The Inchcolm by Ovolo – Hotel Review

Brisbane’s boutique hotel scene is all the richer for The Inchcolm by Ovolo, a chic property that perfectly mixes the brand’s character with a hit of heritage. Read on for the full review.

In an era of spartan spaces, The Inchcolm is a delightful exception. There are walls plastered in rich, dark florals, couches of tactile velvet and a bar-cum-check-in counter where a display of odds and ends conveys a very clear message to guests: this is no ordinary hotel. If you’re travelling for the purpose of feeling transported, that’s a welcome concept indeed.

Where is The Inchcolm by Ovolo? 

Close to  Brisbane city, just a block from Brisbane Central station and 20 minutes’ drive from Brisbane Airport.

What’s near The Inchcolm by Ovolo?

On the cusp of pretty Spring Hill and its cute colonial cottages, The Inchcolm by Ovolo is on the edge of the CBD — Queen Street Mall is just 850 metres away — and some of Brisbane’s most walkable neighbourhoods. Howard Smith Wharves, a dining precinct with wonderful views of the Brisbane River, is 11 minutes on foot and wider Fortitude Valley, with its excellent cafés and boutique shopping, is an extra four minutes if you fancy a slightly longer stroll.

Room types 

A former office building and hospital, the heritage-listed hotel has plenty of decorative references to the building’s heyday in the compact rooms. From original wall mouldings to deep, Deco-era emerald greens, the interiors don’t shy away from colour or texture, giving rooms a welcoming warmth. The little Ovolo extras are here: a daily Martini hour, where the first drink is on the house, is open to all, as well as high-thread linens, Nespresso machines and Apple TVs.

Restaurants and bars 

The Inchcolm Bar, a salon with the air of a smoke-hazed hangout from a bygone era (but without the smoke!), is the hotel’s on-site eatery. It’s a Martini bar but also a brekkie spot and afternoon-tea lounge, with the atmosphere of the space changing depending on the service time. At dinner, the menu is rich — think ricotta gnocchi with mushroom ragu, or chicken liver parfait with cranberry jam. The Martini list is extensive and, during the hours of 5.30pm-6.30pm, a steal at $12 a glass.

Travel for work

Each room makes space for a full workstation and high-speed wi-fi is included in your room rate. 

What you need to know

You don’t need to go easy on the mini bars - in keeping with Ovolo’s other outposts, the in-room goodies, from beers to sweet treats, are free of charge (depending on the room package you sign up for).

SEE ALSO: The Best Hotels in Brisbane City (For Every Type of Traveller)