Elysium Hotel Noosa: Australian Reimagining of Everglades Luxury

This week, Elysium Hotel transformed from a dated 1980s property into a modern luxury destination, joining the MGallery Collection. Located in Noosa, on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, the hotel boasts a singular position. It overlooks the Noosa River and one of the world’s two everglade systems, with views extending to the wetlands and Cooroy Mountain. The Independent (US) notes its prime location, backing onto Hastings Street and just a five-minute walk from Noosa Main Beach.

Noosa itself is a magnet for both Australian and international visitors, known for its pristine white-sand beaches, perfect for swimming and surfing. The Noosa National Park, with its abundant walking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting, is also a short stroll away. According to The Independent (US), convenient transportation options include a 30-minute drive from Sunshine Coast Airport or a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Brisbane. The hotel’s proximity to a ferry terminal offers easy access to explore the marina and Noosaville.

While The Independent (US) observes the exterior retains some of its original 1980s character, the interiors of Elysium Hotel have been thoroughly reimagined. They now exude a coastal boutique ambiance, infused with European and Art Deco elements. The property's focal point is a large outdoor pool, complemented by sun loungers, striped umbrellas, and a private cabana. A sunken, swim-up bar serves frozen cocktails.

The bright, airy lobby welcomes guests with hanging light fixtures, rattan furniture, and terracotta accents. The hotel’s restaurant, Cibaria, and its Bar Capri channel a Mediterranean aesthetic with mosaic floors, sunset-hued tiling, and curved sofas, making them instant hotspots on Hastings Street for locals and tourists alike, as reported by The Independent (US).

Our take: Elysium Hotel's strategic location — combining proximity to a rare natural wonder with access to Noosa's vibrant town life and white-sand beaches — sets it apart. The design decisions, blending a relaxed coastal feel with subtle European sophistication, suggest a property catering to those who appreciate understated luxury and a strong sense of place. While the exterior might hint at its past, the interior transformation and unique setting position Elysium as a compelling choice for discerning travelers.