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The highly anticipated opening of Crystalbrook Collection Hotels & Resorts’ first South Australian hotel, Sam, is nearly upon us as the hotel opens up bookings, ahead of an expected opening in late December.
Situated in the heart of the city on Halifax Street, the 196-room luxury hotel is set to be Adelaide’s newest spot to not only stay, but dine and spend time.
Kelvin Dodt, General Manager of Crystalbrook Sam, said guest will be get a great glimpse of the Adelaide lifestyle from within the hotel wlls.
“From spa afternoons and long lunches to a glass of wine downstairs or dinner with views across the city,” Kelvin said.
Step outside and the neighbouring laneways, Adelaide Central Market, festival precincts and galleries are all just around the corner.
“You can come for a long lunch, meet friends for a drink, spend an afternoon at the spa or simply settle into a corner with a book. We want Sam to feel like it belongs to Adelaide, rather than simply being located in Adelaide.”
One of the hotel’s more exciting offerings is the 120-seat rooftop restaurant, Matines, which has a strong focus on South Australian produce cooked over fire.
Think local oysters and coastal favourites, generous plates and martinis served alongside views across the city and towards the Adelaide Hills. It’s not just for hotel guests, with locals also welcome to enjoy the views and food.
“Ultimately, we want Matines to become one of those places Adelaide locals choose because they enjoy being there, not simply because it happens to be on top of a hotel.”
At street level, Café Sami will offer a relaxed space for morning coffees, afternoon wines and evening drinks. For those seeking a quieter moment, a tucked-away library nook provides a cosy corner to settle in with a book or simply unwind.
“We’ve intentionally made it flexible and welcoming rather than giving it one very specific purpose. Some people might come in for a coffee and end up staying for a drink; others might meet there before heading out for dinner.”
For a little relaxation and rejuvenation, Eléme Day Spa will offer massages and facials, complemented by the hotel’s heated outdoor pool, sauna and even a fully equipped gym.
Throughout the rooms, the design takes cues from South Australia’s coastline through soft tones, natural textures and diffused light.
The suites offer deep-soak baths, double vanities, showers with body jets and separate living areas, as well as a mobile cocktail and aperitivo cart for guests who prefer to enjoy a drink in the comfort of their room.
Designed by South Australian practice PACT Architects and constructed by BESIX Watpac, the hotel has taken inspiration from its Halifax Street setting, with nearby sawtooth rooflines influencing the building’s sculptural form.
Inside, a locally driven art programme will showcase works by South Australian sculptors and makers throughout the property, from the lobby and corridors to the guest rooms, wellness and dining spaces.
“What I’m most proud of is how strongly the hotel reflects its sense of place. We’ve worked with South Australian architects, artists, makers and producers, and you can see that local influence right throughout the property.”
Accommodation will range from king and twin rooms to interconnecting family rooms and suites of up to 78 square metres, with opening rates starting from $275 per night.
Reservations are now open ahead of the hotel’s planned late December 2026 opening, with a special ‘Sam’s Warm Welcome’ package available for direct bookings made before 17 December 2026.
Crystalbrook Sam
When: expected late December
Where: 15 Halifax Street, Adelaide
For more, click here.
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