’s freshly minted Mövenpick offers on-the-house eclairs, brownies and truffles from 4pm to 5pm daily (aka ‘Chocolate Hour’), my stay is sold. Even better that the treats are dished up when you order a chocolateinspired cocktail. It’s a tasty touch from the brand’s first Australian hotel, and one that nods to its long Swiss heritage, as does the range of specialty Mövenpick ice-creams, available in flavours like tiramisu and espresso croquant. So now that I’m in the door and buzzing from a sugar high, it’s time to check in.
Room design comes courtesy of local crowd Jaws Architects, who were given the task to create light-filled spaces that sing of the surrounds – think walls panelled with Tasmanian timber, striking artwork, earthy hues that resemble the island’s landscape, and richly layered textures throughout, whether in the velvet throw pillows or leather-lined bar area, stocked with snacks from across the state. My suite has space (and style) to spare, with a separate lounging area and enormous wraparound balcony, the only drawback being a lack of outdoor furniture to while away an afternoon on. But it turns out sunset hour is booked up anyway, thanks to the lure of cacao.
The happy hour here is enjoyed in Tesoro Modern Italian restaurant, with its gem-hued banquettes and marble details. The menu features a rollcall of top Tassie farmers, growers and makers, whether Bruny Island Cheese, Cape Grim beef, wild salmon or Imago breads. Chef Trent Whelan has created a ‘Roadtrip’ degustation to reveal the flavours of the state, with or without paired wines. Otherwise, order à la carte dishes like grilled asparagus with black garlic, truffle and poached egg, polenta chips with saffron aioli, or pappardelle loaded with beef brisket and a glug of red wine.
When it comes time to step out, the hotel enjoys a prime position just a few hundred metres from the harbour, which means that after a brisk five-minute walk I’m at Brooke Street Pier ready to sip bubbles in the Posh Pit of the Mona Roma ferry, en route to the city’s lauded Museum of Old and New Art. Hot tip: book lunch or dinner at the gallery’s new restaurant Faro for a dining experience that is as entertaining as it is delicious. Rates start from $219 per room, per night. movenpick.com.