Tuesday, 14 February 12.56am
Lists » Andrea Tomaz »

Fireplace Hotties


Sure, wearing woollies and sipping vodka can help you warm up this winter. But an even better way is to sip your vodka in front of a glowing fireplace (and offload those damn woollies altogether). Here are some of the best pubs and bars to drop into as soon as the temperature plummets. They've all got beautiful fireplaces and the staff are not afraid to use them. Fireside lounging is a great way to keep the winter chills at bay. Burn baby burn!

1
 
The Old Exchange
Adelaide
This relative newcomer to the Adelaide scene has a fireplace that's imposing, posh and very ornate. You can almost picture actor Hugh Grant sidling up beside it while starring in some grand period drama and sipping a cognac which has been resting on its mantlepiece.... but enough daydreaming. You probably won't really see Hugh Grant here, but hey, you can definitely thaw out your fingers and keep them warm all night while you party.

2
 
Crown & Sceptre Hotel
Adelaide
An institution in Adelaide, this place is bound to keep you feeling toasty on the inside. Three log fires blaze throughout winter. The top-shelf alcohol behind the bar is equally fiery.

3
 
Bridie O'Reilly's, Brunswick
Brunswick
The Irish know a fair bit about how to deal with freezing weather, so it's unsurprising to find that this boozer has perfected its cosy look. There are three gas fireplaces to sleuth out and and schmooze around.

4
 
Astra Lodge Vodka Bar
Falls Creek
Skiing or snowboarding at Falls Creek? Feeling as cold as a ice block? Take a break here. Astra Lodge has schnapps, leather couches and a crackling open fire. Ahh!

5
 
Light Brigade Hotel
Woollahra
They look like real logs, but they're actually faux. Nevermind. The heat is real, and that's the main thing. The Light Brigade cranks its gas fireplace up as soon as the mercury falls. If you're looking for a fireplace-hopping pub crawl, pop into the nearby Lord Dudley as well. It's all in the neighbourhood!

6
 
Bavarian Bier Cafe Manly Wharf
Manly
The Baviarian Bier Cafe at Manly is often thought of as a summertime destination, but the truth is that it's got its winter vibe sorted as well. The fireplace here is suitably grand and imposing. Grab your mates, gather around with some steins of German ale, chat away and watch those faux logs burn. The chalet-style decor gives this venue plenty of winter warm-up cred.

7
 
Zeta Bar
Sydney
Swished up by New York uber-designer Tony Chi, this bar features a luxe, oversized gas fireplace that burns behind a glass veneer. Find a cosy perching spot and settle in for some elaborate cocktails. If you decide to venture out onto the open-air terrace, the heat lamps will pick up the slack and maintain your comfort.