Six great city breaks

There are plenty of options if you are looking for a gourmet weekend away in one of Australia’s cities. Here are six of my favourite getaways:

Hadleys Grand Mercure - Hobart
The Tasmanian capital has undergone a metamorphosis over the past decade with an explosion of stylish restaurants, wine bars, delicatessens, patisseries and coffee shops – but visitors are also impressed by the many historic buildings and its rich colonial heritage. One of them is the Hadleys Hotel Grand Mercure. Located in the heart of Hobart city centre, this is Tasmania’s oldest continuously operating boutique hotel and was constructed by convict labour in 1834. This National Trust-listed heritage building has just 71 refurbished and restored rooms, and an on-site restaurant. You can’t be closer to the action as you are surrounded by historic pubs and are just a five-minute walk to the waterfront and lively Salamanca Place. Hobart’s many gourmet attractions are all close by with several boutique wineries within a short drive. The hotel staff are wonderfully helpful and there is a delightful vibe from staying in a place with so much history.
Hadleys Hotel Grand Mercure, 34 Murray Street, Hobart. (03) 6237 2999. www.grandmercurehadleyshotel.com.au.