Burleigh Heads is a beachside suburb that has become a destination for holidaymakers. For almost a decade foodies from near and far have been descending on the Gold Coast suburb thanks to institutions like Rick Shores and Jimmy Wahs and newcomers like Restaurant Labart and Tarte Bakery. But hungry travellers in search of a delicious bite have been limited when it comes to accommodation offerings in Burleigh, with the only options being old-school holiday apartments or holiday home rentals. Until now. 

Credit: Justin Nicholas

Mondrian Gold Coast is Burleigh Heads first hotel and it’s set to transform the suburb. Travellers will finally have a very stylish place where they can rest their heads while exploring the suburb rather than driving down from tourist hot spots like Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach, where most of the big hotel chains reside. 

But Burleigh isn’t just for tourists. It’s also a suburb where locals reside. With that in mind Mondrian Gold Coast has created more than a hotel, it’s a mini luxury precinct of sorts, where you can duck in for coffee, stay for a long lunch or unwind poolside. It’s home to two restaurants and a pool club, all of which are open to guests and the public (more on these later). Here’s everything you need to know about the hottest new hotel opening in Australia. 

The rooms

Mondrian Gold Coast is the hotel chain’s debut property in Australia and is making a very good first impression. The 208-room hotel sits on Burleigh’s beachfront esplanade so the beach is mere steps from the hotel and the hotel takes full advantage of it. Rooms and suites are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows so you have endless opportunities to watch the waves roll in. There are 132 studios, 63 suites and 10 two- and three-bedroom homes, plus two private two- and three-bedroom Beach Houses with plunge pools, and one Sky House on the 24th floor, so you’ll easily find something that fits your needs whether you’re travelling solo or with multiple kids in tow. 

Credit: Justin Nicholas

The design of the hotel by California-based Studio Carter is modern, but welcoming thanks to rich finishes like neutral travertine and red-Sicilian marble bench tops, terracotta coloured boucle armchairs, and light oak furniture. Each room’s neutral tone lets the real star of the show shine: the view. For the best ocean views, opt for any of the room types that are categorised as ‘Ocean’. The backdrop of your stay will be sky and ocean for as far as the eye can see. From sunrise to sunset, you’ll be able to watch as the sunlight dances across the sky. Even if you’re 16 floors up you’ll still be able to hear the waves lapping the shore.  

Those travelling with kids in tow or for an extended stay will appreciate the in-room amenities like a stovetop, washing machine, microwave, pots and pans and full sized fridge all neatly tucked away behind lime-washed cabinets. 

The restaurants 

Mondrian Gold Coast has not only opened the doors to a stunning array of rooms, but also two restaurants: LiTO and Haven. LiTO is the more casual all-day dining offering that sits on the ground floor of the hotel. The front of the restaurant opens up onto the street welcoming those on a morning walk for a coffee or breakfast. In the morning you’ll see guests in their athleisure wear, but come night the space transforms to a more elevated dining space. The menu is Mediterranean inspired and led by Italian-born Head Chef Andrea Morigi and features wood-fired breads, rotisserie chicken and, the best bit, tableside tiramisu. 

Credit: Justin Nicholas

Upscale dining is found on the third floor at Haven. During the day the light-filled space opens up to overlook the pool and promenade. By night, the lights are dimmed and there’s a more intimate atmosphere. Here, seafood reigns supreme, with locally-caught produce the hero of the Executive Chef Aaron Teece’s menu. Must-order dishes include the Hand-picked Spanner Crab and Prawn Cocktail.

The pool club

Conveniently, you don’t need to leave the hotel for a pre- or post-lunch or dinner drink. On level three, a 24-metre resort-style pool is surrounded by lounge chairs, cabanas and tables and chairs, and makes for the perfect spot for a sundowner. Haven Pool Club is an extension of the restaurant that guests and the public can kick-back and relax at with a cocktail in hand. You can also while away the day poolside and order delicious bites to your lounge chair. Refuel with Ballina king prawn hibachi skewers, a Fillet “OH” Fish Sandwich or a Yellowfin Tuna Niçoise Salad. The space also boasts two magnesium-infused plunge pools to assist with muscle recovery, relaxation, and skin hydration for ultimate relaxation. Bliss. 

Standard rates start from $749 per night in a Studio King. For more information, visit mondrianhotels.com/gold-coast

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