Capella Sydney has been named the 2026 Hotel of the Year in the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards.
Housed within Sydney’s meticulously restored former Department of Education building, Gourmet Traveller said Capella Sydney impressed the judges with its blend of heritage architecture, exceptional service, significant Australian art collection and destination dining.
“Its ability to deliver world-class luxury while maintaining a strong sense of place secured the top honour in a year where authenticity emerged as a defining theme,” Gourmet Traveller said.
Byron Bay’s Hotel Marvell took out Best Boutique Hotel. The judges praised its understated “tropical brutalist” aesthetic, relaxed social spaces and rooftop bar, positioning it as a sophisticated alternative in a market often defined by backpacker culture and influencer-driven tourism.
Chef Giovanni Pilu's new Italian restaurant overlooking Sydney Harbour, Flaminia—located within Pullman Quay Grand—won Best Hotel Dining.
This year, three categories were awarded by popular vote in the Readers’ Choice awards: Qantas was overwhelmingly chosen by Gourmet Traveller readers as Best Airline, Sofitel was the winner of Best Hotel Brand and the Australian start-up Luxury Escapes was awarded Best Tour Operator.
View all the winners here.
