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It’s been a big 12 months for Sydney’s hotels, with the Harbour City laying claim to five of the top ten hotels in Australia (according to the prestigious Travel and Leisure hotel awards), and Capella Sydney claiming second place in Condé Nast’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards, and one of just two Aussie spots on the World’s 50 Best Hotels list. Now, the hotel aficionados at Condé Nast have dropped their Gold List for 2026, and one beloved Sydney hotel made the cut.
RELATED READ: Here’s our pick of the top luxury hotels in Sydney
Now in its 32nd year, the Gold List celebrates the most extraordinary hotels and resorts around the world. Chosen by Condé Nast Traveller’s editors for reasons ranging from flawless service and striking design to five-star meals, every property has one thing in common: it does it better than anyone else.
The only Oceania hotel featured on the list – and our pick of Australia’s best luxury stay – is the Park Hyatt Sydney. For 35 years, this elegant harbourfront residence has played host to some of the world’s biggest celebs and leaders – and it’s easy to see why.
The crown jewel of the Park Hyatt is its breathtaking Sydney Harbour views, with the top-tier suites offering front-row views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. We also highly rate the heated rooftop pool and spa, along with its one-hatted restaurant, The Dining Room by James Viles.
The second Australian property spotlighted on The Gold List 2026 is El Questro Homestead – a cattle station turned luxury retreat in the Kimberley, Western Australia’s northernmost region. Open only from April to mid-October, this clifftop escape welcomes just 20 guests at a time. Guests can sink into feather-topped beds, soak in double deluxe baths and enjoy daily gourmet meals paired with the finest local beverages. Plus, adventure is all around you, with curated experiences including river cruises, four-wheel-drive safaris and helicopter tours to remote waterfalls and hot springs. Sounds pretty good, hey?
For more inspo, you can check out Condé Nast Traveller’s Gold List 2026 here.
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