An Ode to… Ode.
What’s in a name?
An ode is poetry. It’s lyrics, rhyme or eloquent verse that celebrates and reveres people, places and pleasures. It’s timeless.
And it’s time to celebrate the new.
So this, an ode to us, is the first in a series of musings that cut straight to the heart of the talented people and rich communities that make the Ode experience.
It’s just another way we’re reimagining heritage for the future. A little less lyrical, a lot more relatable. And full of treasures that will inspire their way into your itineraries.
An ode to us.
Our jewel in the Sydney Harbour crown.
The historic location of Harbour Rocks was the garden of the first Sydney hospital, and later the Evans’ Stores built in 1887.
“The hotel has lived many lives,” says Hotel Manager Chris Greening, “it has so many stories from years spent perched on the harbour.”
Set in what has become a once-in-a-lifetime destination for travellers, the hotel is a many-a-golden-hour-time destination for locals. Striking the balance between a stay to remember and a neighbourhood spot to frequent is never an easy one. But with the right amount of charm and the perfect happy hour wines served at Eric’s Bar & Garden Terrace, we think we’ve captured it.
The vibrant harbourfront curates a diverse experience year-round. Visit for the weekly Rocks markets filled with eats, beats and eclectic art, or be captivated by annual events like VIVID Sydney or the iconic New Years Eve celebrations.
“We’re lucky to be in the perfect spot to enjoy the best Sydney has to offer. We encourage guests to take the walk to Barangaroo, visit Mrs Macquarie’s Chair or stroll around the Botanic Gardens,” says Chris.
History meets luxury in our harbourfront home. The building will take you on a journey through time, and the food will take you on a culinary journey through cultures- from our Middle Eastern inspired Restaurant and Bar to Parisian creperie.
“A salty stack of haloumi from Tayim or a traditional crȇpe from Creperie Suzette make perfect fuel for exploring.”
And take a seat in the Garden Terrace for a signature cocktail where you’ll be joined by locals, visitors and according to folklore the resident ghost, Eric, who lends his name to the bar. Said to be the spirit of a seafarer merchant searching for his late lover, sightings of Eric are among many curious experiences reported by guests.
In a building with this much character, it’s no surprise that you might meet a few otherworldly characters while you’re here…
Historic charm, modern luxury.
With more than a dozen galleries and the Capitol Theatre on our doorstep, The Old Clare is a clever juxtaposition of heritage meets new that reflects the creativity of vibrant Chippendale.
Once home to the Clare Hotel pub and the Carlton & United Breweries HQ, the hotel is a time capsule of a beloved watering hole featuring just the right amount of nostalgia presented among modern-day luxury. Architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer restored the listed buildings, and kept original features while infusing contemporary elegance.
It’s the bold, stylish choice to enjoy Sydney calendar highlights like The Sydney Fringe and Writers festivals, Biennale of Sydney and South by SouthWest. And a destination in its own right for local haunts like Carriageworks.
“Carriageworks Farmers’ Market has the freshest local produce, it’s a Chippendale institution. And the contemporary Chinese art at White Rabbit Gallery is a must see” says Hotel Manager Joel Gordon, “then you can’t beat our own Clare Bar for a local pub experience. It’s got the charm of a classic watering hole paired with a cool city hangout.”
And there’s no better way to finish a day of exploring than alfresco evening drinks at The Rooftop Bar, our thriving heart of the local community that’s a welcoming ode to its humble beginnings.
Just what the doctor prescribed…
Brisbane and history might not be two things you’d normally pair together. But the Georgian decor of Inchcolm offers a luxe meets homely welcome that transports you back to the 1930’s, and offers a rare glimpse into the heritage of the Queensland capital.
Before becoming a hotel, the building was a private hospital and originally built as Brisbane’s first clinic by Dr John Thomson. His wife was credited with bringing the martini to Australia, and so the Inchcolm martini bar was created as a homage to times when cocktails were clinically endorsed.
“The most loved is our cucumber rose martini,” says Hotel Manager Mark Greenan, “and it’s often enjoyed before oysters or gnocchi in the INCH Restaurant, our French bistro style eatery.”
Visitors are often drawn in by major city moments like the Brisbane Festival or State of Origin, but it’s the local gems that make Inchcolm feel like a home from home.
“You can’t beat a visit to Howard Smith Wharves on the riverfront. It’s just a 15 minute walk from the hotel and features some of the best bars and restaurants in the city.”
The Inchcolm is a curious retreat with intoxicating tales of times gone by. Set in bustling and leafy Spring Hill perched above Brisbane CBD, it’s a local love with worldly charm.
Stories to tell
With such rich heritage, our boutique collection of hotels take the stories of yesterday and reimagine them for the visitors of tomorrow. Each creates the chance to explore local neighbourhoods and eclectic communities with a curious mind.
Take the time to travel, and you’ll be rewarded with a little time travel.
Consider this an ode to us, but even more to what you might discover.