Palm Springs with a Splash of Miami Nice
It doesn’t get much better than Brisbane beautiful one day, perfect the next at the Calile, effuses Helen Flanagan with a big sigh.
 
First impressions do count at Australia’s first urban resort.
 
Described by the architects as “gentle brutalism” the Calile captures the essence of Fortitude Valley’s gentrified leafy James Street while the white brick, curvaceous lines and breezy theme embrace the tropical vernacular, with a nod to Palm Springs, Rio De Janeiro, Miami and Mexico City.
All rooms and suites surround an elevated, central pool with potted olive trees, hanging gardens, sun lounges and cabanas where PYTs celebrate with champagne and veal dolmades. More serious diners choose to sit indoors at the award-winning, flagship Greek Hellenika by Simon Gloftis, also poolside watching the nubile apply sunscreen before soaking up the stray rays. 
Sensational zucchini chips, flash-fried calamari, Junee lamb, moussaka and Greek salad with stunning sun-kissed Noosa Reds, have been contemporised and if you’re a Margarita lover don’t be misled by a Parmarita with its rim of fire.
Once sated, it’s time to pick up a key from gorgeous looking staff in stylish Bassike-designed Italian cotton shirts and linen chinos and satisfy curiosity with a peek at the room. Yes, got to love sleeping under the stars, that’s 5-stars with a sprinkling of Calile-style magic.
Large rounded balcony, polished concrete, pastel-hued, custom linen robes, cork floors and sisal matting giving way to marble bathroom finishes, a day bed and dining table, Grown Alchemist bath amenities, a locally sourced mini bar including cocktails, a basket of munchies such as red frogs, choc covered pretzels and piranha snaps, motorised blackout blinds plus UHD television with Chromecast and sound bar. Oh, and the beds are just the best.
The relaxed, light-filled sophisticated air of the Lobby Bar beckons. Easy to see why it’s the trendiest magnet on James Street. A contemporary menu offering breakfast, dining, cocktails and everything in between as well as a considered wine list showcasing Australia’s best and recognising the great viticulture regions of the world.
Time for a classic Margarita and a salute to Brisbane’s well-known Malouf family especially patriarch Calile (formerly spelt Khalil) Malouf who arrived in Australia four generations ago. The legacy lives on today with the Calile hotel and its surrounding development.

The crescendo of fabulosity has reached its peak.
 
… love sleeping under the stars, that’s 5-stars with a sprinkling of Calile-style magic
 
Stay and Play
The Calile (pronounced Kal-Isle) is in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley There are 175 generous guest rooms, including nine suites and two premier suites, featuring a mix of individual Juliette, poolside and terrace-style balconies plus two private rooftop terraces.
Visit www.thecalilehotel.com and subscribe to exclusive hotel offers, upcoming events and the latest news from Brisbane's design and fashion precinct direct to your inbox. Tel +617 3607 5888  email: reservations@thecalilehotel.com or if you’re in Brisbane pop in for drinks, breakfast, lunch and dinner at 48 James Street Fortitude Valley.
 
Words: Helen Flanagan
Images: As supplied