Nestled in front of the Hobart waterfront overlooking sailboats, waterplanes and the local seabirds creating a glorious symphony of sound every morning, the MACq 01 hotel couldn’t be better situated. 

Open since 2017,  its location, price and modern design is extremely competitive. The MACq 01 holds a luxury calling card, and teamed with warm Tasmanian hospitality, it’s no wonder it has received countless awards for its hospitality and design.

A short walk away from Hobart’s main attractions and city centre, the MACq 01 ensures visitors experience the city in the most convenient way. The luxurious hotel’s location is ideal, even it’s design has ensured the sunset can be seen from rooms each evening, setting nearby Mount Wellington overlooking the city. The world-famous Salamanca market is a 5 minute walk away through the marina, where seafood restaurants and cafes line the port. Conveniently, the ferry to Mona also departs here.

THE ARCHITECTURE

The hotel’s design has been informed by a shipping shed that was once on the site. With Vos Group overseeing construction, Circa Architects worked on the design. Elevating the design to make the most of its location, natural light flows into rooms all day, reflected also off the waterfront at Constitution Dock outside. Natural woods are a focus here – white cypress evident throughout – with the design referencing Tasmania’s timber industry. 

Pike Withers executed the interior design, presenting Tasmania’s history through visual story-telling. A journey through the hotel is required to explore the entirety of the narrative, with the hotel lounge showcasing artefacts and imagery of the Mouheneenner people of Tasmania and their culture. The stories follow through to the restaurant, bar and lobby, where historical references are embedded subtly into the interior design. There is something to be learnt at every corner! 

Rooms are all named after characters and individuals key to Tasmania’s history. From writers, artists, philosophers and explorers, each room has an individual ‘name’. The bedheads of each room, illustrated by Tasmanian artist Troy Ruffels, evoke the character of the Tasmanian landscape and the person for whom the room is named. Curiosity is also encouraged to explore these characters’ lives and contribution to their homeland, also celebrated by MACq 01 with their unique Hidden Hobart Storytelling Tour, a complimentary offering to all guests.

THE ROOMS

Through the design of the building, the hotel’s 114 rooms and suites are split to either overlook the waterfront or an urban view on Hunter Street. More than spacious, room sizes are extremely generous on both sides of the building. The hotel has been designed for luxury clientele in mind (with prices starting at $400 to $1000 per night). We experienced the Superior Waterfront Room, a room double the size of a standard hotel room anywhere else in Hobart, in addition to a balcony overlooking the historic Constitution Dock and waterfront. Waking up to the sounds of water, seabirds and seamen preparing boats for the day’s charters, it was a priceless experience. It’s worth booking this room type well in advance before it books out. 

A palette of earthy, pastel tones has been incorporated into minimal yet considered room designs. Little details such as efficient and convenient placement of charging ports in the bathroom and bedroom, or a light switch circuit accessible by the bedside are what make staying here so easy and pleasurable. Coffee-making facilities, a well-stocked and curated mini bar, and a super widescreen tv (with a great selection of on-demand films) are just some of the room highlights.

HOTEL FACILITIES

At the hotel entrance, a valet welcomes guests and parks vehicles for free. Parking at the front of the hotel has been allocated to guests and is uber-convenient, the only downfall is that Hunter Street rooms with the ‘urban view’ do look out onto part of the carpark (another reason to book the Waterfront View rooms). Catering specifically to the luxury traveller, there is a Tesla charging station also in the carpark (once a thoroughfare for the local train).

The hotel’s gym is basic, but includes the best equipment for an intense workout. Weights, running machines, bicycles, step machines and rowers are all offered – with notice a personal trainer able to be easily arranged for guests by the hotel.

DINING & DRINKS

Breakfast is available for guests at an extra cost, but the convenience is worth it. With the hotel’s Old Wharf Restaurant and The Loungesituated on ground floor, it’s possible to grab a bite at any time, with seating overlooking the waterfront and dock. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Old Wharf Restaurant boasts the best of local produce, fresh and vibrant. The Lounge offers an all-day menu equally well suited to relaxing dockside or fireside. The choice is yours.

The Story bar is open from 3pm until 10pm, serving Tasmanian beer, wine and cocktails with seating inside and outside on the waterfront. Their selection of Tasmania’s best Pinot Noir’s is impressive! The Evolve Spirits Bar comes to life in the evening, with the bar open daily from 4.30pm until late. With multiple distilleries birthed in Tasmania, the bar selection of spirits here is extensive, ingeniously reflected in the mixologists cocktails. 

THE VERDICT

Before guests’ arrivals, a reminder email is sent in addition to a section requesting guest preferences for specific arrival time, dietary requests and any extra-curricular activities they may be seeking or need help arranging. Guest experience is done extremely well here, even before even entering the hotel. 

Continuing throughout one’s stay, MACq 01 pay special attention to visitors presence and requests. What more can you ask for in a luxury hotel?

MACq 01 

18 Hunter Street, Hobart, Tasmania, 7000 Australia

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